TRAVEL CLUB

In the past year we had a very successful trip to Israel led by Rabbi Benjamin. 

It was most enjoyable and informative to everyone in the group. We plan to start off this year with a visit to the historic Truro Synagogue in Newport, Rhode Island/ This Synagogue is the oldest existing Jewish house of worship in the US. Other events are in the planning stages. Please contact the Temple office for more information at 617-698-3394 or email –office@templeshalomonline.org.

BOOK CLUB

The People of the Book are alive and well in Milton, Massachusetts. The Temple Shalom Book Club has been demonstrating our commitment to reading "Jewishly" for several years.

Our book choices have ranged from biography to spy thrillers, from stories set everywhere from Tel Aviv to Teheran, from historical novels to personal memoirs. What these books have in common is that they have something within them that we have identified as Jewish using the definition that we designed at the beginning of our adventure. We invite all to join our group. We read one book each month, and meet monthly. Differing views on the subject and a variety of backgrounds of the participants results in lively discussions. We learn from each other and from the books we read.  

For 2010 we have planned the following meeting dates:

February 16th
March 16th
April 20th
May 25th
June 15th

The book choices are made by the members so you will have input into what you will be reading. For any other information please call Francine Weistrop at
617-910-9492.

LIBRARY

The Tena and Benjamin Finkelstein Memorial Library offers a collection of more than 2,500 books with Jewish content, including wonderful choices for all age groups. The strength of the Library is very much due to Janet Quint, who functioned as the Temple’s librarian for many years. All Temple members are entitled to library borrowing privileges.Click here for borrowing procedures and more info.

YIDDISH CLUB

Gezunt! Freilach!
Gantzeh Megillah!

The Yiddish Club meets once a month for 1 ½ hours, usually on Wednesday afternoons, at people’s homes. The group is made up of Yiddish speakers as well as those who know very little Yiddish or just remember hearing it spoken growing up. As a result, many are familiar with Yiddish expressions. These expressions often prompt a discussion of other popular words and memories of past experiences. Stories are read and translated so that everyone can enjoy. Coffee, tea, cake and cookies are served. Anyone interested, Temple member or non-member, is invited. There is no fee to participate. Contact the office for more information.

SISTERHOOD

The primary philanthropic/tzedakah mission of the Sisterhood of Temple Shalom is to promote and support the welfare of Temple Shalom and its Religious School. Temple Shalom’s Sisterhood is a dynamic organization comprised of women in different life stages, with a range of backgrounds and diverse interests and concerns. Whether one is just beginning this journey or is a seasoned traveler, our Sisterhood will strive to provide opportunities for service and growth through Torah study, Holiday celebrations, Shabbat observance, Life Cycle events, worship and prayer. We expect friendships to blossom and faith to be strengthened. It will begin with our sisters, overflow to our families, friends and all we encounter in our community and beyond. For more about Sisterhood click here.

ADULT EDUCATION

The goal of Life-Long Learning is to touch not only your head, but also your heart; to share the wisdom that our culture and People have gained over the centuries. Learning gives each of us the opportunity to gain a better understanding of the way Judaism sees the world.

Throughout the course of this year there will be many opportunities for Life-Long Learning: Sunday morning breakfasts and speakers, our Winter Movie series, The Annual Ross Memorial Lecture, Shabbat morning Torah Study and Friday Night Talmud class to name a few. Some offerings are formal classes, others are more informal discussions (including our Book, Yiddish and Travel Clubs) but all involve thoughtful conversation, excellent teachers, great company and, since we are Jews, something to nosh!

This year, we are especially excited about two new classes, both taught by Rabbi Benjamin. See below for details and, as always, should you have an idea for a class or lecture, please let us know.

A Sophisticated Understanding of Jewish Practice and Tradition combined with Beginner/Refresher Hebrew

Sunday Mornings, 9:30 – 10:45

FREE for Temple Members. $36.00 for Non-members

More than “The Book of Why”, this class will delve into the deep values, ethical underpinnings and historical background of Jewish Practices and Traditions. Time will also be devoted to help improve everyone’s Hebrew reading skills whether you are a beginner or just in need of a tune up.

Hot Topics: What does Judaism say about…?

One Wednesday Evening/Month: 7:30 – 9:00 P.M. Starting on Oct. 7th.

FREE for Temple Members. $36.00 for Non-members.

Abortion, Euthanasia, Tattoos, Stem Cell Research, Immortality, Sexuality, War, The “Truth” of Other Faiths, Suffering, Capital Punishment and MORE! One topic will be covered at each of this year’s 9 classes. What those topics will be is up to YOU! At the first class, 20 topic choices will be presented and voted upon with the top 8 being scheduled in. Add the “Jewish view” to your cocktail conversation.