[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 67 (Friday, May 11, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E779]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORS TEMPLE EMANUEL ON THEIR 50TH ANNIVERSARY

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                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 11, 2012

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today to 
join the many who have gathered in celebration of Temple Emanuel's 50th 
Anniversary. This milestone is a very special occasion, not only for 
the administration and members, but for the community as well.
  Founded in 1962, Temple Emanuel was the vision of a group of families 
seeking a better quality of Jewish education for their children and an 
experience different from what they had found in more typical Reform 
congregations. Chartered by the Union of American Congregations in 
1966, Temple Emanuel, under the direction of Rabbi Mark Winer, found 
its home on what was originally a working farm. While awaiting the 
construction of its sanctuary, congregants first used the barn for 
services and the property's home was used for the offices and as a 
school building.
  Working with members knowledgeable in architecture, design, and 
finance, their Temple Emanuel's current sanctuary was completed in 
1991. Rabbi Winer had introduced the concept of ``services in the 
round,'' so the new sanctuary was built with movable seating to fit any 
occasion. Services were participatory, with animated discussion and a 
self published Siddur, the traditional Jewish prayer book. Rabbi 
Brieger, Temple Emanuel's second rabbi, continued this style of 
worship. A former song leader with the North American Federation of 
Temple Youth and codirector of the International Torah Corps, Rabbi 
Brieger had strong roots in the Reform movement and excellent musical 
skills. Under his direction, and through song and communal prayer, 
Temple Emanuel's congregation developed its unique style and 
strengthened their connection to Judaism. Temple Emanuel is currently 
led by Rabbi Michael Farbman who came to the congregation following 
Rabbi Brieger's retirement in 2009. With his dynamic guitar playing 
services and the creation of the Temple Emanuel Band, whose members 
range from middle school to retirement age, Rabbi Farbman continues the 
strong musical influence of his predecessors while bringing a new joy 
and energy to the congregation's worship.
  In addition to their religious dedication, the congregants of Temple 
Emanuel are also deeply concerned with their community and their work 
on behalf of others extends far beyond the walls of their synagogue. 
Their members collect and donate food to local food pantries several 
times a year, they have been involved with Sister City projects, and 
have participated in Abraham's Tent--an effort to address homelessness 
in which congregations volunteer to provide meals and overnight shelter 
to twelve homeless men for the duration of their week, alleviating 
overcrowding in the shelters and demonstrating support for the homeless 
members of our communities--since its inception. Temple Emanuel's 
religious school students have regular Tzedakah projects which include 
making gift baskets for children residing in domestic violence 
shelters, collecting books and school supplies for area children's 
programs, and raising money for animal shelters. Through all of these 
efforts and more, the members of Temple Emanuel have touched the lives 
of thousands of people in need--setting a example of service to which 
we should all strive.
  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 its first fifty years, there have been many who have worshiped 
within its halls and many who have found peace and strength in the 
outstretched arms of Temple Emanuel. It is with my deepest thanks and 
appreciation for all of their good work that I stand today to pay 
tribute to Temple Emanuel as they celebrate their 50th Anniversary. 
Their contributions have left an indelible mark on our community and a 
legacy that will live on for generations to come.

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