LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the 150th Anniversary of Temple
Beth El, of Niagara Falls, New York, to be celebrated on June 4, 2014

WHEREAS, Religious institutions, and the many spiritual, social and
educational benefits they confer, play a vital role in the development
of the moral fabric of a responsible citizenry; and
WHEREAS, It is the tradition of this State and this Nation to pay
tribute to those institutions and individuals who have contributed to
the ethical and spiritual values of their communities; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body takes pleasure in commemorating the
150th Anniversary of Temple Beth El, of Niagara Falls, New York, to be
celebrated on Wednesday, June 4, 2014, with a special Kiddush Luncheon;
and
WHEREAS, The Temple Beth El Synagogue is the oldest continuously-used
Jewish house of worship in Western New York; and
WHEREAS, Formed 150 years ago, the congregation moved into the build-
ing that houses it to this day on October 11, 1914; and
WHEREAS, At its peak, the multigenerational congregation had an active
religious school, and celebrated many life cycle events, including
Consecrations, Bnai Mitzvot, Confirmations, weddings and funerals; and
WHEREAS, The vibrant community of Temple Beth El still holds regular
services and holiday celebrations; although it is too small to support a
full-time rabbi, various members of the congregation lead the services;
there is an active Sisterhood, and the group also gathers for movie
nights, dinners, and other social functions; and
WHEREAS, Connected to the larger community, Temple Beth El also spon-
sors joint functions with churches, participates in many local organiza-
tions, and hosts various fairs and bazaars; and
WHEREAS, Temple Beth El stands on the threshold of tomorrow, prepared
to meet the challenges of the coming decades while retaining that spir-
itual resolve which characterizes its past; and
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to take note of
enduring religious institutions and to bring such institutions to the
attention of the people of this Empire State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 150th Anniversary of Temple Beth El, Niagara Falls, New
York, fully confident that this commemoration reflects the belief in
those values which enhance the dignity and purpose of life; and be it
further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Temple Beth El, Niagara Falls, New York.