Our Leaders: In Blessed Memory

Congregation Beth Israel-Judea has always relied on the strength and dedication of our clergy and lay leaders. While many are lving, some have passed on, remaining in our hearts. Here are some of the great leaders we remember:


Rabbis

Rabbi Herbert Morris ZT"L came to Temple Judea in 1962 and served the combined Congregation Beth Israel-Judea until his retirement in 1998. He, his wife Judy and his children, were all beloved by the membership. He passed away in 2003.

Rabbi Morris had a deep personal connection with Judaism and he brought that memorably to the congregation in his sermons. His Hear Our Prayer, a special Machzor, combines Reform and Conservative liturgy and is still used for High Holiday services. The Fireside Room, which is used as chapel and library, is named in his honor.


Congregation Beth Israel's rabbis include M. Wolff (1860-1868), W. Weinstein (1868), A. Streisand (1875), H. Grodzinsky (1876), A. J. Messing (1878-1890), M. S. Levy (1891-1916), H. Lissauer (1916-1926), E. M. Burstein (1927-1969, emeritus 1969-1975), and M. Tutnauer  (1960-?). 


Cantors

For some three decades Cantor Henry Greenberg ZT"L was a presence on the Beth Israel-Judea bimah. His sincerity and love for Torah and Jewish tradition were his hallmarks. He died in 2006.  


His Torah leyning was also remarkable for its accuracy and speed.  He taught generations of bar and bat mitzvah studdents. Former President Anne Fuchs-Chesney said in her eulogy that Cantor Henry "filled this sanctuary with your heart and your soul. And you will live on here and in our hearts for all eternity."


Congregation Beth Israel was served by two outstanding cantors: Joseph Rabinowitz (1891-1943), and Josef Roman Cycowski (1947-197?).



Copyright Congregation Beth Israel-Judea 2007