[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 55 (Tuesday, April 17, 2012)]
[Senate]
[Page S2386]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    RECOGNIZING RENO'S TEMPLE SINAI

  Mr. REID. Mr. President, I wish to honor Temple Sinai in Reno, NV, 
which has stood for 50 years as a place of worship for the Jewish 
people of northern Nevada. It is comprised of approximately 120 
households who come together to form a strong community where the 
Jewish faith is celebrated. Temple Sinai has been a consistent presence 
for Reform Judaism in northern Nevada, a place where Jewish teaching, 
tradition, and spiritual inquiry is nurtured.
  The important 50th anniversary, ``Shanah Shel Zahav'' in Hebrew, or 
Golden Year, is testament to the resiliency of the Temple Sinai 
congregation. It traces its humble beginnings to a small group of 
Reform Jewish residents in Reno offering High Holy Day services, soon 
expanding to Sabbath Services and Bar/Bat Mitzvah training. Many of 
these sacred rituals were performed in the private homes of 
congregation members who realized the importance of building a 
sanctuary. It is through their sacrifice and determination that this 
holy place of worship was built.
  Temple Sinai has had many homes since its founding 50 years ago. 
Initially located in the Virginia City Room of the Masonic Temple in 
downtown Reno, the Temple was forced to find a new location after a 
devastating fire. Temple Sinai congregants then came together to offer 
the skills and capital necessary to construct a permanent location. 
Ground broke in February 1970, and the Temple has continued to grow 
since then, adding classrooms, a social hall, and a library. As 
recently as 2008, Temple Sinai expanded the available space and updated 
the Temple for the 21st century.
  I have personally experienced the welcoming warm hospitality of 
Temple Sinai. I was honored to share in a Shabbat dinner with members 
of the Temple, as well as attend Evolution Weekend. In visiting the 
congregation over the years, I have always been impressed by the rich 
spiritual life and intellectual openness exhibited there.
  I would like to congratulate Temple Sinai for its important role in 
bringing Reform Judaism to northern Nevada and on its important 50th 
anniversary. While I cannot be in Reno to share in their celebration, I 
would be remiss if I did not offer my words of support.

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