Temple
Jeremiah 's Dedication of its sanctuary on December 13, 2002
not only recognized the inspirational leadership of Rabbi
Emeritus Robert D. Schreibman, it also signified the culmination
of extensive remodeling to make the synagogue fully accessible
to congregants and the community at large.
One of the few houses of worship on the North Shore to enjoy
that distinction, Temple Jeremiah underwent a year-long renovation
project with the express aim of making its accommodations
encompassing, yet unobtrusive. The bima is accessible
by ramp, rather than a more awkward chair lift device. The
synagogue features not one, but two, handicapped accessible
entrances.
Facilities inside the building are fully accessible, from
the glass-enclosed gift shop and
Tarshish Lounge to the upstairs classrooms and meeting areas.
These accommodations, along with improved acoustics, lighting,
redesigned parking lots and overall reconfiguration and beautification
of the synagogue, have resulted in a more comfortable, intimate
worship space for congregants and clergy. In addition, with
the help of a grant from the Pathways
Awareness Foundation, Temple Jeremiah was able to install
handicapped accessible doors at its south entry in 2007, making
our house of worship completely accessible to all.
The synagogue was dedicated in honor of Rabbi Schreibman
for providing over 25 years of inspirational leadership to
Temple Jeremiah. During his tenure, the synagogue grew from
under 300 families to over 800. Rabbi Schreibman was instrumental
in establishing youth groups, adult Hebrew and adult education
classes, Mitzvah Day and countless other programs and events.
An active member of the North Shore Jewish
community, Rabbi Schreibman served on the Winnetka Interfaith
Council and was involved in numerous organizations, including
the American Jewish Committee, American Jewish Congress,
LINKS, the Holocaust Foundation and the National Federation
of Temple Youth. His retirement in 2000 drew well-wishes
from religious and civic leaders throughout the country,
including President Bill Clinton, Senators Richard Durkin
and Peter Fitzgerald, Representative John Porter and Governor
George Ryan.
Rabbi Schreibman has been succeeded by Rabbi Paul F. Cohen, D.Min., who has
continued Temple Jeremiah's legacy of spiritual commitment and community involvement.
Center for Learning Dedication
December 15, 2002 marked the Dedication of Temple Jeremiah's
Center for Learning, which encompasses
the Hebrew and Religious School, Adult Education classes and
the rich variety of programs, discussions and learning opportunities
available to congregants of all ages.
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