Stuart A. Sauer
Beth El President

Congregation Beth El is celebrating 100 years of serving the South Jersey Jewish community. I am honored and proud to help lead our synagogue into the next century as the incoming president. For generations, our clergy, teachers, leaders, and volunteers have inspired and touched so many families. Our Jewish identity, religious observance, learning, and inclusion is the heart and soul of our great synagogue. I look forward to being a part of Congregation Beth El’s leadership as it continues to grow, thrive, and evolve for many years to come.

One of the many ways Congregation Beth El is moving forward is the creation of Sulam For Strategic Planners (SSP). Through a series of congregational surveys, community conversations and committee meetings, we are ready to move forward in presenting this strategy. Parts of the plan to enhance our operations include Finance, Learning, Membership, Tzedek, Volunteer Engagement, and Communications. The congregation’s participation and involvement in this endeavor is key to the success of this project. Please stay tuned for future updates as we begin to implement this ambitious and workable program.

One year ago, no one ever imagined we would need to lock down the building to our members. Yet, we were able to pivot from in-person connections with our families, clergy, and staff to a virtual world. A credit to the leadership in the ever-evolving challenges as we strive to overcome the pandemic. Our synagogue has done an exceptional job keeping our community connected. As we move forward, we are beginning to see a pathway out of this pandemic and a return to completely opening our doors once again.

My sincerest thanks to Karen Schlessel, our outgoing president. Karen has display tremendous strength, courage, and kindness during the last 2 years. Her role as president has inspired me to continue the vision and energy to ensure our congregation’s ongoing progress and resilience. To the incoming Executive Committee and Board of Trustees, I look forward to working together as we begin our new leadership roles. Thank you to Rabbi Krupnick, Hazzan Pomerantz-Boro, Rabbi Green, Josh Laster, Rabbi Marshall, Ayelet Mittelman, Stacy Manning and the entire staff for your support and efforts. We are fortunate to have such a talented team of professionals. Most important, thank you to our members for your ongoing commitment and generosity that helps make our synagogue a warm and welcoming community. We belong together as we move forward to ensure a bright and productive future. Stay safe, healthy, and Zei Gesunt, Be Well!