We shared in a banner year at Or Chayim.

We had gatherings on Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur, 9 Shabbats, our first aufruf and a conversation on Iran. We learned about partners like OneTable and A Wider Bridge.

We are growing. Our average Friday night attendance for the year was above 70 people. We have sold out 3 of our last 4 dinners and are outgrowing our space.

In our Spring survey, nearly 85 respondents listed socializing with fellow gays at the kiddush hour as their highlight.

I want to thank every one of you that has attended or contributed to the feelings of community, friendship and belonging that so many of us feel at Or Chayim.

We are fortunate to have volunteers that work hard to make our events run smoothly and ensure we have a warm, haimish feel. My hope for 5776 is for us to work together to create a sustainable organization to build off our past successes.

Wishing everyone a happy, healthy and amazing new year.