Wise Stories: High Holy Days 2023 | 5784

There was renewed energy and wonderful spirit at home here on our mountaintop during the High Holy Days this year. In addition to the incredible music, meaningful sermons, and uplifting prayers, members Bryan Behar, Sheryl Cooper, Rabin Pournazarian, and Alex Raminfar shared heartfelt, personal stories of their time at Wise. Each, in their own way, emphasized how Wise has been a home—a haven—through the joys and sorrows of life, and stressed the importance of strengthening and growing the Wise community for the years to come. If you missed their remarks or would like to watch their messages again, you’ll find their words below.

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Bryan Behar

“Where you worship, build community, and raise family matters. For 55 years, Stephen Wise has mattered to me and the people who matter to me. My stories aren’t unique. Everyone here has made their own memories, their own connections to our people’s history and each other.”
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Rabin Pournazarian

“We will forever be grateful for the opportunities that this synagogue has given to our family. Raising our children within the embrace of this temple has been a privilege. It has provided my children with a community where they can learn, grow, and connect with their faith and heritage. It’s become a home where we have forged bonds that will last a lifetime, while supporting each other in times of joy and sorrow.”
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Sheryl Cooper

“Life cycles. This is why Wise is so important to me. Guiding me—us—through our most joyous moments and our deepest painful lows. I spent countless hours with my rabbis. They consoled us while I personally sought ways to find meaning in the times that were so dark. The Wise people created a bridge for the kids and me to show up in a safe place. The temple is nonjudgemental. Truly, this is our safe place. They helped to lift us back up unconditionally. We are eternally grateful for the tradition, spirituality, and community Wise has extended to each of us throughout our lives.”
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Alex Raminfar

“I fondly reminisce about countless life milestones that took place on this hill, the lifelong friends I made (who are still my closest friends). I remember the Purim Carnivals, the Mitzvah Days, and watching in awe as Yitzkhak Rabin spoke in the Sanctuary. I am grateful that our community has been there for some of our biggest celebrations, and for its unwavering support during all our times of tragedy and sorrow.”
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