The JCC is a “big tent,” and we aspire to be as hospitable and welcoming to our guests as Abraham was in the Bible. If I could, I would rebuild the JCC with four entrances facing each direction so that people could join with us from any place…not just geographical ly but inclusive of those with varying ideologies, ages, abilities, interests and means.

If the JCC is truly to be the CENTER of the Jewish community and a welcoming environment for all, we must be diverse, compassionate and collaborative. We need to embrace Jews of all denominations, those who do not affiliate, and those who have married people of other faiths. The JCC’s mission is to inspire Jewish journeys as a barrier-free entry point for Jewish community involvement and by teaching Jewish values and principles through informal education, programs and experiences, no matter who you are or where you are on your personal journey.

Our membership reflects the diverse society we live in. People come from all walks of life and do not necessarily look alike or sound alike. They come for different reasons and with varying levels of ability. They are all ages, sizes and shapes and from varied backgrounds and places. They all come to be in a place where they feel comfortable and welcome. Whether it’s in the gym or the pool, over lunch or in the classroom, as families or as individuals, we welcome you.

In our tent, we want to inspire and engage further awareness of what it means to be Jewish. This is done in so many ways: Community-wide Jewish holiday celebrations, through Hebrew music in our lobby, an adult learning class on the Bible, weekly Shabbat celebrations at our Early Childhood Center, or a conference for the Special Needs community about Nourishing the Jewish Soul.

On Feb. 12, join us for a Greek Kosher Food & Wine Extravaganza featuring top local chefs. In March, we are proud to feature Jewish author Harlan Coben as part of our year-long Bank of America Festival of Arts, Books and Culture. And in April, we continue our award-winning Cherry Hill Volvo Jewish Film Festival of the Katz JCC. The film festival celebrates the best in Jewish film from around the world.

Laugh with us, learn with us, eat with us and play with us…but most important be a part of us. This year make our JCC your JCC and be among friends. We do so many things and yet we want to hear from you about how we can better meet your needs and interests.

Want to comment? You can reach me at lcohen @jfedsnj.org.