3rd Annual Interfaith Concert at Temple Beth Tikvah
The third annual interfaith concert organized by the Rabbi Israel S. Dresner Center, Jewish Historical Society, and Temple Beth Tikvah, featuring musical performances by Tavim from Congregation Beth Shalom and the First AME Zion Church choir from Paterson.
The event began with Rabbi Brian Beale delivering an invocation about the power of interfaith cooperation to combat hatred and racism, followed by Temple President Arthur Barchenko expressing gratitude for the partnership and mentioning enhanced security measures due to recent threats against religious institutions.
The concert featured Tavim performing Israeli pop, Yiddish, and Ladino songs, and the gospel choir presented traditional spirituals and contemporary pieces, with both groups collaborating on the final song "I Need You To Survive."
The evening concluded with special presentations recognizing Rabbi Lewis Paulson and Skip Van Rensselaer for their contributions to the interfaith program, as both were leaving their positions to pursue new ventures out of state.
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Arthur Barchenko of the Rabbi Israel S Dresner Center opening the evening.
Rabbi Brian K. Beal giving the opening Invocation.
Tavim. The multi-generational a cappella group of Congregation Beth Sholom of Teaneck.
Rabbi Louis Polisson playing guitar for one of the folk songs sung by Tavim.
The Combined Choirs of The First A.M.E. Zion Church of Paterson, N.J.
Soloist Terri Collins for the song “I am Saved”
“Skip” Van Rensalier, Minister of Music and Musical Director
Joy Kurlend, “Skip” Van Rensalier, Rabbi Louis Polisson, Rabbi Brian K. Beal and Aurthur Barchenko