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Temple Judea just concluded a powerful and uplifting Artist-in-Residence Weekend featuring acclaimed and award-winning Jewish composer and musician Elana Arian, bringing together hundreds of congregants and community members for three days of worship, learning, and service.
Held January 30 through February 1, 2026, the “I Have a Voice Weekend”, inspired by Elana Arian’s original song, I Have a Voice, infused the Temple Judea campus with song, reflection, and shared purpose. Through inspiring services, interactive learning, and hands-on community action, participants experienced the transformative power of Jewish music and values in action.
A Weekend of Connection and Inspiration
The weekend opened with a vibrant Shabbat Shirah service, featuring Elana Arian alongside Rabbi Judith Siegal, Rabbi Jonathan Fisch, Cantor Lisa Segal; the catalyst for this dynamic weekend; special guest musicians and the Temple Judea’s Adult Choir. Following this meaningful service, Temple Judea hosted a festive community dinner. Later that evening, congregants gathered for Music as Midrash, an engaging exploration of Jewish liturgical music and worship traditions featuring Arian.
Saturday morning began with a soulful Minyan and Torah Study, blending prayer, learning, and music.
And the day ended with Temple Judea Torah Circle members gathering for an intimate Havdalah and dinner reception, generously hosted by Dr. & Mrs. Sandford Rakofsky at their lovely home. Guests enjoyed a special mini-concert and reflections from our clergy.
Mitzvah Day Brings “I Have a Voice” to Life
The weekend culminated in a meaningful Mitzvah Day co-chaired by Serena Goodman and Sharon Newman in partnership with our Social Action Network Co-Chairs, Shelley Booken, Charlotte Cassel, and Carly Weiss. The morning began with a special performance by Elana Arian and the Temple Judea Kids Choir, setting the tone for a day dedicated to service and compassion.
Community members participated in hands-on projects benefiting organizations including:
- Voices for Children
- Project Sunshine
- Friends of the IDF
- Lasagna Love
- Gift of Life Bone Marrow Registry
Additional initiatives included blood and platelet donations, a children’s book drive, letter writing to IDF soldiers, youth-led fundraising efforts, and community-building activities for families and teens.
Strengthening Jewish Life in South Florida
Throughout the weekend, participants expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to connect more fully to their faith, their community, and one another.
“This weekend reminded us of the extraordinary power of music to open hearts, build bridges, and inspire action,” said Cantor Lisa Segal. “Elana Arian’s presence elevated every moment and strengthened our shared commitment to living our Jewish values.”
“I Have a Voice Weekend” was made possible through the generous support of the Eric B. Meyers Scholar-in-Residence Fund and Cantor Lisa Segal’s Mitzvah Fund.
About Temple Judea
Founded in 1948, Temple Judea is a vibrant Reform Jewish congregation in Coral Gables, dedicated to worship, learning, community engagement, and social justice. Through innovative programming and meaningful partnerships, Temple Judea continues to enrich Jewish life in South Florida.
