July 2025

Jewish life has always been about community. Whether gathered

around a Shabbat table, coming together for learning, or

supporting one another through life’s ups and downs, we thrive

work, when we connect.

I’m not a fisherman, nor do I have a great passion for the sea.

However, I recognize the logic that if you cast a wider net, you

catch more fish. Lately, we’ve been asking ourselves an

important question: How can we reach more people in a meaningful

way? How can we cast a wider net? That question has sparked some

exciting growth—new programs, fresh ideas, and a renewed

focus on inclusion.

Family-friendly holiday celebrations, Shabbat Services, and

a variety of new program opportunities over this coming

year are just some of the things we are focusing on here at

CBI. We’re expanding what we offer and how we offer it.

We’re aiming to meet people where they are, while still

holding onto the values that ground us.

This work isn’t just about adding more events to the calendar.

It’s about creating more entry points—more ways for

people to say, “Yes, this is for me.” Whether someone is

deeply connected to Jewish tradition, is rediscovering their

roots, or is starting to explore for the first time, we want

them to feel like there’s a place at CBI for them.

Of course, building a broader, more welcoming community

takes all of us. If you’ve been here a while, we invite you to

help us welcome those who are new. If you’ve been on the

edges, we hope you’ll come a little closer. If you have ideas

or feedback—or just want to talk—we’d love to hear from

you.

Let’s continue this journey together. Let’s cast a wider net

and make our community not only bigger, but stronger,

more inclusive, and more connected than ever.

Warmly,

Elliott McCarthy

Spiritual Leader