Welcome from Rabbi Laurie Zimmerman
I came to Shaarei Shamayim just out of rabbinical school in 2003. It's hard to believe that twenty years have passed. In that time the congregation has grown from 70 to 200 households. This year we expect 50 students to enroll in Gesher, our children's education program, this year and another 15 3-4 year-olds in our Kesher program. We have grown not only in numbers, but in our sophistication, creativity, and ability to meet our members' diverse needs. It is an exciting time to be part of Shaarei Shamayim!
I have made my home at Shaarei Shamayim. The congregation threw a party for my partner, Renee, and I when we got married. Members celebrated with us when we welcomed two children into our family. They mourned with me when my father died. We celebrated the bnei mitzvah of both of our daughters in the past few years. We have stayed so long because we love the people who are part of this congregation.
If you are new to our community or just visiting, welcome. We invite you to get involved: attend a service, join us for a meal, check out a havurah (fellowship group), or celebrate a holiday with us. We hope that you will make Shaarei Shamayim your home.
Wishing you a shanah tovah -- a sweet, healthy, and meaningful new year.
Rabbi Laurie