4 – Tree of Life
Original (middle) section installed in 1990, funded by Temple Sinai’s
Endowment Fund
Side sections added in 2008. Gifted by Caryn Bernstein in memory of
parents and Sinai members, Barbara and Wilbert Cohen, z”l
Artist and builder: Timothy Sutherland, Atlanta, Georgia
The large and striking Tree of Life installed on the left wall of the synagogue lobby is one of the first things members and guests encounter upon entering Temple Sinai. Since its addition in 1990, the Tree of Life has provided a meaningful way for Sinai members to commemorate the joy experienced during the simchas of loved ones. It embodies the biblical verse in Proverbs (3:18) which affirms that Torah and wisdom are a source of life, sustenance, and contentment to all who cling to it: “It is a tree of life to those who hold it fast, and all of its supporters are happy.”
Reflection from Lillie Janko:
In 1990, as a member of the Temple Sinai staff, it was a pleasure to work with then president of Sinai, Dr. Milton Deitch, when he was planning the design and installation of the Tree of Life with the young wood sculptor Timothy Sutherland, who had just finished his formal education at the art school at Georgia State.
Milton’s plan was that generations of Temple Sinai families would record their family simchas on the Tree. His plan was so successful that we soon needed more Tree space. I remember working with Timothy and his wife, Anne, who is also an artist, in laying out the plaques on the left and right panels to compliment the middle panel.
During my many years of working at Temple Sinai, I witnessed members enjoy watching the plaques of their friends go up on the wall. B’nei Mitzvah students excitedly showed off their plaques to their family and friends. When out of town guests visited our synagogue, they marveled over the beauty of our Tree of Life.
