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Congregation Sha'arey Israel

A Conservative Jewish Congregation serving the spiritual needs of the Middle Georgia Jewish community since 1904

611 First Street, Macon, GA 31201
Phone: (478) 745-4571
Email: secretary@csimacon.org

A Message from our President

Thoughts for February

  • Posted on February 1, 2017
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            This is a picture of a beautiful Luna Moth who graced the outside of a window in my house one evening.  Most of it’s life is spent as a caterpillar, then in a cocoon, finally emerging as an adult moth.  But it only lives about one week  and doesn’t have a mouth or Continue Reading »

January and a New Year of Goals

  • Posted on January 1, 2017
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            So somewhere between the remaining days of Hanukkah and 2017, the flu “bug” decided to call my body home! Being highly allergic to one of the preservatives in the flu shot I’m unable to receive it. Luckily, I have been fortunate over the years not to catch the virus but once in childhood and Continue Reading »

Hanukkah 2016!

  • Posted on December 1, 2016
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So, almost time for Hanukkah again! A comparatively minor holiday on the Jewish calendar, yet with significance also. It evokes thoughts of lighting the Hanukkiah, enjoying latkes and doughnuts fried in oil, chocolate gelt, gifts, an ancient victory and miracles! When a small band of faithful Jews defeated one of the mightiest armies and drove Continue Reading »

Saying L’Shanah Tovah to 5777

  • Posted on November 1, 2016
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This time of year is filled with endings and new beginnings.   Recently, we said goodbye to a year just passed as we reflected on 5776.  The new Jewish New Year of 5777 arrived and we wished each other well at services with joyous greetings of L’Shanah Tovah!  Simchat Torah, a holiday marking the completion of Continue Reading »

Looking forward to 5777

  • Posted on October 1, 2016
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Well the High Holidays or “Hi Ho’s” as they are affectionally called are upon us once again! There is a flurry of activity at the shul…changing out Torah covers to their Holiday adornments, final edits to the upcoming Directory, updating the Yizkor book, procuring Torah and Haftorah readers, lining up gabbaim, aliyot honors, and security Continue Reading »

Together We Can Move Mountains

  • Posted on September 1, 2016
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A famous quote is “No man is an island” and here at Congregation Sha’arey Israel that is a good thing. Since our earliest days as a congregation, our efforts and growth as a synagogue has been reliant on teamwork. You know…the “together we can move mountains” mentality. Perhaps it sounds a bit cheesy, but it’s Continue Reading »

Endless Days of Summer

  • Posted on August 1, 2016
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The long, hot days of summer seem endless…but of course time marches on. If we are blessed to live out a generous number of years and get a perspective of the big picture, what is really important is recognizable. For most this includes family, friendships, compassion, health, perseverance, joys, knowledge, and faith. Our conscious mind Continue Reading »

Wow! Is it Summer Already?

  • Posted on June 2, 2016
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At the synagogue, we just wrapped up the close of another fun, educational, and eventful Religious School year. We also had our Annual Congregational Meeting. As I noted in my President’s remarks, one of the positive qualities found in smaller congregations is certainly the warm fellowship of familiar faces. What can be challenging for leadership Continue Reading »

May and Freedom

  • Posted on May 1, 2016
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            The month of May is one of my favorite months.  Hey, a month that honors mothers has got to be good! In addition, typically the weather temperature is wonderfully moderate and pleasant.  The landscape is alive with greenery and color.  I was able to appreciate the tapestry of Spring scenery on the interstate traveling Continue Reading »

Happy Passover!

  • Posted on April 1, 2016
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You know you are in the middle of Spring when Macon’s Cherry Blossom trees are in bloom and pollen is wafting through the air! This is the month for April showers to bring on those May flowers as the saying goes! The rain is needed and is a reminder of how all living things need Continue Reading »