For Rick and Janine’s family, there is nothing quite like the magic of Family Havdalah with Temple Emanu-El’s Religious School. During Havdalah, the hustle of the morning trek to Religious School disappears. The bustle of the week dissipates. The melodies of Havdalah and the burning of the Havdalah candle provide a special moment to be together.
“It’s super nice to have those 15 minutes together and have that routine established for our sons,” Janine said. “It’s always worth it once we are there.”
Rick and Janine joined Temple Emanu-El in search of a religious and spiritual home for their family. Since joining, they have discovered a community that has welcomed their family with open arms.
“I converted 11 years ago. I wanted somewhere that I felt was accepting and warm and welcoming,” Janine said. “We have come across all different types of families. I have never felt as a convert I was not Jewish enough or that I felt different. I always felt totally accepted regardless of my background.”
Janine and Rick’s sons, Ethan and Nathan, ages 6 and 8, are students in the Religious School. When the family walks by the synagogue as part of their daily routine, the boys are always excited to pass by.
“They are proud members,” Rick said. “We pass by the temple often and they are always really excited to see it,” Rick said.
The spirit and music of Emanu-El has become part of the fabric of the family’s home life. “The music of Emanu-El has become part of the music of the home,” Rick said. “We’ll notice them humming the songs from services at home or catch them singing prayers or HaTikvah in the shower.”
For Rick and Janine, being part of Emanu-El has meant finding community and connection for their family. They look forward to being part of Temple Emanu-El’s next 180 years.
“Our sons have found a real home at Emanu-El,” Rick said. “We’re excited about what the future brings!”
