(Courtesy of Mikvah of Englewood) The Rebbetzin Peggy Gopin Weiss Mikvah of Englewood celebrated its second annual dinner event on November 12 at Kehilat Kesher.
Over 200 women from Bergen County and beyond joined together for a beautiful evening to recognize the importance of the mikvah and the central role it plays in both religious law and life. The crowd comprised a diverse mix of women, encompassing all four Englewood shuls and a wide range of age groups. It was a real feel-good evening and a resounding success thanks to all of those who attended and donated to support the mikvah.
The evening opened with Debbie Block, wife of Rabbi Akiva Block of Kehilat Kesher, leading the group in the recitation of Tehillim in solidarity with the people of Israel. Leslie Kanner, president of the Englewood Mikvah Association, and Careena Parker, director of mikvah operations, educated guests about the mikvah’s history and heritage, stressing that the beautifully maintained structure is an independent institution and foundational pillar of the community. Attendees of the event enjoyed a delicious dinner and heard from featured guest speaker Dini Klein, chef, food host and founder of Prep + Rally. Select Prep + Rally recipes were featured on the dinner menu as well. Each table featured a beautiful centerpiece generously donated by Elisa Freilich of Rosepops (www.rosepops.com) as well as a Prep + Rally week-long meal packet that included a shopping list, meal prep instructions and recipes.
Stunning artwork by Israeli artist Enya Keshet commissioned specifically to be displayed in the mikvah was featured at the event. The prints portray various prayers and blessings that women can recite at key lifecycle events and times of ritual, including upon giving birth, lighting candles and separating challah. Select paintings are still available for dedication.
The mikvah’s usage fees do not cover its operating budget. Donations to support the mikvah are always welcome and building dedication opportunities are still available. Donations can be made at https://www.englewoodmikvah.org/makeadonation.aspx. Anyone who is interested in dedicating either the artwork or learning about the other building dedication opportunities can contact [email protected]. For more information about the Englewood mikvah or to make an appointment, please visit www.englewoodmikvah.org.
