The Beginning of Summer

As the year winds down, I am drawn to looking forward and backward. Over the past couple of weeks, I have looked backward and have reflected on what TBM has accomplished this year. But, as the summer begins, it is time to look forward. Ecclesiastes asks, "who can tell him what the future holds?" Indeed, that is true. We have no idea if our ideas will work but, to paraphrase Ecclesiastes, 'who cares?!' If we do not plan, we go nowhere. And so, our plans are in the works for next year. Here is what we have planned:

i) renovation of the Religious School wing - Phase I
ii) continued Talmud and Theology course and other learning opportunities
iii) Intro to Judaism/B'nai Mitzvah/Conversion course
iv) continued active affiliates with even more frequent programs
v) professionally managed outreach to non-members
vi) new 'branding' for the temple to solidify our identity
vii) professionally designed website
viii) trip to Israel, March 2010
ix) training clinic for service leaders
x) training clinic for young songleaders
xi) continued growth of the religious school

This is a big agenda and there are lots of steps before we get from here to there. But there is no doubt in my mind that we will make it and create in our temple a place that is truly extraordinary.

I better eat my Wheaties!