If you have been to our High Holy Days services over the past 50 years, chances are you have met Charles S. He is a lifelong member of Temple Emanu-El, a High Holy Days volunteer, and chairman of the Usher’s Committee.
“My favorite part of being a volunteer is interacting with people and providing the assistance they need. That is my reward,” Charles said. “When people come into the Fifth Avenue Sanctuary, they are hit with the grandeur. As a volunteer, you have to sense this and say, ‘May I help you?’ As soon as you say that, all of the anxiety disappears and they relax.”
As a High Holy Days volunteer usher, Charles has helped thousands of worshippers find their seats, answer questions, and feel welcomed in the sanctuary. He has even assisted members during medical emergencies.
For Charles, serving as a volunteer usher is a way of giving back to Temple Emanu-El.
“We need people who want to step forward, provide service, and put that above anything else,” he said.
For Charles, a third-generation member, High Holy Days at Temple Emanu-El has long been a family tradition.
“During the High Holy Days, my grandmother would sit in the sanctuary all day. The whole experience was meaningful to her,” he said.
For prospective volunteer ushers, Charles has simple advice.
“It’s very rewarding. As my mom used to say, ‘You get out what you put in.'”
Interested in becoming a High Holy Days volunteer usher? Email membership@emanuelnyc.org. Volunteers must be members of Temple Emanu-El.
