Elyse Krause
WHY DID I JOIN THE BENE ISRAEL SOCIETY? After graduating from Xavier University, I concluded every cover letter with the same sentiment: I want to be part of something larger than myself that has a mission to improve the world in some way. That same idea is how I feel about Create Your Jewish Legacy and the Bene Israel Society. It allows me to be part of something bigger than myself and to have a lasting impact on the Jewish community in general and Rockdale Temple in particular.
One of the things I’ve witnessed during my first year working at Rockdale is the commitment to building authentic relationships between individuals. Rockdale provides so many opportunities in and out of the building to connect with each other. We can connect through more traditional worship experiences, musical Rock Shabbats, shabbatCTY and all sorts of holiday celebrations. Having such programming and worship variety is possible because of the commitment across the community to meet people where they are. That is a mission that resonates with me—providing space to engage with other Jews and put our shared Jewish values into action.
My position as the Engagement Professional allows me to connect with so many congregants at Rockdale. We’ve had so many adventures this year: Rookwood Pottery tour, lunch and learns, and Jewish learning opportunities through the arts. We’ve painted together, played board games, and shared so many laughs. We’ve celebrated milestones together by dancing the night away during the Bicentennial Gala weekend! We learned more of Rockdale’s rich history through the In The Beginning Cookbook events, Art and Artifacts program, and Rabbi Gary Zola’s bus tour.
The Bicentennial Opening Event was one of my first Rockdale events where I recognized people. It showed me that the “Rockdalians” were embracing me and truly welcoming me into the community. That experience of being embraced and having numerous people wanting to be in relationship with me—that’s what I am committing to funding. A place for future generations to authentically connect with each other through Jewish engagement. That is why one of the first things I did after starting this position was joining the Bene Israel Society. I wanted to support the vibrant community for future generations!
