Temple Hatikvah Looking to Give During Time of Need

 "The wheel is always turning," said Rabbi Moshe Rudin, leader of Temple Hatikvah, a Conservative synagogue in Flanders which emphasizes education and social action. "Sometimes we're at the top of the wheel, sometimes at the bottom. In our tradition we try to be mindful of the fact that no matter how bad things may be, they never stay that way and circumstances will change."     

Approximately 40 families from Washington Township are members of Temple Hatikvah.

Rudin said he has noticed an increase in people seeking community. He is not sure whether it is related directly to the economy or because things in general have slowed down. 

The temple has hosted three sessions each year over the past two years in financial planning and how to deal with the stress of unemployment and financial struggles.

He said there has also been a considerable increase in people wishing to help and to give. Many people are offering to help seniors in the area and there has been an increase in donations of food.

Temple Hatikvah is a vibrant community consisting of 100 families who enjoy Jewish religious rituals, educational and social events on an on-going basis. The entire community joins together several times a year to offer lawn care and housekeeping services to seniors throughout the area. The Temple also contributes to the community food bank.

At this time of high unemployment, for those who need help finding a job, the Temple refers those in need to the Jewish Vocational Service (JVS), a national organization that provides assistance and training to people of all faiths.

Located in Whippany and East Orange, the JVS offers career placement services, career and educational counseling, free community seminars, and interest free scholarship loans and grants.

Computer software instruction and vocational services for people with disabilities are offered in East Orange.

But in a society that holds in high esteem rugged independence and self-reliance, it may be especially difficult for some people to ask for help – even from their religious organization.

"It is the role of all clergy to be proactive and reach out to those who need help and those who may be at risk and connect them with the resources they need," said Rudin. 

He recognizes that for many who have been self-sufficient and doing well, it may be hard to ask for and receive assistance. "Some people feel very guilty about receiving unemployment for instance, but they should remember that this is something they have paid into, and should accept the assistance if needed." 

"In our tradition, we also remember that there are times when we give and other times when we receive. We should be able to do both. In fact, when you refuse someone's help, in a sense, you are depriving them of the opportunity to give," said Rudin

For those who are experiencing economic difficulties, the religious organizations in the Washington Township area are offering a range of services and assistance. We will be highlighting these offerings in the weeks and months to come. Inspired by the Bible, the message from area spiritual leaders is: ask, and you shall receive.