[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 137 (Thursday, October 17, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1878-E1879]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    HONORING CONGREGATION B'NAI JACOB AS THEY CELEBRATE THEIR 120TH 
                              ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 16, 2002

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today to 
join the many who have gathered to celebrate the 120th Anniversary of 
Congregation B'nai Jacob of Woodbridge, Connecticut. Throughout its 
history, B'nai Jacob has been an invaluable institution in the Greater 
New Haven Jewish community.
  The oldest conservative synagogue in the area as well as the second 
largest in the State of Connecticut, Congregation B'nai Jacob has a 
long and proud history as an American synagogue. Today, more than seven 
hundred families make up its membership. Led by Rabbi Richard Eisenberg 
and Cantor Joshua Konigsberg, both well-respected throughout the 
national Jewish community, Congregation B'nai Jacob continues to play a 
prominent role in our community and across the globe.
  Originally founded by Jewish immigrants from Russia seeking refuge in 
America, Congregation B'nal Jacob has become one of Greater New Haven's 
leading advocates for social justice. Actively participating in the 
interests of the community as a whole, members are both leaders in the 
Jewish community and general society. Annual events are sponsored to 
benefit many local service organizations and its membership can also be 
found on a

[[Page E1879]]

variety of boards and committees throughout Greater New Haven. The 
largest state contributor to the State of Israel Bonds and the Israel 
Emergency Fund, Congregation B'nai Jacob has and continues to be a 
vocal and tireless advocate for the State of Israel and the restoration 
of peace for the Israeli people. Seeking the preservation of their 
culture and the enrichment of their community, the membership of 
Congregation B'nal Jacob is proud of its commitment to tradition and 
their devotion to their American home.
  Congregation B'nai Jacob has flourished and become an important 
fixture in the community. It is the dedication and commitment of their 
members that has made it such a great success. Our houses of worship 
play a vital role in our communities--providing people with a place to 
turn to for comfort when they are most in need. In over a century, 
there have been many who have worshiped within their halls and many who 
have found peace and strength in the outstretched arms of B'nai Jacob.
  It is with honor and the deepest thanks and appreciation for all of 
their good work that I stand today to pay tribute to Congregation B'nal 
Jacob as they celebrate their 120th Anniversary. Their contributions 
have left an indelible mark on our community and a legacy that will 
live on for generations to come.

                          ____________________