Q&A with Fresia James
Q: Where did you grow up?
Fresia: I was born in Chile; where I grew up having a wonderful childhood in the home of my grandparents. It was a small town where everyone was involved in their community, much like in Temple Emanu-El. Neighbors knew neighbors, and everyone was there to lend a helping hand.
Q: How long have you been involved (or, a member) at Temple Emanu-El?
Fresia: I initially came to Temple Emanu-El seventeen years ago, where my husband, Aston then introduced me to Rabbi Irving Lehrman (blessed be his memory), ritual director Rabbi Klein and Cantor Yehuda Shifman. Since then, a wonderful friendship was instilled, as I attended the morning minyan on several occasions - being the only woman attending at the time. There, I met wonderful individuals like Frank Cholodofsky, and Toby whose warm kind spirit attracted many to the temple; including me and my family. I was fortunate enough to have my son, Max Samuel’s Brit Milah in 2000, this served as my first true personal celebration and mitzvah at Temple Emanu-El. Many [celebrations] followed as I then had my two daughters', Goldie and Rachel’s Bat Mitzvah ceremonies at Temple Emanu-El.
Q: We are very fortunate that you decided to join our congregation. What drew you/draws you to Emanu-El? Are there aspects of our congregation which you've found to be unique?
Fresia: Temple Emanu-El is a place where anyone can come and feel welcomed. I have often found the temple’s services heartwarming, as the music and prayers soothe the soul after a week of dealing with the outside world. I can truly say that Temple Emanu-El is a light amidst Miami Beach. Temple Emanu-El is a legacy that we are all fortunate enough to enjoy. It was founded by a group of great visionaries, lead by Rabbi Irving Lehrman, looking to the future, and advocating the ideals of the Torah. Our community today serves as a testimony to the world, representing the endurance, and perseverance of the Jewish people.
Q: What's your favorite activity or aspect of the congregation?
Fresia: I love the services. The inclusiveness of the services serves as a reminder that we represent the past, the present, and the future; in one congregation. As long as this is cherished, this will continue to bring us hope for the days to come. Our congregation is unique as the members are extraordinary human beings, with a brilliant neshama.
Q: Do have a favorite Temple Emanu-El moment or memory?
Fresia: My appreciation for Temple Emanu-El began when I saw the fruit it bore when my children began singing in the choir and blowing the shofar on high holidays, along with other children such as JJ Lehrman and Amy Zelcer. This experience showed me just how welcoming and incorporating Temple Emanu-EL was - and still is; it is a second home. This experience reminded me of my childhood memories of my grandfather blowing “el cuerno de carnero” (shofar).
Q: What would you say is the Jewish holiday you find most meaningful?
Fresia: Pesah is the holiday that I find most meaningful. It serves as a reminder of the values and tradition that we have to uphold for future generations; just as our ancestors did. As we settle down, and go through the Passover meal in sequence, we must remember that it represents the order, just as everything has its own space in time.
Q: Do you have a favorite tzedakah project -- through volunteering, contributions, or other support?
Fresia: Along with my children, I cherish volunteering for others and towards a meaningful cause. It gives me great pleasure to know that, with one little act of kindness, one may change a life, or an atmosphere. Whether it be arranging flowers for the Shabbat service, volunteering for the homebound elderly, helping homeless find shelter and comfort or advocating with our Christian brothers and sisters towards a common cause for Israel, I take pride in helping my community.
Q: What is an area of Jewish learning you'd like to explore more?
Fresia: I have always had an interest in kaballah (Jewish mysticism). This is an area which in the future I would love to pursue in learning.
Q: Do you have a Jewish figure or role-model that you admire (contemporary or past)?
Fresia: I have always had great respect and admiration for the legacy and teachings of Rabbi Yitzchak Kaduri, (Mizrahi Orthodox Haredi Rabbi and Kabbalist). His contributions to the Jewish people, joint with his extensive knowledge and studies in Torah, are just a few of his accomplishments. Known to have mastered the Talmud by heart and given ideal insight in Kabbalah and Jewish Studies, he was the last of Sephardi mystics.
Q: Where do you spend your time?
Fresia: As I was brought up in a very family oriented household, I have continued that tradition with my own. Most of my time spent, is time well spent with my family. They are my pride and joy, and I can say, that they are my teachers. In an effort of religious bipartisanship, I have done speeches in several churches reminding them of the danger of “Replacement Theology”, and that in essence, it is important that they stand by Israel, and continue to spread this word of unity.
Q: Any special talents, hobbies, or interesting trivia?
Fresia: I am an artist, with the hope to perfect my G-d given talent and to express the supernatural becoming natural in my canvas.
Q: What's something that most people don't know about you?
Fresia: I met my husband on 924 Lincoln Road. Back in the day, I went with a friend who was seeking to apply for a job in his business located in the area of the current South Florida Art Center. Granted, back then it was not as popular as it is today, but it goes to show you how life can lead you.
Q: Your favorite food or beverage?
Fresia: I love organic food! My favorite beverage would have to be, a smoothie filled with greens and the fruits of the Earth.
Q: And lastly, what would be a couple of ideas or wishes you have for the congregation/community?
Thank you, Fresia!