For Susan D., volunteering as a High Holy Days usher is another way of making the holiest time on the Jewish calendar more meaningful. Volunteering as an usher helped Susan feel more connected to the Temple Emanu-El community and the Jewish community at large.
“It makes the holiday different from any other day,” she said. “It’s a nice interactive experience.”
As an usher, Susan helped members find their seats, answered questions, and greeted members with a warm presence. She assured prospective volunteers they should not fear the role.
“Go in with a smile on your face,” she said. “Jump right in. There is nothing to be afraid of. You will be welcomed by your fellow ushers.”
Susan’s interest in serving as a High Holy Days usher grew out of her desire to contribute to the Temple Emanu-El community. She and her family joined Temple Emanu-El two years ago. Prior to moving to New York, Susan lived in California where she was involved with an array of activities at her synagogue. Since joining Temple Emanu-El, Susan has served as a High Holy Days greeter and joined Women of Emanu-El. Her daughters have developed a close relationship with the temple’s clergy.
“Temple Emanu-El is becoming home for our family,” she said.
As the calendar moves toward summer, Susan is already thinking about the fall, the upcoming High Holy Days, and ushering. “I hope to do it again,” she said.
Interested in becoming a High Holy Days volunteer usher? Email membership@emanuelnyc.org. Volunteers must be members of Temple Emanu-El.
