Newsletter February 26, 2009

www.faithhousemanhattan.org

Greetings Faith House Community,

Change is in the air. It is a part of life. New births, life transitions, and growing pains are all around us. We have a new President of our nation. Our families, friends and communities are facing unprecedented challenges. It is during times like these that we are asked by life, by God, to find peace, to offer peace and to fortify our communities. Faith House Manhattan has also been going through a challenging period and I feel we have risen to the occasion and continue in our pledge to uphold and build an inter-dependent community.

Over these past few months we have moved our "home" to a new space, Intersections, a smaller and more intimate space filled with natural light and accessible to the street at 274 5th Avenue. At Intersections we will hold our Living Room gatherings every 2nd & 4th Saturday of the month. Every 1st & 3rd week, we will venture out to serve and learn from the larger community of New York City, through visits to various communities or sacred sites and by finding opportunities to serve.

We have experienced staffing changes when our beloved Rabbi Jill Minkoff transitioned from her role as our Jewish Co-leader, as she continues her rabbinical school and takes on increasing responsibilities at the Jewish Board of Education. We were also honored to welcome into our circle the beautiful and inspired Rabbi David Ingber, who will very soon join us as our Acting Jewish Co-leader. Some of you may already know him as he has lead and participated in past Living Room gatherings, as well as organized the Hanukkah party this past December. You can learn more about Rabbi David on his website.

With so much positive change and growth we feel blessed, though we have also been met with increasing financial challenges. In a recent interview, former President Bill Clinton beseeched the American people to continue to give to charitable causes. At Faith House Manhattan, we know first hand that with this economic downturn, charitable giving has decreased. While this is understandable, still many feel that in such a time of uncertainty, charitable giving is needed now more than ever. As you may know Faith House functions entirely on personal donations given from the community and we continue to appeal to you for your support. No amount is too small or too great. Thank you.

Love and prayers from Manhattan,

Juliet rabia Gentile
Muslim Co-leader, Faith House Manhattan