Letter from Marty to Congregation Shir Heharim
Dear fellow members of Congregation Shir Heharim,
Nine months ago, the BAJC AD HOC RABBINIC SEARCH COMMITTEE, comprised of Michael Knapp, Enid Wainwright, Julie and Louisa Strothman, Marty Cohn and chaired by immediate past president Paul Berch, began its work to identify our next spiritual leader. The committee conducted membership meetings to solicit input as to the needs of the congregation. It reviewed applications, interviewed candidates and invited three Rabbis to visit BAJC to conduct services. Membership input was solicited after each of these rabbi’s visits and again after all three had met with the committee for a second interview. The committee presented its recommendation to the Board and the Board voted to accept the recommendation.
It is my pleasure and honor to announce that Rabbi Tom Heyn has accepted our offer to serve BAJC beginning on July 1, 2010.
Rabbi Heyn was ordained in 1999 by Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. For the past ten years, he has served as a rabbi/chaplain in the Cincinnati, OH area.
Those familiar with Rabbi Heyn speak about his Hebrew school teaching, ability to lead services, pastoral care, and family life. His role as chaplain in a retirement home was mentioned frequently, as was his talent in pastoral work. He was referred to as a consoling and comforting presence, and the residents were extremely fond of him.
Additionally, his love of music and his musical talent was mentioned. In fact, one person told us he has the ability to be part of a group without dominating the group. While another stated that his musical talent draws people in and his presence is engaging.
Rabbi Heyn is well-regarded as a teacher for all ages. He easily shares his openness, depth and breadth of knowledge.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Rabbi Heyn’s family. Many of us have met his lovely wife, Alexandra, and look forward to welcoming his three sons.
Over the ensuing months, there will be many opportunities to meet with Rabbi Heyn. I am confident that our congregation will become as excited as I am about this new chapter in the 40-year history of Congregation Shir Heharim.
Barach Ata Adonnai, Eloheynu Melech ha-olam, ha-tov ve-ha-maytiv.
We praise you, Eternal God, Sovereign of the universe, the Source of good.
I look forward to discussing this further at our Annual Meeting on Monday, June 28th. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
B’shalom,
Marty Cohn, BAJC President
You can read more about Rabbi Tom Heyn at RabbiTom.com
If you would like to assist in planning a welcome celebration, please email info@bajcvermont.org
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