When Beth Tikvah families need him most, Joel Sacks is there

For the past 10 years, Joel Sacks has been volunteering at Beth Tikvah Congregation in Hoffman Estates.

"For me, volunteering is somewhat genetic," said the Schaumburg resident. "Back in the '40s, my grandmother was the founder of Northwest Home, a Jewish retirement home still in existence. My parents always volunteered at their temple."

Now, a third generation is in the giving-back business. Along with Larry Bernstein, Sacks co-chairs the Ritual Committee. One of his duties involves Shabbat.

"Shabbat is the seventh day of the week; our day of rest and worship," said Rabbi Max Weiss of Beth Tikvah. "It begins Friday at sunset and ends on Saturday at sunset.  On Shabbat we join together in the synagogue and give thanks to God for our world and our lives."

"Preparing the synagogue for Shabbat services involves setting up two candles to be lit at the beginning of the service, and setting out a Kiddush Cup of wine used during the Kiddush prayer (blessing over the wine)," said Sacks. "We also light the Yarhtzeit board. These are memorial plaques dedicated to deceased loved ones and a light is next to each one."

Sacks also plays a big role in the bar and bat mitzvahs.

"At the age of 13, Jewish boys and girls, in the reform and conservative traditions, become bar or bat mitzvah and are able to participate fully in the ritual life of our community," said Rabbi Weiss. "At Beth Tikvah Congregation and many other synagogues they celebrate that by leading our worship services."

Sacks is active in these ceremonies. He and Bernstein meet with families about six months before the event to answer questions for them and explain synagogue customs. Families really count on them at this memorable moment in their lives.

"Preparation for the bar/bat mitzvah services involves assisting the family with anything they need before the service," said Sacks. "This may include putting out special kippot (head coverings) and greeting and directing guests. No special ritual objects are used during this service."

Sacks and Bernstein face challenges at the High Holy Days. Because attendance is up at this time of year, space issues are a concern.

"Since the sanctuary at Beth Tikvah isn't large enough to hold our entire congregation at one time, we hold some of the High Holy Day services at Holy Family Parish in Inverness," Sacks said. "We bring over various items needed during the service such as the candlesticks and wine as used on Shabbat; a portable Ark which contains the Torah (Hebrew Bible), and the Eternal Light that shines over the Ark. "

The 52-year-old has also volunteered on the Membership Committee, the Beth Tikvah Men's Club and the Rabbi Search Committee. For five years, he has sung with the temple's choir.

"Joel is a mensch. He is a man who contributes his time and energy to our community," said Rabbi Weiss. "He is a thoughtful and caring individual who is always available to lend a helping hand and to step in when he sees work that needs to be done."