Community's needs are met

Editor: Thank you for your coverage of lay-led services in your recent issue. I found the range and scope of lay-led services described very interesting. I do want to clarify a couple of points made by your reporter regarding the work of the ritual committee and the services offered at Congregation Sha'arei Mizrah (Burquest Jewish Community Association). Although we are a small committee, we have been able to meet the ritual needs of our community, including organizing and leading three b'nai mitzvah over the last three months, as well as organizing and leading services for all of the holidays. As well, we provide support and assistance to our members and the community at large on ritual issues and concerns. We are also very fortunate to access lay leaders from other synagogues who have assisted us when needed. Like most synagogues we have a small but dedicated group of individuals who attend services and actively participate. As our community grows and more members become involved we look forward to being able to increase the number of services offered.

Shelley Rivkin
New Westminster