The last few months have been challenging for all of us. Yet, in this time of quarantine and unrest in our country, we believe that our Temple community is stronger than ever. Unprecedented numbers of members are joining us online for Friday evening Shabbat services. Thanks to an incredible team of educators, our students continued to participate in education programs that moved to a digital format nearly the moment quarantine began. Our minyan and Torah study groups now gather on Zoom with as many as seventy members each week. Our community is connected and engaged in ways both familiar and new.
As summer begins, we have started to plan for the High Holy Days. This year, the month of Elul begins on Friday, August 21st. As the situation with Covid-19 continues to unfold, and based on consultations with medical experts, a survey of congregations across the country, and a review of a variety of in-person possibilities, the leadership and clergy of Temple Shalom have decided that our High Holy Day observances this year will take place in a mostly digital format.
We are so disappointed that we will not be together in person. Our High Holy Day observances are a cornerstone of who we are, and a treasured way to begin the New Year. We are saddened by our present reality, but we also believe we can turn this disappointment into an opportunity for our congregation to welcome 5781 in creative and innovative ways.
As we work to plan the scope and vision for the High Holy Days, we want to offer time for reflection and processing. We also want to support you in this moment and offer a space to share our collective loss. We hope you will join the clergy team as we discuss the challenges and possibilities inherent in our new way forward at two online meetings on Tuesday, June 23rd at 12 PM and Thursday, July 16th at 8 PM via Zoom. We look forward to seeing you and will send more details soon.
As summer begins, we feel the weight of this unprecedented time. There are so many unknowns. But we do know that Judaism has survived for thousands of years because of our ability to innovate and adapt. When we gather for the High Holy Days this year, we are confident our experience together will exemplify the best of our community and the teachings of our ancient, complex, and beautiful tradition. We appreciate your support as we embark on the tremendous effort of charting this new path ahead. We look forward to you joining with us.
With hope for the future, Rabbi Berry, Rabbi Abrasley, Cantor Shafritz, Fred Kraus, Temple President
JLL Milestones Program Wednesday, Dec 3rd 7:00p to 8:30p As your child prepares to take their first steps into formal Jewish learning, we invite you to join us for a special parent session to reflect, connect, and prepare for this meaningful milestone. Together, we’ll explore the significance of Consecration, what to expect from the ceremony, and how you can support your child’s Jewish journey at home and at Temple Shalom.
Reproductive Justice Initiative Virtual Meeting Wednesday, Dec 3rd 7:00p to 8:30p The Reproductive Justice Initiative is meeting on Wednesday, December 3rd via Zoom to plan our 2026 programs, Repro Shabbat on Friday 27th and our annual educational program on May 8th. Please bring your energy and creativity to address this important issue.
Contact Susan Goodman susan.d.goodman@gmail.com or Wendy Case, wbcase@aol.com for more information.
AJC Workshop - The Fractured Jewish Family Thursday, Dec 4th 7:00p to 9:30p Unfortunately, the Jewish community is polarized and fractured like we haven’t seen in many,
many years. Many families and friend groups are at odds with one another over Israel since
October 7 th . This workshop will help us find Common Ground and gain better understanding of
one another’s point-of view.
Join us for a special, curated program developed between our lay and professional staff at TS
and the local Boston Chapter of the AJC, American Jewish Committee, around this challenging
topic. This is an opportunity to learn and share together on the challenges of talking with family
members or friends who have a different point of view around Israel and the aftermath of
October 7th.
