Dear CBE Community,

 

As we head into another year, I want to thank all current members, past members, extended family, champions, and supporters, who have blessed us with your time, spirit, donations, ideas, and presence at Congregation B’nai Emet. 

 

Over the past three years, we’ve experienced change in our leadership. We have welcomed Rabbi Jason Rosner who has strengthened our online presence and built relationships with our local dignitaries and within our community. We’ve welcomed our Cantorial duo, Kevin and Jerry, who have brought their musical creativity and ruach (spirit). We’ve also welcomed our Director of Education, Melissa Cohne, whose expertise, care of individual students, and attention to detail is reflected in the school’s engaging lessons and structured curriculum. As we’ve welcomed new leadership, we are fortunate to retain our foundational pillars, Rabbi Emerita Michele Paskow, Cantor Emeritus Michael Russ, and Director of Education Emerita Meridith Patera, who continue to quietly provide guidance and support.

 

In welcoming this season of change, we also want to welcome YOU. We want YOU to join our synagogue. No matter your family structure, where you are in your life cycle, or your financial circumstances. Regardless of what you can give, time you can volunteer, or whether or not you can attend services. Your presence, your name, your choosing to be a part of CBE will help us grow, strengthen and bring vibrancy to our local Jewish community. 

 

Joining our synagogue is a meaningful way to strengthen the CBE community. Regular dues cover only a portion of what it actually costs to sustain our synagogue—far below the true per‑family expense of clergy, security, education, pastoral care, services, and the daily operations of $140,000 per year that keep our doors open to all. In the past we have had tiered memberships where we have attempted to break down the cost according to family structure. But in this day and age, and in our current economy, we understand that a lot of individuals and families are struggling no matter where they are in their life cycle. With that in mind, we are shifting our perspective on membership dues.  

 

If we all share in our operating costs, membership would be $1665 per member unit. For those who are able, donating an additional amount to one of our funds or sponsoring a student, ensures that every member, regardless of means, can participate fully. It is an act of generosity that preserves the vibrancy, stability, and future of our Jewish sanctuary in Simi Valley. If you can’t pay the suggested membership contribution, I invite you to Pay What You Can. No awkward conversations, just a willingness to join. 

 

This is a year where gratitude, belonging, and growing our community are our goals. I would like to formally invite you to join Congregation B’nai Emet. Let’s make Congregation B’nai Emet a vibrant place where Jews in our community thrive and say, “YES! CBE is where we belong!” 

 

Warmly,

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Frieda Bahr

Board President

Congregation B’nai Emet