Benny Stalson, Temple Israel's spiritual leader for many years, reached a milestone birthday on Sunday 22 April 2007 when he turned 90. A special service was held at the synagogue in Hillbrow on Saturday 21 April to pay tribute to Benny for the many years he has dedicated to the Progressive movement.
But no matter his age, Benny refuses to retire and he still leads services on Saturday mornings.
Said one member of the Progressive community at the Brocha after the service: "I'm sure I've contributed at least five times to Benny's retirement fund!"
Rabbi Charles Wallach, who grew up in the movement and spent many years learning with Benny and other spiritual leaders, lead the Shabbat morning service and in his sermon paid tribute to Benny and May Stalson for their years of dedication to the community.
Those who paid tribute included SAUPJ chairperson Steve Lurie, and Temple Israel chairperson Reeva Forman
During the service, Benny's family, wife May and daughters Robyn and Lynn, were honoured when called to the Torah together and asked to read the Haftorah. Thereafter, Benny and May were blessed by Rabbi Wallach.
Benny thanked his wife, May, for supporting him and Temple Israel for more than 50 years, and thanked Reeva and her committee for their encouragement. (Benny and May celebrated their Golden wedding anniversary last year.)
It was a moving, emotional service, which was attended by many who grew up at Temple Israel, are leaders in the community or who are current members of the shul.
A brocha was held after the service at which Steve Lurie, SAUPJ chairperson, Reeva Forman, chairperson of Temple Israel, and many others who had known Benny for years, spoke in his honour.
