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June 15, 2001/Sivan 24, 5761, Vol. 53, No.37
Letters to the EditorJune 15, 2001
Help others, we also are helping ourselvesEditor:I was so pleased to read the bikkur cholim (visiting the sick) article (Jewish News, May 25) and its observations and information on what's being done within the greater Phoenix area. Since the mid-1980s, the Reform Movement's Union of American Hebrew Congregations (UAHC) has encouraged and supported Caring Committees within synagogues across North America. Temple Chai, one of the Reform synagogues mentioned in the article, is a shining example of what is being accomplished in the Phoenix area. The Southwestern Region of the UAHC, along with all the regions, is currently asking congregations what they're doing so information can be shared and offered. Both the SW Region and the National office can provide support and material for congregations working to develop Caring Committees. Contact UAHC-Jewish Family Concerns, 212-650-4294 or e-mail Deptjewfamcon@uahc.org or UAHC Pacific SW Council, 323-653-9962. As the realization that community means not just celebrating with others but sustaining and supporting each other, these Jewish resources will continue to grow. With their growth will come renewed interest and energy to our existing organizations. By helping others, we inevitably help ourselves so the benefits of such involvement will grow too. So I think the article was timely and important. Harriet Rosen Scottsdale Sun Lakes repliesEditor:I disagree with information stated in "Temple forms in Sun Lakes" (Jewish News, May 25). Our Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation (a Reform congregation founded in the mid-1980s) does indeed accept members from outside our community; and, while we do have almost 500 members, we do not consider that number "unwieldy," as quoted in your story. On the contrary, ours is a tight-knit congregation that makes every effort to make new members feel like longtime friends. There is no "internal conflict," as quoted in your story, and we are generally pleased with the way things are done by and for the congregation. Justin Friedman Sun Lakes |
