Easton temple celebrates expansion
Tuesday, October 27, 2009 2:08 PM EDT
EASTON- In these tough economic times, while other houses of worship may be losing membership or even closing their doors for good, Temple Chayai Shalom in Easton has been growing by leaps and bounds. In the last six years alone, the number of families who belong to TCS has nearly doubled, from 152 in 2003 to 263 in 2009.
Which is why, five years ago, the leadership of the temple formed the Building Expansion Committee, hoping to raise $2.2 million to expand its building and accommodate its growing community.
On Friday, October 16 the congregation of Temple Chayai Shalom will realize the first step in the expansion with the complete renovation of its Bimah, including a ramp for handicapped access, air conditioning, and 15 ft. windows adding a flood of natural lighting to the sanctuary.
"The wonderful level of participation we have received to date from our members, as well as from local businesses and foundations, has allowed us to take this first step," said Robert Krentzman, Co-President of Temple Chayai Shalom and Co-Chair of the Building Expansion Committee. "It gives us hope as we work toward our ultimate goal of a complete expansion of our building that not only houses our current congregation but our future one as well."
Details are as follows:
WHAT: Ribbon Cutting Ceremony/Dedication for the new Bimah
WHERE: Temple Chayai Shalom
239 Depot Street, Easton, MA
WHEN: 5 p.m. Champagne Celebration for invited guests
6 p.m. Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for invited guests/congregation
6:30 p.m. Sabbath Services
WHO: Major donors to Temple Chayai Shalom Building Expansion project
Board of Selectmen - Town of Easton
Temple Chayai Shalom Board of Directors
Temple Chayai Shalom Clergy:
Rabbi Jodi Seewald Smith
Cantor Spenadel
