Simchat Torah
Simchat Torah
Simchat Torah means "Rejoicing in the Torah." On Simchat Torah, we celebrate the conclusion of our annual Torah reading cycle and the beginning of another. We read the last Torah portion, then the first chapter of Genesis, remembering that the Torah is a circle of life that never ends.
On Simchat Torah, we sing and dance with the Torah, forming processions in the synagogue. As many people as possible are given the honor of carrying a Torah scroll, and as many people as possible are given the honor of an aliyah (reciting a blessing over the Torah reading). Children are called up for an aliyah, too. Torah brings sweetness to the lives of all of us!
Ellen Regal took this photo at a recent Simchat Torah celebration.
Tue, April 30 2024
22 Nisan 5784
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Upcoming Events
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Thursday ,
MayMay 2 , 2024
Thursday, May 2nd 11:00a to 3:00p
This exhibit is about science and art. It is meant to be a learning experience, about the top 60 solutions to climate change, as researched by over 5,000 scientists. And most importantly it is about hope. It is about learning about these solutions to climate change and changing the hearts and minds of those around us, so that we can all work together. Anne Nesse, 2024 -
Thursday ,
MayMay 2 , 2024
Thursday, May 2nd 7:00p to 8:30p
We will break the event planning process into manageable steps. Led by Chari Smith. We will meet in Zoom room Gimel -
Thursday ,
MayMay 2 , 2024
Thursday, May 2nd 7:00p to 8:15p
Using Buber's The Tales of Rabbi Nachman, we will look at the life of Rabbi Nachman, his teachings, and his profound stories. The class will involve some meditation and journaling to help us reflect. Led by Harriet Cooke. -
Saturday ,
MayMay 4 , 2024
Shabbat, May 4th 10:00a to 12:00p
We will chant verses and spend time in silent prayer or meditation, then connect through Torah discussion and share blessings. Led by Rabbi Benjamin. -
Saturday ,
MayMay 4 , 2024
Shabbat, May 4th 3:00p to 5:15p
This program gives children a foundation for lifelong Jewish learning and engagement while integrating parents and children in a caring Jewish community. -
Sunday ,
MayMay 5 , 2024
Sunday, May 5th 10:00a to 12:00p
A schmear & schmooze brunch at Havurah Shalom from the Havurah Welcoming Committee for new members, newish members, and any Havurahniks who would appreciate being welcomed in again and learning about new ways to become more connected within the community. Questions? Contact Wendy Castineira. -
Monday ,
MayMay 6 , 2024
Monday, May 6th 1:00p to 4:00p
We are excited to bring mahjong back to Havurah. It is a fun, social activity that builds community, encouraging new friendships and cementing old ones. And while some of us may play elsewhere as well, we all agreed that restoring its place as an ongoing congregational activity will be a good fit for Havurah and those of us who play or want to learn the game. So please don't hesitate to join us! -
Monday ,
MayMay 6 , 2024
Monday, May 6th 7:00p to 8:30p
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Tuesday ,
MayMay 7 , 2024
Tuesday, May 7th 7:00p to 7:30p
[RSVP to be emailed a recording of the April 9 intro session.] The Omer is an ancient tradition marking time between the Exodus from the Narrow Place to the Expanse at Sinai. Explore tools and practices to facilitate your own learning and experience from Liberation to Revelation. We will have an intro class followed by half-hour check-ins, one for each Sephira. Led by Andrine de la Rocha. 7 pm, Tuesdays, Apr. 9 (Intro), 23 (Chesed), 30 (Gevurah); May 7 (Tiferet), 14 (Netzach), 21 (Hod), 28 (Yesod); Jun. 4 (Malchut) Led by Andrine de la Rocha. -
Wednesday ,
MayMay 8 , 2024
Wednesday, May 8th 6:00p to 8:00p