Announcements

October President's Column by Amy Gerstein: Where You Belong
Helping an individual feel like they belong is essential. But more than that, we must act to build a community of belonging. We must recognize that creating a sense of belong is our collective responsibility in this community — and that our community extends beyond the immediate “walls of our tent.” Perhaps that is why our founders designed a sanctuary modeled on Abraham’s tent at Marme, where he modeled the type of welcome and hospitality to which we can, do, and should always aspire.

Be Brave: A Thought Piece in Response to the May 2024 Yom HaZikaron Ceremony at the OFJCC
This was written by Beth Am congregant Mila Karon during the 2023-24 school year per a 5th grade assignment to write a memoir. Mila is currently a 6th grader at Woodside Priory School. When she is not reading or writing, she is in the pool with her water polo teammates or babysitting her two younger sisters.

 

Support Israel
We continue to grieve for the families who lost loved ones on October 7th and pray for the immediate return of all the remaining hostages being held in Gaza. As a community, we know that we are not whole; a rise in antisemitism locally and nationally, the threats of an expanded regional war, the constant anxiety and discomfort of going to school or work. Learn how you can become involved.

Caregivers Sh'ma Groups
Are you caring for an elder or spouse or loved one? If you feel overwhelmed, you are not alone. You can take part in a Sh’ma Group — not therapy, but a safe and friendly virtual space for sharing stories. This group format has proved successful here at Beth Am, helping us to start meaningful, supportive conversations. You will have guidelines for suggested topics and respectful interaction. You can easily form or join a group; the leadership duties are minimal and help from clergy is continually available. 

October Fund in Focus: Beit R’Fuah (House of Healing) Fund
Beit R’Fuah (House of Healing) is a vital program serving people who suffer from mental illness and their families. In the safety of a confidential, caring and nonjudgmental environment, families and their loved ones who are coping with mental illness can share their stories without fear of being judged or embarrassed. Our world just gets more and more complicated and stressful, resulting in greater urgency to serve as a resource for members who need support.

The Beth Am Annual Campaign Needs Each One of Us
The Annual Campaign keeps us going strong! Beth Am is committed to being the center of your Jewish life, a place to find meaning and fulfillment, and a safe and loving space for all who seek it. As we embark on our new synagogue year, we must renew our commitment to each other, and to the financial health of our congregation. 

Builders Circle Profile: Amy & Barry Asin
Amy and Barry are emphatic about the meaningful impact Beth Am has had on their lives since moving here all those years ago. “We built a community here and a life here, centered around Beth Am. Beth Am has brought us to a connection with the beauty that Judaism has to offer.” This connection inspired their decision to plan a legacy gift to Beth Am, naming Beth Am as a beneficiary of a retirement fund. Says Amy, “Our legacy gift to Beth Am is a way to give back to the Jewish community that has given so much to us. And, as leaders in the community, we need to be examples!”

Adult Education Opportunities: Start 5785 Off Right by Learning Something New!
We have an exciting schedule of learning opportunities this fall, including a continued partnership with New Lehrhaus: The Bay Area Hub for Adult Jewish Learning, Adult B'nei Mitzvah, Beginning Prayerbook Hebrew, and of course, our “oldies but goodies” classes. Whether you are a talmid chacham (Torah scholar) or new to Judaism, Jewish learning is for you! Please visit the Adult Education webpage for full class descriptions and registration information.