The New York City Council presented Beth Elohim Hebrew Congregation with a proclamation in recognition of its service to the people of New York. The citation was presented on August 29, 2014 by Councilman Daneek Miller who was elected to represented the 27th District which includes the neighborhood of Saint Albans where Beth Elohim is located.
In his remarks Councilman Miller said that Beth Elohim Hebrew Congregation has been a “beacon of light to Southeast Queens for over thirty years.” Our educational programs, food distribution, clothing drives, and youth outreach efforts all help to improve the world in which we live. State Senator Leroy Comrie, who preceded Mr. Miller in the City Council, is a long-time friend of Beth Elohim Hebrew Congregation.
Rabbi Sholomo B. Levy was also presented with a proclamation from the City Council honoring him for his distinguished leadership of Beth Elohim and for being a voice of reason, tolerance, and understanding among the clergy of New York City. In accepting these awards, Rabbi Levy said “we are continuing a tradition set by Rabbi W.A. Matthew in Harlem. Israelites are committed to the principle of תיקון עולם (Tikkun Olum), which means “repairing the world.” He went on to say “we learn these teachings in our synagogues so that we can practice them in our homes, places of work, and in our communities.” We are very proud of the activism of our members such as Deborah Reuban and Gavriel Yehudah who serve on school boards, attend community meetings and rallies, educate voters, and support leaders who advance our values.
As Beth Elohim was honored this year, Israelite congregations that have received similar honors from elected officials of New York City include Commandment Keepers, Bnai Adath, and Beth Shalom. The Black Jews of this city have a long reputation for high moral standards and civic engagement.