Rabbi Joseph P. Weinberg Memorial Garden Established at the Garden of Remembrance

“Always we are commanded to seize the day, to create a life which will be remembered as a blessing. Not how long, but how well did I live. Not how many honors did I obtain, but how honorable was my life. Not how many things did I acquire, but how much was I able to give.”
-Rabbi Joseph P. Weinberg, Yom Kippur Sermon

We recalled these words of rabbinic wisdom at the unveiling of the memorial stone for Rabbi Joseph P. Weinberg (z”l) at Washington Hebrew Congregation’s Garden of Remembrance Memorial Park (Gan Zikaron or GoR) in Clarksburg, Maryland. Rabbi Weinberg, famed for service and dedication to his family, friends, faith, and our congregation, reminded all of us to live a meaningful life.

Among Rabbi Weinberg’s many accomplishments was his role in the creation of Gan Zikaron. He recognized the need, seized the opportunity, and joined WHC’s lay leadership to create a sacred resting place for generations.

GoR’s founders envisioned a memorial chapel on the premises to serve the community, honor our loved ones, and comfort the bereaved in their time of need. After nearly twenty years, we are finally breaking ground on a beautiful building in the center of Gan Zikaron that will provide a chapel, family wing, and meeting space. 

In honor of Rabbi Weinberg’s vision and in memory of his good works, the west side of the chapel will be the site of the Rabbi Joseph P. Weinberg Memorial Garden, a beautiful space for reflection and contemplation of loved ones. We need a few more contributions to dedicate this garden in Rabbi Weinberg’s memory. Donors will be recognized on a plaque at the entrance to the memorial center. 

The Weinberg Family and WHC Past Presidents Susan Hanenbaum and Hank Levine are spearheading the effort. For additional information, please contact them or GoR Executive Director Glenn Easton (301-428-3000, geaston@gardenofremembrance.org). We would be honored to link your name to this worthy project. 

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