Hundreds attend annual communitywide Shabbat

More than 300 people filled the Temple Beth-El for the 31st annual communitywide Sabbath service. Most of the other synagogues were closed and the congregants all came together to pray as one. Gloria Max, executive director of the Jewish Federation of Volusia and Flagler counties, said being able to mingle with other members is important due to the small size of the Jewish community.

There was a proclamation read from Volusia County and Ormond Beach making Friday, Jan. 31 a special day. Dignitaries, clergy and people of all faiths were invited to observe this special service. Lynne Ritter, chairwoman of this service, did an excellent job of coordinating the program and the dessert reception.

Other rabbis involved in the service included Rabbi Reuven Silverman of Temple Israel of Deland; Rabbi Garry Perras of Temple Israel of Daytona Beach; Rabbi Steven David Kane, of Congregation B'Nai Torah; and the presidents of all the temples.

Rebecca Cook, cantor of Temple Israel, and Zev Sonnenstein chanted many of the songs that are sung on Friday night. Words of welcome were given by Lynne Ritter; Trienah Gorman, president of Temple Beth-El; Dr. Howard Pranikoff; and Gloria Max. 

Rabbi Barry Altman gave the sermon, in which he encouraged everyone to stand behind Israel because "we are the canary in the coal mines." This was his last sermon because he is retiring in June after 38 years of service.