A life intertwined with Judaism

Sandy Cawthern, born in Worcester, Massachusetts, discovered her connection to Judaism at a young age. "I was 9 when Israel was created as a Jewish state for the Jewish people, and we danced the Hora in the playground at my elementary school to celebrate," she recalls. Despite being shy, Sandy found herself drawn to the warmth and community of the Jewish faith. "I find people sitting by themselves and ask to sit with them and ask questions. I love listening to their stories. I find them fascinating. That's how I met this group of Jewish ladies sitting, waiting for services, and here I am. I was always attracted to Judaism - it looked like fun."

Now a resident at Kinneret, a senior living community with 280 apartments, Sandy faces the reality of aging with a positive outlook. "Here at Kinneret, everyone is old. Death walks beside us, so we try to find ways to live life as happily as we can."

Embracing her love for Judaism, she joins the local Jewish group, finding joy and connection in Shabbat services sponsored by The Jewish Pavilion Senior Services. With Cantor Nina Fine leading the services, Sandy and her community continue to celebrate and find meaning in their shared faith.

To volunteer with or donate to The Jewish Pavilion Senior Services to help make programs like this possible please contact 407-678-9363, jewishpavilion.org.