Congregation Etz Chaim

06/20/2026

Our 1st Shabbat Potluck of this season last night was attended by 21 and as usual quite a success. Joined by Temple Emanuel [TEE], some former members, as well as led by Congregation Etz Chaim’s [CEC] Rabbi Sandra Katz accompanied by TEE Cantorial Soloist Charlene Sommers. With the wind, cool temperature and although the rain threat was diminished, we set up inside the Social Hall vs outside. After a long winter the grill stored outside was uncooperative, however we had the kitchen and Alan Priceman's grill as back up. Hots, hamburgers and impossible burgers rolled... Plenty of service, song and sustenance. See you at our July 17th and August 21st potlucks, the latter our bring a friend membership opportunity. Shabbat Shalom. CEC President Ray Mondschein.

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05/01/2026

The Rochester JCC Authors + Innovators Festival Spring Speaker Series presents

Rabbi Shira Stutman
The Jewish Way to a Good Life: Find Happiness, Build Community, and Embrace Lovingkindness

Monday, May 11, 7pm

From love and s*x, to mourning and money, Rabbi Shira visits ten realms where we all get lost on occasion to deliver spirited, surprising wisdom. Hear practical, time-tested ways to enrich our daily routines.
Underwritten by Mona Friedman Kolko

Register now at https://jccrochester.org/arts-culture/jewish-book-festival/

Up next in the Authors + Innovators Festival Spring Speaker Series...

Monday, May 11, 7pm
Rabbi Shira Stutman
The Jewish Way to a Good Life: Find Happiness, Build Community, and Embrace Lovingkindness

From love and s*x, to mourning and money, Rabbi Shira visits ten realms where we all get lost on occasion to deliver spirited, surprising wisdom. Hear practical, time-tested ways to enrich our daily routines.

Underwritten by Mona Friedman Kolko

Register now at https://jccrochester.org/arts-culture/jewish-book-festival/

12/22/2025

Hanukkah Sameach from Congregations Etz Chaim and Emanu-El! Our tables saw a great variety of menorahs this year bringing light to the wonderful occasion...

12/12/2025

11/27/2025

How many people can you fit in your sukkah? This photo from Etz Chaim's last Sukkot feels appropriate today, as both that and Thanksgiving are harvest holidays, as well as days of gratitude and welcoming. Hope your Thanksgiving holiday is full of warmth and cheer!

11/15/2025

This September, Congregation Etz Chaim honored member Joseph Meyers, who selflessly lent his time and energy to the role of religious leader in the wake of Rabbi David Abrahams' passing. Joseph's effort allowed us to keep our holiday and shabbat schedule, sustaining us with vital energy until the hiring of our new rabbi, Dr. Sandra Katz. Joseph continues to be a valued member of the Etz Chaim community, bolstering us with his bountiful smile and radiant voice.

09/25/2025

Congregation Etz Chaim closed Rosh Hashanah services with a traditional Tashlich at the boat launch with Rabbi Sandra Katz. May there be a sweet year in store for us all; Shana Tova!