News from Kol Ami

on Thursday, 28 May 2015.

I have been honoured to serve as Kol Ami's President for the past two years and wanted to take a moment to express what has most stood out for me during that time.
In my first year as President, I had the honour of representing Kol Ami at the URJ Biennial in San Diego. To say it was a great experience would be a gross understatement. It was transformative, uplifting, motivating and spiritually inspiring all at the same time. What I learned about the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) and all they had to offer our congregation was of incredible value.

That Biennial stressed relational Judaism – making connections with those in our community. It is, however, a journey and not a sudden transformation. It starts with a simple act of kindness by being welcoming to each of our members and those that are just visiting. This past Shabbat I met someone that is not a member and is "just trying us on for size". At first she was very nervous to speak to me as she wasn't sure she was allowed to be there as a non-member. When I welcomed her and her daughter with open arms, her face broke out into a grand smile as she expressed her appreciation for the welcoming she received. Well, I know there are many in our community that always do the same, and indeed we are well on the way to achieving the concepts of relational Judaism by continuing to be a warm and welcoming congregation. It is each and every member of our congregation that makes a difference in making us the warmest congregation in York Region.

My second year as President was a difficult one for me on a personal level which caused me to take a few months away from the Board. During the past year, I learned a lot about the strength of our community. It was difficult for me to step back as I felt that I was letting everyone down, but then the friends and colleagues I have made at Kol Ami helped me see differently.

It started with the members of the Executive committee who were ready to step in and do whatever was needed so that I could focus on my personal life. I cannot say enough about how proud I am of this Executive. They not only took on their own duties as board members, they took over many of the functions that I as President would normally do. I want to personally thank Mark Wolpert, Craig Wolkof, Aviv Haras and Nicole Arnold whose passion for our community helped us to continue to drive programs such as the Torah restoration and many other programs. Their commitment to Kol Ami and the character of each of them makes me feel that Kol Ami will continue to have a bright future.

At the end of June, Mark Wolpert will be taking the role of President of our congregation. I have been honoured to have such a great 1st Vice President and know that I leave the Board, and Kol Ami, in great hands.

As I close, I want to stress once more, that our community is great because of each and every member. Our community thrives when all our members pull together to help with and participate in programs, and provide financial support to allow us to continue to bring amazing speakers and full services to our congregation. So come out, get involved and learn just how amazing our community is, just like I have learned.

L' Shalom
Tal Schierau