Senate Floor Statement in Recognition Of Congregation Beth El on 120 Years of Service and Growth in the Grand Traverse Area

Mr. President, it is with great pride that I pay tribute to Congregation Beth El on its 120th anniversary. The congregation will celebrate this milestone with a weekend of events titled “May Ohr L’Ohr: From Light to Light” on June 22 through June 24, 2007. This celebration will highlight the congregation’s rich history and recognize its special place in the Grand Traverse community.

Congregation Beth El was formed in the late 1800’s by Jewish immigrants arriving from Poland and Russia. In 1885, the cornerstone was laid for the Beth El synagogue, a simple two story gable and clapboard structure. Today, the building is the oldest synagogue in continuous use in Michigan and is featured on the State Register of Historic Sites. The synagogue, originally built to hold an Orthodox congregation, has evolved over the years to serve all members of the Jewish community, as well as to welcome those of other faiths. The vitality of Congregation Beth El can be attributed to the hard work, dedication and vision of the congregation. The congregation, lead in large measure by the executive committee, has sought to make the synagogue the center of the Jewish community’s religious and social life. One such example is the summer rabbi program. The program enables young rabbis to travel to Traverse City to share their enthusiasm for and commitment to Judaism with members of the congregation and community. This program has been greatly successful and eventually led to a year round rabbi presence for Congregation Beth El.

On the celebration of the 120th anniversary of Congregation Beth El, I would like to extend my best wishes to all members of the congregation. I also commend the leadership of Congregation Beth El on maintaining a synagogue that has provided a place for those seeking answers in Judaism and a center of Jewish activities in Northern Michigan. Once again, congratulations on 120 years of service and growth in the Grand Traverse area.