Having your say with Ellen Tilem
Photographed at the David Beyda Studio in Teaneck, NJ.

On Ahavat Yisrael:

If we are one people in the eyes of those that hate us, then we should be able to see each other as Am Echad!

On Music:

True happiness lies somewhere between Mordechai Ben David and Jethro Tull.

On Chazzanut:

A true art form. Every single drei comes from your neshama and is infused with kavanah.

On Teaneck:

If you think there is any place else like it, you need to get out more.

On being Baalat Teshuva:

It’s a combination of what’s inside you, how you see your family’s future, and support from the community, friends, and inspirational Rabbeim (see: “on Teaneck”).

On Motherhood:

Love, patience, deep breaths, and gratitude to Hashem. A glass of wine helps.

On shabbos lamps:

Did you ever realize you left it on all week.

What’s your pet peeve:

“Movie Judaism” drives me crazy… superstitions and inaccuracy. Cleanup aisle 12!

On lockdown:

Math in the kitchen, gemara in the dining room, court in the living room and grief counseling in the guestroom.

On pastoral counseling:

When people are in pain they forget that the Almighty can help and they need a reminder!

Whats your positive message for the future:

There is hope. Hashem is in charge!

Giggles…When did Super Bowl became a chag in this community? It’s fun but I don’t get it!

On Parshat Mishpatim:

Shabbat Shekalim brings on serious Pesach anxiety! When Hashem calls Moshe to come up to the mountain to “be there.” It’s not just for a quick visit. Hashem acknowledges Moshe’s need to have time to build their relationship. Moshe is now able to convey to the Israelites the merit of following The Commandments with a whole heart!

Cantor Ellen Tilem received her Masters, Ordination and Doctorate from the Hebrew Union College. She and her husband, Peter, have three beautiful daughters and one great son-in-law, all living in Teaneck! Shout out to Yeshivat Noam and Yeshivat Frisch where all three girls received exceptional educations! The Tilems have been members of Congregation Bnai Yeshurun for many years. She has served as clergy for Temple Emeth since 1994.

Photos and interview by David Beyda www.davidbeyda.com 

Call David for great headshots for business, shidduch, LinkedIn and for family portraits IG @davidbeydaphotography. 212-967-6964, Studios in Manhattan and Teaneck

Want to be photographed for this series by David Beyda? Email him at [email protected]