Shalom,

          As President of Temple B’nai Torah’s Brotherhood, it is my pleasure to inform you about this award-winning arm of the Temple.  First and foremost, we are a group of men who are proud members of the congregation.  Amongst this camaraderie of men with similar life happenings, we are Jewish, non-Jewish married to a Jewish woman, divorced, separated, and single.  We create programming that helps us understand what being a Jewish man really is, and what is means to be a man who is not Jewish living with a Jewish partner. 

          Brotherhood is a place to meet men from various backgrounds and religious experiences, to share ideas and thoughts.  It is a place to find ways to be helpful to our community, to promote Tikun Olam (repairing the world).  It is a place where we can share positive ideas on how to live in Temple B’nai Torah and in today’s world. 

          Brotherhood is a place to kick back and enjoy oneself.  It is a place to be with other men and relax – not like on the job.  It is a place to be useful and happy, a place to learn to cook while enjoying it.  It is a place to expand your mind in a relaxed and fun way.  It is also a place to be part of the larger Jewish world through our affiliation with Men of Reform Judaism. 

          Brotherhood has a major role in helping the Jewish life at Temple B’nai Torah.   Our members participate in the adult choir.  We usher at the High Holiday Services and we build the Temple Sukkah. We participate in the children’s Chanukah celebration and we give gifts to the Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebrants. 

          I am proud to be President this year leading an excellent Brotherhood Board of highly qualified men who are energetic and motivated.  We want to make Brotherhood a fun, enjoyable and rewarding experience.  At TBT Brotherhood, you get what you put in.  It’s your Brotherhood!     

                                                                             Ben Cernese

                                                                             President