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What is a Havurah and How Can I Get One? By Susan Stock Do you remember when you were growing up and you knew everyone who lived on your block? All the children attended the same school, most of the mothers stayed at home and most of the fathers left for work at 8 and were home by 6. Anytime a baby was born, or someone was ill, there was an instant community to share the joy or offer support. As an adult in 2005, I find that I never even see many of my neighbors and the kids on our street attend at least five different schools. My husband knows more about the people in his online tree group than he does about the family that has lived across the street for more than a year. It’s not surprising that sometimes I can feel isolated in the midst of our very crowded neighborhood. If any this sounds familiar, you may be in need of a Havurah. In Hebrew, the word “Havurah” means fellowship. A Havurah is a group that comes together to fill a void, whether it be to socialize, study or share a common interest, one of the by products is always the building of a mini community. If you look at Temple Beth El as a neighborhood, each Havurah might be considered a street. We have begun by forming a Young Family Havurah for parents with preschool and elementary age children. Our first event was a sunset beach picnic where we shared the end of Shabbat. In April we will have a potluck with organized activities for the kids and a wine tasting for the parents. I have list of temple members interested in joining
other Havurot. From film appreciation to political discussion, Jewish study,
sports and gardening, the possibilities for our little communities are endless.
All that is needed is individuals who would like to connect with other people
who share a common interest or passion. Once a group is formed, the members
determine their own schedule and program. If you would like to form a Temple
Beth El Havurah, or want more information about the Young Family Havurah, please
contact Susan Stock at 954-922-7527. |
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