Year End Giving

As we arrive at the close of another fiscal year, I find myself filled with gratitude—for our community, for the spirit that animates this sacred home, and for each of you who make Beth El the vibrant center of Jewish life that it is.

This year has reminded me, again and again, that a synagogue is far more than a building. It is a spiritual home. It is where we come to pray and to question, to celebrate and to mourn, to learn, to grow, and to raise the next generation in the richness of Jewish tradition. It is where the story of our people becomes the story of our own families.

Looking back on the months behind us, I am moved by all we have accomplished together. We welcomed amazing speakers whose wisdom stretched our minds and stirred our souls. We offered meaningful services and powerful programming that brought depth to our weeks, comfort during difficult times, and joy during moments of celebration. Our dedicated staff worked tirelessly—often behind the scenes—to ensure that every holiday, every class, and every gathering felt thoughtful, seamless, and full of purpose. And our commitment to first-rate education for our students has remained unwavering. Nothing brings me more hope than seeing our children learn, question, and discover what Judaism can mean in their lives.

Synagogues have always been at the heart of Jewish community, identity and continuity. In a world that is both uncertain and rapidly changing, Beth El continues to anchor us—spiritually, emotionally, and communally. We are the place people come to find meaning, to reconnect with tradition, and to feel held by something larger than themselves. That work has never been more important than it is right now.

On the first night of Hanukkah this year, as Jews around the world lit candles celebrating survival, courage, and Jewish visibility, we were shaken by the antisemitic attack at Bondi Beach in Australia. A place of public joy became a site of terror simply because Jews were present as Jews. This was not random violence—it was a reminder that antisemitism is once again being expressed openly, violently, and without shame. And yet, the message of Hanukkah speaks directly to this moment. When hatred seeks to intimidate us into hiding, we answer by standing more firmly in who we are. Acts like the one at Bondi Beach do not weaken Jewish identity; they strengthen it. They remind us why Jewish continuity matters, why our institutions matter, and why raising proud, knowledgeable Jewish children is itself an act of defiance. Lighting the menorah—especially now—is not only a remembrance of an ancient miracle, but a declaration that our past, our presence, and our future will not be erased.

As we look ahead to 2026, I am proud to say that Beth El will continue to strive to meet the needs of all our congregants—young and old, new members and long-time families, those who attend every week and those who come seeking comfort or connection at pivotal moments. Our mission endures, and our commitment deepens: to be a synagogue that inspires, educates, welcomes, and uplifts every single member of this community.

As we close this fiscal year, I ask for your partnership and your support in furthering our mission for years to come. Your generosity ensures that Beth El remains a spiritual home for all who enter, and that our community continues to flourish—strong, compassionate, and full of hope.

With heartfelt gratitude,

How You Can Help

Many people choose to make charitable donations as a final mitzvah in the calendar year and/or to offset tax liabilities. Some congregants choose to pay their dues in full or pay down their building fund balance to help offset their tax liability. Others choose to donate their required minimum distribution from their IRA to Beth El. Some congregants choose to donate to Beth El through the contribution of stock. Stock donations can also be applied towards various areas of financial obligation to the synagogue. An end-of-year charitable contribution to Beth El is a wonderful opportunity for all of us to lessen our tax burden and provide a valuable donation to our synagogue.

Your final donation of the calendar year can go toward a fund of your choosing.  Please  click here to make a year-end charitable donation online. If you cannot give today, please consider a gift for the future through the Life & Legacy program.

If you would like to learn more about Life & Legacy, or how you can make a donation to Beth El through the contribution of stock, contact Allison at anewfeld@bethel-omaha.org or (402) 492-8550 .