Inspiring Others and Illuminating Brotherhood

Keeper of the Flame continues to burn brightly

On Sunday, Oct. 26, the New England Region of FJMC International was proud to gather at Temple Israel of Natick (MA) for the annual “Keeper of the Flame” (KOF) awards ceremony.

Keeper of the Flame, the storied basis for the Ma’asim Tovim and Man of the Year programs that every FJMC region now holds, is the highest recognition that New England’s clubs can bestow on one of their members.

The program began in 2001 to enable each synagogue’s Men’s Club or Brotherhood to honor one of their greatest contributors – someone who inspires others to rise to a greater purpose. Metaphorically, these Keepers of the Flame illuminate the darkness to keep the fires of brotherhood burning across their congregations and the entire regional community.

This year’s Keeper of the Flame honorees, all in Massachusetts, included:

• Herb Daroff of Congregation Beth Israel in Worcester
• Mark Gershlak of Temple Ner Tamid in Peabody
• Arnie Harris of Temple Aliyah in Needham
• Gary Keimach of Temple Israel of Sharon in Sharon
• Max Klein of Temple Emunah in Lexington
• Marc Silver of B’nai Tikvah in Canton
• Adam Steinberg of Temple Emanuel in Newton
• Adam Wilen of Temple Israel of Natick in Natick
• Neil Wilson of Congregation Ahavas Achim in Newburyport

“I believe that one of the most powerful words in the English language is with,” said NER President Marty Paley, speaking to a packed audience at Temple Israel of Sharon about the importance of coming together to support one another.

“Men’s Club is all about being with each other in good and bad times,” Paley continued. “Time is a precious commodity that we all wish we had more of. We can make the most of it with others. Our clubs can be a place for men to learn, to enjoy, to discuss, and to simply be with each other.”