[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 96 (Thursday, June 14, 2007)]
[Senate]
[Page S7728]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO CONGREGATION BETH EL

 Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, it is with great pride that I pay 
tribute to Congregation Beth El on its 120th anniversary. The 
congregation will celebrate this milestone with a weekend of events 
titled ``May Ohr L'Ohr: From Light to Light'' on June 22 through June 
24, 2007. This celebration will highlight the congregation's rich 
history and recognize its special place in the Grand Traverse 
community.
  Congregation Beth El was formed in the late 1800s by Jewish 
immigrants arriving from Poland and Russia. In 1885, the cornerstone 
was laid for the Beth El synagogue, a simple two-story gable-and-
clapboard structure. Today, the building is the oldest synagogue in 
continuous use in Michigan and is featured on the State Register of 
Historic Sites. The synagogue, originally built to hold an Orthodox 
congregation, has evolved over the years to serve all members of the 
Jewish community, as well as to welcome those of other faiths.
  The vitality of Congregation Beth El can be attributed to the hard 
work, dedication, and vision of the congregation. The congregation, led 
in large measure by the executive committee, has sought to make the 
synagogue the center of the Jewish community's religious and social 
life. One such example is the summer rabbi program. The program enables 
young rabbis to travel to Traverse City to share their enthusiasm for 
and commitment to Judaism with members of the congregation and 
community. This program has been greatly successful and eventually led 
to a year-round rabbi presence for Congregation Beth El.
  On the celebration of the 120th anniversary of Congregation Beth El, 
I would like to extend my best wishes to all members of the 
congregation. I also commend the leadership of Congregation Beth El on 
maintaining a synagogue that has provided a place for those seeking 
answers in Judaism and a center of Jewish activities in northern 
Michigan. Once again, congratulations on 120 years of service and 
growth in the Grand Traverse area.

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