If Money Grew On Trees…
by Rabbi David Castiglione

If money grew on trees, there would be no Temple deficit. Membership would be free. Our children and families would have every Jewish advantage and resource at their disposal. There would be three more rabbis to tend to our congregation’s needs. The economic concerns of every member would be a thing of the past.

Alas, the only green that grows on trees are leaves… and sometimes those nasty little beetles and the caterpillars that make tent like cocoons. Nevertheless, we forge on to provide the best that we can with that which we have. Considering, we do a pretty good job.

Among our successes is our ability to foster Jewish bonding, identity and a sense of connection in our youth by augmenting Temple-based programming with extended Temple sponsored trips- a time-tested approach. Our teens adore them, and often ask for more than we can possibly schedule in any one year. Unfortunately, the costs for trips to Jewish New York, Toronto, Chicago, Washington D.C. and even more locally situated places such as Camp Tamarack, are becoming more and more expensive.

As a Temple, we are exceptionally fortunate in the dedication and commitment our Sisterhood has shown, year after year, in providing scholarships and underwriting so that the cost to families is not overwhelmingly prohibitive. In fact, none of what we are able to do with our teens would be possible without their help. Nevertheless, since money doesn’t grow on trees, (I’ve searched our Temple property, and have yet to find one), the funds our Sisterhood allocates come directly from their fundraising efforts such as the Party Planning Showcase, Holiday Boutiques, Gift Shop sales, Donor Luncheons and the like.

Though no one from Sisterhood has approached me to offer this plea, I know how hard they work and how much the payoff means in the lives of our teenagers. What I ask comes from my heart on behalf of all we hope to accomplish. When shopping for holiday needs, Judaica or invitations, see what our Sisterhood has to offer first. When a Sisterhood event is at hand, sign up and be a part. Not only are they truly wonderful events, such as the recent evening featuring Cantor Gottlieb and the Jazz Trio, but your dollars have a direct and lasting impact on so many of our children’s lives.

We may never find a tree that grows money, but we can decide to support our Sisterhood’s efforts and thereby provide the green we might otherwise have harvested. Tonight, as I submit this to publication, we will begin the festival of Sukkot - a season of our joy - a time when, traditionally, we brought the offerings of our thanksgiving to support the work of our faith. Throughout the year, I pray that our offerings will be abundant and that they will be shared with joy. In advance, for all your support, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.