Heritage Florida Jewish News - Central Florida's Independent Jewish Voice

Temple Israel's Board and Ritual Committee wanted to find a special way to honor Rabbi Joshua Neely and the congregation's president, Dr. Bernie Kahn, for all of their work this past year in reopening the synagogue safely for in-person services and limited face-to-face learning at MAGAL, the Meitin Alliance for Growth and Learning religious school. Rabbi Neely and Dr. Kahn worked very hard to keep the community safe and engaged while resolving the many issues faced during the pandemic. 

The Temple Israel Board notified the office of U.S. Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy, representing Florida's Seventh District, and was pleased to hear Congresswoman Murphy was happy to assist with the recognition after learning about the effort and creativity that went into reopening the synagogue safely and securely. She sent a signed letter of recognition to both Rabbi Neely and Dr. Kahn, noting their efforts and commending them for their excellent service to the community.

Rabbi Joshua Neely holding his recognition letter.

In her letter, Congresswoman Murphy wrote: "I am writing to thank you for everything you have done to guide your congregation at Temple Israel, and the Jewish community of Central Florida more broadly, in these extraordinarily challenging times. For those fortunate enough to have Temple Israel in their lives, you have provided them with a sanctuary, stability, a sense of community, and spiritual support - at the exact time they need it the most. These are intangible things, impossible to measure or quantify, but they are the most important things in life."

At the end of Shabbat services on Saturday, April 3, Temple Israel Board Member Dr. Michael Fineberg presented Rabbi Neely and Dr. Kahn with the recognition letters from the congresswoman and expressed appreciation, not only from the Board but the entire community, for their efforts, dedication, and leadership when it was needed most.