What an inspiring MLK Weekend shared between Temple Beth-El and Antioch Missionary Baptist Church. For the 11th year of our beloved pulpit swap, we had the honor of welcoming Rev. Mignon Jones-Spann to Temple Beth-El on Friday evening, followed by Rabbi Mara Nathan preaching at Antioch on Sunday morning. From powerful sermons to shared meals, we’re grateful for a weekend grounded in Dr. King’s vision of community, connection, and collective hope. Read Rabbi Nathan's Antioch S

As we welcome 2026, I’ve been thinking a lot about one simple, powerful word: mensch. A mensch isn’t someone who does everything, or gives all that they have. A mensch is someone who lives with intention. Someone who notices. Someone who understands that community isn’t something you consume — it’s something you help create. So as we begin a new year together, I want to invite you into a gentle challenge: How will you be a mensch at Temple Beth-El this year? Here are just a f

As the year comes to a close, I’ve been reflecting on what a privilege it is to serve Temple Beth-El.  As Executive Director, I hold a unique vantage point on Temple life. I see the full mosaic of our community—often behind the scenes—in ways that differ from our clergy, staff, volunteers, and members.  I see the quiet moments before High Holy Day services begin. I watch new families step into our beautiful Wulfe Sanctuary for the first time. I witness the joyful chaos of cel

With Thanksgiving approaching—a very “Jew-ish” holiday—I find myself reflecting on gratitude, a value embedded deeply in our shared Jewish identity. In Hebrew, you can’t spell Yehudi (Jew) without hoda’ah (gratitude). Jewish tradition teaches that blessing and gratitude are inseparable; as the poet and philosopher Judah HaLevi taught, through our prayers and blessings we keep God present in our hearts. In this way, our blessings become our Jewish “grati-tunes,” expressions of

" Last year, while parked on the banks of the Pecos River north of Santa Fe, my trusty 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee sprung a leak. The dashboard stated Emergency! Get to a dealership immediately. Air Suspension System leaking! I was 700 miles from home so I did what anybody would. I pushed down on the hood, the car bounced up and down, and the suspension system was working. So, I drove it home.  The Dealer’s estimate for repair was over $7,000 with no guarantee the repair would f

This year’s High Holy Days at Temple Beth-El were filled with meaning, music, and community. From the soulful melodies of Rosh Hashanah...

And let them make Me a sanctuary that I may dwell among them. - Exodus 25:8​ God speaks these words to Moses as the Israelites plan to construct the Mishkan or Tabernacle- the portable sanctuary that they will take with them during their 40 years of wandering in the wilderness. The Hebrew phrase v’shachanti b’tocham, is generally translated as “that I may dwell among them.” However, b’tocham can also be translated as “within them.” The 19th century Russian Torah scholar, the

In the classic story Stone Soup , a hungry traveler begins making soup with just a stone, sparking the curiosity of villagers who each decide to add their own ingredients. Together, they create a hearty meal and discover the power of sharing and community.  ​ The story of Stone Soup beautifully reflects the spirit of beginning a new religious school year, through a Jewish lens. In the tale, each person brings a small offering, and together they create something greater than

Justice is at risk. Access to the truth is growing increasingly demanding and many of us feel fragile in today's troubling climate. Yet, Temple Beth-El stands strong and continues to be here - for you and everyone who needs us. ​ For over 150 years, and from generation to generation, our congregation has consistently answered the call to pursue justice. Our rabbinic and lay leaders have taken bold stances on issues like civil and workers' rights, as well as their collaboratio

Choosing membership at Temple is an intentional act of belonging. It’s a commitment to a place, to a people - and a purpose. When I deliver a membership report to our Board of Trustees, I do so with immense pride—because our new members are living out the intentions and values that brought them here.  ​ They’re enrolling in Beit Midrash, attending Shabbat services, volunteering, studying Torah, building friendships—and becoming the friend someone else was hoping to find.​ Thi