As Jewish communities continue to evolve in the wake of isolation and change, Temple Israel is stepping into the 2025 – 2026 year with a renewed focus on connection — not just to tradition, but to each other.
This year, Temple Israel is introducing several new initiatives designed to bring members together in meaningful, mission-driven ways. Among them is a redesigned committee structure, offering congregants the opportunity to lead, serve, and shape synagogue life around core areas such as ritual, music, social action, engagement, and Jewish learning.
Also launching this year are Chavurah Circles — small groups formed around shared interests, values, or life stages. Whether it’s baking challah, hiking on Sunday mornings, playing Mah Jongg, or studying Torah in a relaxed setting, each circle offers a chance to build relationships through the rhythms of Jewish life.
“For some people, synagogue connection begins on the bimah. For others, it might start on a hiking trail or in a kitchen,” said Samantha Fultz, who recently completed her first year as Temple Israel’s director of membership and engagement. “Our goal is to help people find belonging in ways that feel natural, joyful, and deeply personal .”
After several quieter years, Temple Israel is also revitalizing its Young Professionals group, creating new space for leadership, friendship, and Jewish community for those in their 20s and 30s.
These efforts reflect a broader shift in how the congregation sees membership: not just as an annual renewal, but as an ongoing relationship between individuals and community.
“Temple life looks different for everyone, ”Fultz said. “What matters is knowing there’s a place for you when you show up — whether that’s for a class, a celebration, or a quiet moment of prayer.”
Now entering her second year in the role, Fultz says her first twelve months have been filled with conversations — stories of what draws people to Temple Israel, what keeps them connected, and what they hope to build together.
It’s this sensory richness — the melodies of Shabbat, the smell of fresh challah, the laughter during holiday celebrations — that she believes defines Jewish communal life.
“We want to create spaces where people feel seen, supported, and inspired,” she said.“ Where every individual can make Judaism their own — and where tradition feels both rooted and alive.”
As Temple Israel prepares for the coming year, the invitation is simple: whether you’ve been a member for decades, are new to Charlotte, or are simply seeking a deeper connection, there’s a place for you here.
Membership isn’t just for those who attend services every week or volunteer on committees. Membership is for everyone:
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The one who finds peace in the quiet moments of prayer.
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The one who wants to dance at Purim and light up Chanukah. The one who needs a community to lean on during life’s hardest moments.
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The one who is searching for deeper connection, meaning, and friendship.
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As membership renewal approaches, I invite you to renew not just your membership, but your connection to something bigger: to tradition, to community, and to a place where you are truly seen and valued.
For more information about membership, programming, or upcoming Chavurah Circles, contact Samantha Fultz at [email protected] or ( 980 ) 960-2380.
