President’s Message

It is a profound privilege to serve as president of Temple Beth Sholom, a community that has shaped my Jewish journey since childhood. My connection to TBS began when I was 12 years old, when my family moved to Cherry Hill. From that moment -- becoming a Bat Mitzvah with Rabbi Lewis z”l, participating in our historic move from Haddon Heights to Cherry Hill, celebrating my Confirmation, and later standing under the huppah with my husband Geoff as Rabbi Lindemann officiated our wedding -- TBS has been the canvas upon which so many chapters of my life have unfolded.

At its core, our mission guides everything we do: “Temple Beth Sholom is a welcoming and inclusive sacred community that connects its members to one another, Judaism, and Israel through interactive spiritual, educational, and social experiences.” These aren’t just words – they’re lived values that shape our congregation every day.

What makes TBS extraordinary is how it grows with us through every stage of life. I’ve experienced this firsthand -- first as a student, then as a young adult, and later as a parent watching my three daughters thrive in TBS’s nurturing environment. Our synagogue creates meaningful Jewish connections for every member, meeting them where they are and inviting them to deepen their engagement with Jewish tradition, learning, and community.

TBS is a spiritual home where Jewish identity flourishes across generations. Under the guidance of our outstanding clergy and staff, we foster an environment of inclusive learning, meaningful prayer, and genuine connection. From the infectious energy of our Eric B. Jacobs Early Childhood Education Center to the dynamic programs of our Rabbi Albert and Sarah Lewis Religious School and HaMakom High School to the wisdom shared in our adult education programs, TBS offers enriching experiences for every age and stage of Jewish life. We celebrate together, support one another through challenges, deepen our connection to Israel, and continually build a community bound by shared values and traditions.

I hope you’ll explore the many ways to connect with our TBS family. Join us for a Shabbat morning service with our unique, interactive Torah discussion, find comfort at a Healing Service, or experience the warmth of our inclusive Project Yahad service for individuals with disabilities and their families. Our affiliate groups -- Sisterhood, Men’s Club, Young Members Group, and Hazak -- offer exciting programs throughout the year. Sing in our choir, volunteer with Social Action, or join our daily minyanim. From baby namings to B’nai Mitzvah to supporting each other through life’s challenges, TBS is truly a family. Each member brings unique perspectives that enrich our collective experience. Whether TBS has been your spiritual home for generations or you’re just beginning to explore Jewish community, your presence strengthens the tapestry of our congregation.

The relationships we build, the traditions we share, and the values we uphold together create something extraordinary—a kehillah kedoshah, a sacred community that nurtures Jewish identity and connection for generations to come. I look forward to sharing this journey with you.

B’Sholom,
Jill Hammel