Rabbi's Blog

Shalom Chevrei Tifereth Israel,

Earlier today, our monthly Menorah hit the streets (or was sent to your email). I want to highlight my article because it is so important that people know about a special recognition of our volunteers happening next Shabbat. I am reposting my article below and know that, since I wrote it, the number of volunteers being recognized has gone up to over 240 (probably more since the Menorah went to print too).

It is not too late for you to share words of appreciation for volunteers and support the Kiddush at bit.ly/TIappreciate.
Yes, you may be sponsoring kiddish for your own recognition but you are also showing your appreciation to over 239 other individuals.

Show your gratitude through the above link and through your attendance at our service next week, Saturday, May 10.

l’Shalom,
Rabbi Werbow


My May 2025 Menorah Article
Later this month approximately 70 of your fellow TIers will break the longstanding and inaccurate adage that “Jews don’t camp.” To be accurate, approximately 50 will be camping while the others will be staying at a hotel nearby and spending the days at the campground. Either way though what we will be doing is proving the point that TI is a really special place.
Our recently up and running activity groups show the same thing that this camping trip shows. A group of TIers who put out into the world an idea of what they want to see happen, can make it happen. The camping trip takes this to a whole other level because all weekend long teams of people will be working together to provide food, activities and spiritual experiences for their fellow TIers. 
This lifting up of an idea and putting it into action is what we will celebrate on May 10th at Volunteer Appreciation Shabbat. This year, well over 200 individuals have stepped up in some capacity to make TI happen. Board members, committee members, taskforce participants, one off volunteers, repeat volunteers, ritual leaders & coordinators, group facilitators, meal providers, event planners and so many more will be the recipients of our gratitude that morning.
May will also be the month where we will welcome in new Board members and usher out those who are completing and not renewing their terms. The Board is included in our big group of volunteers but they have also played a unique role in making the top decisions and setting the agenda for our community. I have had the pleasure of seeing them in action and welcome you to share in my gratitude when we install a new Board on June 7 (Yes I know this is the May Menorah but figured you could put it on your calendar early).
So, as the weather turns to real spring and we are grateful for the sunshine, the colorful flowers and the warm breezes, let’s also share our gratitude for all those who have put their time and energy into TI.

And, click here if you want to listen to a humorous folk song declaring that “Jews Don’t Camp.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mfzuw9yS-T0

Todah Rabbah,
Rabbi Werbow

Tifereth Israel Congregation
7701 16th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20012
202-882-1605 | info@tifereth-israel.org

​​​​​​​www.tifereth-israel.org ​​​​​​​