As Sisterhood is the heart of Temple Beth El, Women's Spirituality Group (WSG) is its soul. The women involved, of all ages and in all stages of life, are devoted to finding a spiritual center through lively discussions, informative lectures and unique activities. They also find special ways to celebrate the Jewish holidays and to perform many mitzvot. All women are welcome. There is no fee. Jewish holidays are special and each year the WSG leads a Women's Model Seder at Passover. During Chanukah we collect toiletries for women in need and distribute them to Homeless Shelters, Women in Distress, and Nursing Homes. Last year over 100 bags were made and given out. We also have held Tu B'Shevat Seders and discussed women's roles in the Purim story. Cooking and eating are all-time favorite activities. Delicious latkes are made during Chanukah and we bake hamentaschen during Purim and take them to Douglas Gardens for those who are so glad to be remembered during Purim. Our end of the year pot luck dinner isn't to be missed! Other mitzvot include donating a beautiful piece of art to the Temple, dedicating books to the Temple library, and giving a scholarship to the Religious School. So, if you would like to learn more about women's roles in Judaism or just spend a pleasant evening with a group of bright, fun women, join us at our next meeting. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ As you are reading this, we have fond memories of our first 2011/5772 meeting with Paula at the helm. If you missed it, I am sorry. Paula proved to be a wonderful leader, with a masterful meditation. We all got to know each other a little better and she also had a fun activity planned for us; we made bubble bath with inexpensive ingredients. There was time for refreshments and schmoozing. On Monday, November 14th, we will have “A Taste of Joy.” Join us for a cooking demonstration by Temple Beth El’s caterer, Bon Appetit. Monday, December 12th, will be “Giving back to the Community.” We will be packing toiletries and other useful items for Women in Distress and other community organizations. Please start collecting new items only. We need toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, soap, combs, lipsticks, paper, pens, and other useful items. Samples from hotels and cruises are fine. Again, these must be all new and not partially used. The dollar stores are good sources. We will also need greeting cards and stamps, as well as quart size storage baggies. And there will be time for celebrating Chanukah, as well, that night. These meetings will be at the Temple at 7:00 pm. Please note that the January meeting will be on Thursday, January 12th, at a different location outside the Temple. Please check the January Bulletin and the Temple’s weekly emails for further information. Please take a little time each month for yourself; be among like-minded women of various ages. You will return to your family refreshed and better able to handle the stress of the week. We look forwarding to seeing you there. Eva Abramczyk
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