Neighbors Helping Neighbors during the High Holy Days

The High Holy Days are among the busiest times of the year around the Genesis building. As worshippers gather to enter the sanctuary, Temple Beth Emeth faces practical challenges: parking spaces fill up quickly and security becomes more challenging.

One of the things that makes Genesis so special is how our diversity becomes a strength in moments like this. When one congregation is stretched, others step forward. Each year during Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, members of St. Clare’s Episcopal Church join TBE volunteers to help with parking and to keep more watchful eyes on the building and its surroundings. Their presence reminds us that our partnership is about more than shared walls—it’s about shared community.

TBE stalwart Phil Barr summed it up simply:

It’s wonderful [that STC and Blue Ocean come out for this]. It’s part of what makes this place so great.

Marilyn Creswell of Blue Ocean Faith

Even though she’s brand new to Blue Ocean Faith, Marilyn Creswell volunteered immediately after hearing an announcement made at church last Sunday.

“I think it’s a neat community event. When people ask for help, I sign up. I’m happy to be here. Sign me up anytime!”

Linda Klimach of St. Clare’s has been volunteering faithfully for several years. She recalls first helping with security during a tense year when local Jewish congregations, the JCC, and even St. Clare’s Church faced bomb threats. “We were walking the halls and looking behind bushes and searching the window wells to make sure there was nobody [out there] stalking.”

Linda's commitment is both practical and deeply personal:

Linda Kilmach of STC

“It shouldn’t be a worry at the back of your mind; [TBE congregants] should be able to focus on worship. That’s why we’re here. And I love to come to the early shift, because I like to watch the children’s service. It’s just so wonderful to see all these families coming together.”

The work may look simple, guiding cars, walking the grounds, wearing orange vests, but it speaks volumes about trust, solidarity, and care. As Larry Biederman, a TBE member who has volunteered with parking during the High Holy Days for more than two decades, explained, there are many layers to security. The professionals keep watch over serious threats, checking bags and “packing heat,” but Genesis volunteers serve as “extra eyes,” making sure everyone feels welcomed and supported.

Larry Biederman of TBE works the lot

From the bimah after the Rosh Hashana morning services, TBE President Jack Billi thanked STC volunteers for their support. “Reverend Anne was out there wearing a badge that said ‘Shana Tova’,” he added with a smile.

This partnership during the High Holy Days embodies the best of Genesis: a community where neighbors show up for one another. When one congregation carries a heavier load, others step in, not out of obligation, but out of friendship and shared spirit.