Thoughts from Rabbi Lester Bronstein and Cantor Benjie Ellen Schiller

Let's admit it: When our bold congregants initially proposed having a Judaica craft show back in 1992, we were skeptical. When they said we were going to take it virtual this year, we were doubly skeptical.  There, we said it!

In 1992, we wondered whether the greater community would turn out - not only once, but year after year - to purchase gifts for themselves and their loved ones that would truly celebrate Hiddur Mitzvah - the "splendor" of Jewish observance as expressed through beautiful ritual objects.

We think we can agree that our skepticism has been put to rest.  The community responded in person over the years, and now it is about to respond virtually. 

Our precious relationships with artists from Israel, the United States, and throughout the world, lovingly cultivated over decades, can now continue to flourish through a virtual medium.  Those relationships have had a profound effect on our way of thinking about Israel, about Judaism, about Jewish peoplehood, and about our own personal spiritual growth. 

Art plays a crucial role in our lives, and the Judaica Craft Show has nurtured that process in innumerable ways.  No need to pause that process now!    

Welcome to the Bet Am Shalom Virtual Craft Show experience!  Long may it thrive!

Cantor Benjie Ellen Schiller and Rabbi Lester Bronstein