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This Friday night, we gather not only to welcome Shabbat—not only to pray or find comfort in one another after an overwhelming week for the Jewish people—but also to celebrate someone who has been a true gift to our congregation and to our lives: Beth Schafer, and her ten extraordinary years at Temple Sinai.

We'll honor Beth throughout our Shabbat service, and continue the celebration afterward with hors d'oeuvres, drinks, and desserts.

It feels especially fitting that this week’s Torah portion, Emor, teaches about sacred time and sacred offerings. It reminds us that holiness isn’t just in grand gestures—it’s in the rhythms, the rituals, and the people who help us mark time with intention. Beth does this for us. She brings meaning to our services, our seasons, and our everyday moments.

It’s hard to put into words the impact Beth has had on this congregation—and on me personally. As you all know, she is a gentle spirit and a deep soul. She is a listening ear when you need one, and a shoulder to cry on when you don’t even have the words. She’s spiritually grounded, and endlessly generous with her presence and her heart.

She’s achieved so much during her time here. From the creative work that elevates our worship to the support she offers through bereavement groups. There aren’t many people who can do what Beth does. She just picks up a guitar and plays anything—like it’s the easiest thing in the world, like it's tying a shoe. It’s amazing to watch her do her thing, totally in her element. 

Beth has experienced the fullness of life in these past 10 years at Sinai from her marriage to Rebecca Woods, to her daughters graduating UGA and Georgia Tech. And in just a few weeks, she’ll walk her daughter Hannah to the chuppah.  

This Shabbat we will celebrate Beth’s many professional accomplishments:  in a few weeks she’ll be presenting her new version of Am Yisrael Chai at an upcoming convention—one of only 14 pieces selected from 70 submissions. This comes on the heels of her Sh’ma and Atah Kadosh being published by Transcontinental Music, the largest publisher of Jewish music in the world.

For me personally—Beth is much more than a colleague. She’s the person I turn to when I need to catch my breath. She’s my favorite lunch date. She’s a well of empathy, and a true partner in this work. She sees humanity in every single person she meets. Her friendship and presence have shaped who I am as a rabbi and a person.

Beth, we are so grateful. I am so grateful. Ten years of leadership, creativity, partnership, and heart. Mazel Tov.

Join us as we celebrate 10 Years of Beth, honoring a decade of Beth Schafer's warmth, wisdom, and inspiring presence at Temple Sinai. Together, let's mark this milestone with gratitude and joy!

We kindly request that you RSVP for this special evening.