At Congregation Etz Chaim, we know that our greatest asset is our sense of community, and we do all we can to nurture it. With extraordinarily caring and supportive members, our congregation strives to live according to the belief that “kol Israel arevim zeh la-zeh,” all Jews are responsible for one another.
New Member Support
New to Congregation Etz Chaim? We’re glad you’re here. You probably have a lot of questions about how things operate, whom to contact for specific needs, and how you can get involved. Feel free to download our New Member Guide for helpful, up-to-date information and answers to the most common questions from newcomers. And be sure to visit our Resources page as well for tips on everything from where to find the closest kosher butcher to where to get a decent bagel in town.
Pastoral Care
When experiencing sadness, anxiety, or suffering in illness or loss, a person or family may be in need of spiritual counseling. At such times, Cantor Beth Strassler is available to help members of our community through difficult times. As our spiritual leader, she is a resource for comfort, companionship, and Jewish prayer. She is available to meet once or twice or on a regular basis, as needed. Meetings may take place in the hospital, in homes, in our shul, or over the phone.
Shiva Support
And Yahrzeit Program
As a complimentary service to our members, Congregation Etz Chaim honors individual requests to gather a daily minyan at a mourner’s home to recite the Kaddish during the initial mourning period. We help our community honor those who have passed away by facilitating their participation in yahrzeit, the traditional recognition of the anniversary of a loved one’s passing. Through our Yahrzeit Program, you receive an annual reminder of an upcoming yahrzeit so that you may be prepared to say Kaddish and/or light a memorial candle at home.
To receive a yahrzeit reminder letter, please email Jennie Aranovitch .
For information about memorial plaques, please visit our Life Cycle Events page or email David Strassler.
Community Care
If you, as a member of our congregation — or another member that you know of — is in need of assistance, Etz Chaim’s Community Outreach Committee would like to help if we can. We may not be able to work miracles, but small acts of kindness in a time of need can go a long way.
Need help with meal preparation after a medical procedure, for example? We have cooks at the ready. Aware that an older community member is struggling with feelings of isolation? We have trusted and caring members who would be honored to make a connection. Our members are important to us! Please let us know how we can make things easier.