Temple Beth Am Promotes Service in Pinecrest for High Holidays

Pinecrest residents are encouraged to deepen their commitment to community service and social justice as the High Holidays approach. Temple Beth Am is highlighting “tikkun olam,” a Hebrew phrase meaning “repairing the world,” as a central theme for the season.

Judy Cowan, President of Tikkun Olam at Temple Beth Am, urged congregants to translate prayers into action. “As we prepare to gather as a community, let’s think about how we can turn our prayers into deeds,” Cowan said.

The congregation is organizing holiday food drives to support neighbors in need. Temple Beth Am also invites members to commit to a new year of service and learning, suggesting involvement with social action committees, environmental initiatives, Torah study sessions, or Beth Am University.

Cowan stated that extending compassion daily, through actions like listening deeply, acting generously, and advocating for others, is fundamental to repairing the world.

The High Holidays, focused on “teshuvah” (return or repentance), offer a time for introspection and action. “True teshuvah requires us to look at the world as it is, acknowledge its brokenness, and actively work to heal it,” Cowan said. “Tikkun Olam is teshuvah in action.”

By engaging in acts of “tzedakah” (justice/charity), advocating for the marginalized, feeding the hungry, and caring for the planet, the congregation aims to bring the world closer to wholeness. This approach moves from contemplation to actively creating a better year.

Temple Beth Am hopes the sounding of the shofar this year will call congregants to address the needs of the wider world. The synagogue wishes everyone a good, sweet, and impactful new year.