Rabbi Azriel Blumberg

How does one define a "great shul"? Does one look at the size or architecture of the edifice? Is it achieved through signing up a certain number of members? Is it contingent on acquiring a position of prominence in the community?

In explaining the verse (Melachim II 25) "and every Bayit Gadol [Great House] he burned in fire", the Gemara renders two opinions as to the meaning of the term, Bayit Gadol. According to one, it is referring to a Beit Midrash - "a House in which they increase [lit., make great] the learning of Torah"; according to the other, it is referring to a Beit Haknesset - "a House in which they increase Tefilah." (Megillah 27a).

Clearly, greatness does not lie in one's personal achievements, but in what one is able to give forth. These Houses were called "great" not because of the holiness they contained within, but because of the greatness of that which they imparted to all who entered.

In this sense, Kadimah - Toras Moshe is truly a Bayit Gadol. Within our walls, there is one goal: to give our members a place to thrive in relationships Bein Adam Lamakom [between Man and G-d] and Bein Adam Lachavero [between Man and Man]. In measuring our success, we ask not how great an institution we are, but how great an impact we have had on the lives of our members and their families.

The motto of our shul is, "where all are welcome". We pride ourselves on the fact that Jews of all backgrounds find in KTM a spiritual home; a place where they can feel comfortable relating to G-d and forging their path to further growth in Torah and Tefilah. Our legendary Ahavat Yisrael has fostered many close friendships that often transcend the limitations of geographic proximity.

We hope you will come and see for yourself what Kadimah has to offer. Join in with our tefilot and classes, with our programs and events, with our families and with the extended Kadimah family. We are confident that you will find KTM to be a "great shul"; our goal is to help you bring out the greatness that is within yourself!

Rabbi Azriel and Michal Blumberg