Our Confirmation group recently returned from an unforgettable journey to New York City—an experience filled with learning, reflection, celebration, and plenty of classic NYC moments.
The trip began with excitement as our students arrived in the Big Apple, ready to explore the history, culture, and Jewish life that make New York such a meaningful destination.
Over the course of the trip, the group engaged deeply with both American and Jewish history. They visited the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, reflecting on immigration and identity, and explored the Tenement Museum and Lower East Side, bringing those stories to life. At the 9/11 Memorial, students paused for remembrance, while a visit to Strawberry Fields offered a moment of peace and reflection.
Shabbat in the city was a true highlight. The group welcomed Shabbat together at Central Synagogue, experiencing the beauty and energy of Jewish worship in a historic and vibrant congregation. Later, they shared a special dinner that included retirement blessings for Morah Maxine, marking an important and heartfelt moment in our community.
Of course, the trip also embraced the full New York experience—complete with bagels and schmear, a lively evening at Sammy’s Romanian Steakhouse, a performance of The Outsiders on Broadway, and a nighttime walk through the bright lights of Times Square. From Greenwich Village to Crown Heights, each day was packed with discovery, connection, and growth.
On their final day, the group explored Hasidic Crown Heights in Brooklyn, visiting a mikvah, the iconic 770 synagogue, a wig shop, and a matzah factory. In a memorable and unexpected moment, they even met Hasidic rapper Ari B. Lesser.
The journey home, however, brought unexpected challenges. After a lengthy delay at airport security caused them to miss their flight, the group made the decision to stay overnight and catch an early flight the next morning. What began as an adventure soon became more complicated due to a tragic accident that impacted travel plans, requiring a quick rebooking and a move to JFK Airport. After a long and tiring travel experience—eventually arriving home about 15 hours behind schedule—the group was finally reunited with their families.
Throughout it all, our students showed remarkable resilience, patience, and care for one another. They handled both the joyful and the difficult moments with maturity and grace, making us incredibly proud.
Morah Maxine, Amy Fleisher, and Randy Fleisher shared how deeply meaningful it was to guide this group through the full experience—celebrating the highs and navigating the challenges together.
We are so proud of this incredible class and all they have learned and shared on this journey.
We invite the congregation to join us for the Confirmation Service on Friday, May 8 at 6:15 pm, where we will celebrate and learn from these remarkable students as they mark this important milestone.
