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Temple Beth David Leadership Updates – A Note from Temple President, Ken Marenus
Dear Temple Beth David Members,
I am pleased to share that the pulpit committee has successfully concluded its work, and the Board of Directors has officially approved the hiring of an interim Rabbi for the coming year. An interim Rabbi will serve with us for one year, guiding our congregation as we consider and define our path forward. This individual will play a vital role in helping us identify the qualities and skills we are seeking in our search for a “settled Rabbi.”
Introducing Dr. Rabbi Kari Tuling
Our new interim Rabbi is Dr. Rabbi Kari Tuling. She brings a deep commitment to both the spiritual and intellectual dimensions of Reform Judaism. Rabbi Tuling is the author of the book Thinking about God: Jewish Views and has taught at the seminary. She has received specialized training for this process and has previously assisted other congregations in selecting a permanent Rabbi. Most recently, she served in Washington, D.C. Rabbi Tuling will begin her tenure with us on July 1, 2026. Once she arrives, there will be opportunities for everyone to welcome her to Temple Beth David.
Congratulations to Dr. Marjorie Gursky
I would also like to invite you to join me in congratulating Dr. Marjorie Gursky on her recent promotion to Director of Jewish Education and Family Engagement at Temple Beth David. Dr. Gursky’s dedicated and successful leadership has raised our religious school to a high standard, and we all wish her continued success in her new position.
We are aware that we are in a considerable transition, but we continue looking forward to the evolution of Temple Beth David into a new and highly productive era.
Temple Beth David Events
About Us
Our History
Temple Beth David is a Reform congregation founded more than 50 years ago. In 1961, a small group of Jewish…
Worship
We are a Reform congregation and a member of the Union for Reform Judaism, the largest Movement of Jews in…
Our Mission
Temple Beth David is built upon three cornerstones: WE ARE A SACRED COMMUNITY בְּצֶלֶם אֱלהִים בָּרָה אתוֹ B’Tzelem Elohim bara…
The Visionary View:
A Newsletter about the Temple’s Upcoming Plans -May Edition
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Dear Temple Beth David Devotees and Friends,
It is with profound respect for tradition and a spirit of joyful anticipation that we present the next edition of a new Temple Newsletter: The Visionary View, dedicated entirely to the exciting plans taking shape for our sacred space. The Temple has long served as a sanctuary—a place for reflection, community, and celebration of spiritual heritage. As we look to the months and years ahead, we are thrilled to share our vision for growth, connection, and renewal.
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There have been questions about how the proceeds from the sale of the building are being managed and invested. We want to reassure the congregation that these funds have been placed with Charles Schwab in a diversified, professionally managed investment strategy designed to preserve principal while earning a responsible return.
Our goal is to ensure that the proceeds from the sale work for us while we are still experiencing a shortfall of funds each month as we navigate our existing expenses, with the goal of reducing our overhead (salaries, operating expenses etc.) in the coming years. In addition, we will need funds to make modifications to the portion of the building we have on lease from NSSA, to serve the Temple’s needs in our much smaller footprint, plans of which are in discussion (see Renovations and Enhancements section below).
At the same time, it’s important to be realistic about our current financial situation. Our operating budget remains very tight, and we are still running a significant deficit. Leadership is working diligently to address this by closely examining expenses, identifying new sources of revenue, and reviewing our dues structure. While balancing the budget will be a challenge, we are approaching this work thoughtfully and carefully. We are optimistic that through this process we can develop a sustainable plan that puts the congregation on firmer financial footing for the future. -
Applications for the position of Interim Rabbi will come to us as candidates apply over the winter months. The Pulpit Committee is currently interviewing several candidates for the position of Interim Rabbi. We are in the first interview stage for some candidates and the second interview phase for others. We will continue to move the process forward with the current candidates as new applications arrive so that we do not lose potential desirable candidates.
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The energy and warmth of our Temple come from the hearts and hands of our devotees. As these plans unfold, we welcome everyone to participate—whether by joining one of these critical planning committees (Construction, Interior Design, Communications), volunteering your time, or simply sharing your thoughts with us.
You will be invited to smaller update meetings that will encourage those ideas, as well as answer any questions. Your voice matters in shaping our future. If you are interested, please reach out to Beverly Wolcott at lbjrde@aol.com.
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In the months ahead, we will provide regular updates on the progress of these projects. We invite you to follow our newsletter, visit our website, and stop by the Temple to witness the transformation firsthand. Together, we honor the legacy of those who built this sacred place and lay a foundation for those who will find solace here for generations to come. For more information or questions about this newsletter, please contact Laura Joseph (laura.i.joseph@gmail.com) or Diane Kraut (dianekraut@optimum.net).
May the Temple continue to shine as a beacon of peace, wisdom, and unity for all.
With blessings and gratitude,
The Temple Board and Steering Committee
We are here to stay…
To secure our future for many years to come, we have sold our building to Nassau Suffolk Services for Autism (NSSA). Through this arrangement, we will stay in our home for at least the next 20 years. Together, Temple Beth David and NSSA are committed to serving our respective communities at the highest standard possible.