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CHAVURAH
What is Chavurah? At Temple Emanu-El, we pride ourselves on being a home for the members of our Temple family. While we are proud of the family atmosphere we have nurtured, as our membership has rapidly grown, we are also very aware of the need to create smaller communities within the larger Temple family. In keeping with the family spirit, we are happy to announce the formation of Chavurot at Temple Emanu-El. "Chavurah" is the Hebrew term for friend (Chavurot is the plural) and refers to relatively small groups within the congregation. These groups can consist of 10-12 couples or families or up to 20 individuals who get together on a regular basis. The lives of the participants in any given Chavurah often share a particular trait. For example, we might have a Chavurah of people whose children are teenagers, for people who have an interest in Jewish history, for empty nesters, interfaith families or recent Jews-by-Choice. The goal is for each Chavurah to become a cohesive unit, and share life together for many years within the context of the Temple. Chavurot come together on a regular basis and may engage in a variety of activities , such as coming to Temple events and worship services together, studying together, celebrating holidays, outdoor and sporting events or simply sharing a meal once in a while. These activities are tailored around the interests of participants. Groups meet in members' homes or at other chosen places such as a museum, restaurant or park. Chavurot are a way for Temple members to strengthen their bond to the Temple and to other members of the congregation with whom they have something in common. Why join a Chavurah? In our mobile society, we often live far away from extended family and longtime friends. Busy lives keep us from connecting with people in our neighborhood and community. Yet we yearn for the warmth and support of a close-knit community. For years, Temple Emanu-El members have found just think kind of caring family and community here at Temple. Belonging to a Chavurah will give congregants another way to connect with smaller groups of members who are at similar points in their lives, have common interests or backgrounds or enjoy the same activities. Events such as hanging a mezuzah on the door of a new home, naming of a child (or grandchild) or sharing a holiday celebration have new meaning when close-knit groups gather together. How can you get more information or join a Chavurah? Please fill our the Chavurah application, or call Barbara Zaslofsky, Member Services Coordinator, at (520) 327-4501. |
