Embracing change with gratitude, reflection and anticipation at Temple B’nai Israel

Change, although often accompanied by mixed emotions, is an inherent reality of any community. The Board of Trustees of Temple B’nai Israel is leading transitions that carry great significance for the congregation, leadership and enduring legacy. With deep gratitude, reflection and anticipation, the board shares some important developments.

Throughout TBI’s history, the congregation has been shaped and sustained by individuals who have given generously of their time, wisdom and passion. As there are transitions in significant leadership roles, the board honors those who helped guide members. Each chapter of the synagogue’s journey has been enriched by the dedication of leadership, volunteers, members and communities who have embodied values and traditions.

Leadership transitions

The board extends appreciation to Rabbi Jan Katz, cantorial soloist Melody Funk and her husband, Joel, piano accompanist. Their contributions have been many and varied, from guiding the congregation through times of celebration and challenge, to fostering a sense of unity and purpose. Their voices and inspiration will continue to echo in the sanctuary and the lives they touched.

For the past three years, Katz brought meaningful worship, life cycle guidance, Torah study, pastoral care and interfaith outreach in congregational and community settings.

Perhaps most importantly, the congregation will always treasure Katz's ability to interpret biblical passages to teach and engage. An even in the most difficult times, her smart sense of humor helped share the joys, and even the "oys" of being Jewish in today’s reality.

The Funks served as the musical cantorial duo and proverbial thread to generations of families. Congregants who worshiped at TBI starting in the 1960s had the joy of experiencing the Funks' debut in the 1980s. Their special blend of music offered warm welcomes and inspiration to all.

Recently, TBI bid farewell to the Funks. This milestone marks the end of an era defined by a voice that carried the prayers, hopes and spirit of generations. For more than 30 years, the couple was the heart of musical worship, weaving melodies into the fabric of the congregation's faith.

Welcoming new leadership

With gratitude for the past, the board now turns to the future. Rabbi Andy Bachman was welcomed as the spiritual leader of Temple B’nai Israel on July 11. Bachman’s diverse experiences and enlivening spirit promise to enrich the TBI community.

At the heart of his rabbinic work is the teaching of Shimon HaTzadik in Pirke Avot: “The world stands on three things; Torah, avodah and gemilut hasadim — learning, worship and deeds of lovingkindness.”

A fervent believer in the uniqueness and depth of experience in small town Jewish life, along with the preservation of history, memory and civic responsibility, Bachman has also served as guest rabbi in several communities through the Institute of Southern Jewish life, as well as Sioux City, Iowa, and Sioux Falls, South Dakota. In addition, he is at work on efforts to preserve Jewish legacies, buildings and cemeteries in smaller communities across the Midwest, and has traveled to Belarus and Lithuania to support efforts at the memorialization of destroyed Jewish communities in those areas.

Bachman offered greetings to the members of TBI, “as we start this journey together, let’s celebrate who we are, and the sacred tradition we are called upon to fulfill. And let’s go from strength to strength in doing what is just and right to build a world of peace and lovingkindness for TBI Laconia and our neighbors, for our nation, for Israel and for our world.” Contact Rabbi Andy Bachman at rabbi@tbinh.org.