Yom Kippur Appeal 5784
A Message from Rabbi Finkelstein:
Dear Friends,
When my family and I arrived in Lakeview in July, Anshe Sholom welcomed us with open arms, making us quickly feel at home. There was a delicious dinner waiting for us and everything we needed to smoothly transition to life in Chicago. We’ve been so touched by this community’s Shabbat hospitality, bringing us dinner and hosting us for meals. There was even a pages-long digital guide to the neighborhood, offering tips on everything from where to buy kosher meat to suggested weekend outings.
Our family’s experience, while notable, is not surprising. ASBI’s reputation for hospitality and warmth is well-known. People come to Chicago and are drawn to our community for its openness, vibrancy, and care. In these few short months, I have already seen how people rally when there is someone in the hospital or in need of chesed. Our weekday minyan is friendly, warm, and intergenerational, with people saying kaddish and others lending their support. Shabbat morning offers two lovely minyanim, learning opportunities, Shabbat babysitting, groups for kids, regular potlucks for twenties and thirties, and a joyful kiddush. ASBI has also recently launched a series of community conversations designed to foster conversation on a variety of topics and recognizing the importance of reflection and reconnection in this moment for our community.
My vision for our community in the coming new year can be distilled into a single word: achdut, meaning unity or coming together. I’m excited to try out new programs in the months ahead, like our recent “Shabbat Shuva of Song”. Regardless of the event, the goal remains the same: to provide opportunities for the many different kinds of people at ASBI to come together, deepening our connections to Judaism and with each other as well.
So much of what happens at ASBI rests on the generosity of our membership and the Yom Kippur Appeal specifically. This funding gives ASBI the resources to turn our vision for vibrant Jewish life in Lakeview into a reality. We thank you for all you have already done and all that you do to support our community.
Wishing you a happy, healthy and joyful 5784. Ketiva V’Chatim Tova, may we all be inscribed for a good year ahead.
Rabbi Aaron Finkelstein and Julie Sugar,
Amalya (2) and Yara (almost 5)
To make your contribution to the 5784 Yom Kippur Appeal, select one of the levels below, or enter in the amount you would like to donate. You will then be directed to a payment page. The shul is counting on your support!
Want to make a pledge and pay by check? Please email shul@asbi.org.