Start 5760 right by joining a synagogue

Rosh Hashanah is only a week away and for those of you who haven't joined a synagogue, stop delaying.

Your excuses are running thin.

Some of you say you can't afford it. If you truly have a financial problem, there isn't a synagogue that will turn you away.

Synagogue membership is expensive but so are groceries, homes and cars. It costs lots of money to run a synagogue. There's the mortgage. Then comes payroll for the rabbi, cantor, teachers, office staff and janitorial staff. There's building maintenance and grounds maintenance. The list of expenses seems endless, and they are always spiraling.

If most congregants paid what they could afford rather than the minimum dues, synagogues might be able to lower the dues structure. But as it is, most congregations battle each and every year to meet their expenses.

Yet people in need are never turned away for services.

OK, so financial considerations are not what keep you away from a synagogue. Maybe you aren't joining because you don't like to pray or you don't believe in God.

Well, a belief in God has never been required for synagogue membership. It's important to be a member of a congregation and join with other Jews in a community setting.

For many Jews, the synagogue serves as a social center. It's the place where people make lifelong friends. Lots of Jews go to synagogue for evening activities, social events and classes. They do not all go to pray.

The synagogue is the glue that holds the Jewish people together. It's no surprise that Sacramento arsonists targeted three synagogues to show their hatred of Jews. They know that the synagogue continues to be at the center of our universe.

If for no other reason, join a synagogue to show your support of Judaism, the Jewish community and the Jewish people.

Have a healthy and happy new year -- but most importantly, start the new year off in a synagogue.