Change, although often accompanied by mixed emotions, is an inherent reality of any community. The Board of Trustees of Temple B’nai Israel (TBI) announces transitions that carry great significance for its congregation, leadership, and enduring legacy. It is with a deep sense of gratitude, reflection, and anticipation that we share these important developments and invite you to journey with us into our next chapter.

Throughout TBI’s history, we have been shaped and sustained by individuals who have given generously of their time, wisdom, and passion. As we announce transitions in significant leadership roles, we do so while honoring those who have helped guide us thus far. Each chapter of our synagogue’s journey has been enriched by the dedication of leadership, volunteers, members and communities who have embodied our values and traditions. Today, we recognize the years of service that come to a close and the new beginnings that await.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Rabbi Jan Katz, Cantorial Soloist Melody Funk and her husband, Joel, Piano Accompanist. Their contributions have been many and varied, from guiding us through times of celebration and challenge, to fostering a sense of unity and purpose. Their voices and inspiration will continue to echo in our sanctuary and in the lives they have touched.

For the past three years, Rabbi Jan brought meaningful worship, life cycle guidance, Torah study, pastoral care, and interfaith outreach in congregational and community settings.  Perhaps most importantly, we will always treasure Rabbi Jan’s ability to interpret biblical passages to teach and engage us. An even in the most difficult times, insert her smart sense of humor “to share all the joys, and even the ‘oys’ of being Jewish in today’s reality.”

We wish Rabbi Jan and Melody and Joel Funk every blessing as they embark on new journeys, knowing that their time with us will be forever cherished and remembered.

With gratitude for the past, we now turn to the future.  On July 11, 2025, Rabbi Andy Bachman was welcomed as the spiritual leader of Temple B’nai Israel.  Rabbi Bachman’s diverse experiences and enlivening spirit promises to enrich our community.

At the heart of his rabbinic work is the teaching of Shimon HaTzadik in Pirke Avot: “The world stands on three things; Torah, Avodah and Gemilut Hasadim—Learning, Worship and Deeds of Loving Kindness.”

A fervent believer in the uniqueness and depth of experience in small town Jewish life, along with the preservation of history, memory and civic responsibility, Rabbi Bachman has also served as guest rabbi in several communities through the Institute of Southern Jewish life, as well as Sioux City, Iowa and Sioux Falls, South Dakota. In addition, he is at work on efforts to preserve Jewish legacies, buildings and cemeteries in smaller communities across the Midwest and has traveled to Belarus and Lithuania to support efforts at the memorialization of destroyed Jewish communities in those areas.

Rabbi Bachman offered greetings to the members of TBI, “as we start this journey together, let’s celebrate who we are and the sacred tradition we are called upon to fulfill.  And let’s go from strength to strength in doing what is just and right to build a world of peace and lovingkindness for TBI Laconia and our neighbors, for our nation, for Israel and for our world.”  Contact Rabbi Andy Bachman by email at rabbi@tbinh.org.