Woodside Rabbi leads Congress in prayer

The U.S. House of Representatives recently had a special guest as local Queens Rabbi Stuart Berman served as its guest chaplain after an invitation from Congressmember Joseph Crowley.
“It was the greatest,” said Berman, who currently presides over the Woodside Jewish Center. “I was in the seat of power; it’s always good.”
Berman, a graduate of Yeshiva University, previously served at a temple in Manhattan and first met Crowley at the Woodside Jewish Center.
During his tenure, Berman has served as the chaplain for New York City Police and Sanitation Departments and has helped in the advancement of the national drug abuse treatment programs. In addition, he also serves on the faculty of the Rabbinical Academy of America.
“You have to give back to the community, you are part of it, said Berman. “You have to give to get back.”
Crowley also said that he was honored to have Rabbi Berman as the guest chaplain down in Washington D.C.
“I am extremely fortunate to have Rabbi Berman reside in my district,” said Crowley. “He is a role model for all of us and I am very grateful that he led us in prayer this morning.”
Berman also mentioned how it is very important for figures to remember their roots and the importance of their community. .
“It is important to balance global with the local,” said Berman. “That is what Congressman Crowley does which is why he is a good Congressman.”