learning & Social Activities
We are proud to provide a range of social and educational programs for adults and kids that build lasting friendships and deepen connections to Jewish life. Contact us to get involved!
jewish learning
Religious School
Our Religious School offers a dynamic and engaging curriculum designed for children to connect with their Jewish traditions and values.
When: Sundays, 9:30am-12pm
Adult Education
Torah Study and Hebrew Class with Ohad Shem-Tov
We are thrilled to introduce an exciting new learning opportunity at Temple Beth El!
Beginning Sunday, December 22, 2024, at 10:00 AM, we invite you to join a combined Torah Study and Hebrew Class, led by our own Jerusalem-born member, Ohad Shem-Tov. This unique program will blend the exploration of Torah teachings, using the acclaimed Robert Alter translation, with Hebrew language learning, offering a rich and engaging experience for all participants.
Whether you're looking to gain deeper insights into the Torah or improve your Hebrew skills, this class is designed to be enriching for learners of all backgrounds. Come and be part of this meaningful journey of study, language, and connection. All are welcome!
Come be part of this meaningful journey of study and connection. All are welcome! We look forward to learning together!
When & Where: The class will be held in the library on the same dates as the Hebrew School,
from 10 am to 11:30 am. Come and learn Torah and modern Hebrew from a native Israeli and enrich
your connection to the language and culture.
The TBE Discussion Group—All Are Welcome!
The TBE Discussion Group led by Jim Bercovitz and Alice Lichtenstein
DATE: SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2024 (Yes, folks, that’s SUNDAY, not Saturday)
TIME: 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
PLACE: TBE Library.
Please read the first THREE chapters of our text: Ari Shavit’s, “My Promised Land” (The Triumph and Tragedy of Israel) Random House, 2013—NOW IN PAPERBACK. Also, available as an audiobook on Audible!
Jot down any questions or observations you’d like to share. (For those who are attending for the first time—the book is very readable. You can catch up easily!)
Please know that interested friends are welcome.
Social clubs
Temple Sisterhood
Watch for updates.
Men's Club
Men’s Club Breakfast is the third Sunday of the month. Join us for a lively discussion and breakfast.
Social Action Committee
Multiple community organizations have been meeting for several months regarding the problem of homelessness, made worse in cold weather, with the goal of creating overnight shelter. The Department of Social Services and opportunities for Otsego can place people in shelters or motels, but some people do not or cannot use these options.
Recently, a subcommittee of faith communities met, and I represented Temple Beth El. Lynn Gluekert, Executive Director of Catholic Charities, chaired the meeting, noting that Catholic Charities saw 47 people in January and 23 people in February who needed overnight shelter, including 2 people who were sharing 1 sleeping bag outside. Reverend Marti Swords-Herrald from First United Methodist Church discussed a successful overnight shelter in Troy, where she previously served, and suggested that the coordinator from the Troy shelter could instruct this group.
The Salvation Army on River Street in Oneonta has a room available, with cots, from 8 PM to 7 or 8 AM, which is used for other purposes during the day. There would need to be a staff coordinator, volunteers would have to be trained, and rules would be determined, including no drugs or alcohol. Congregations would be asked to supply volunteers, food and other donations. While the need is immediate, the group recognized that this could take at least several months to implement.
Chesed Committee
“Chesed,” meaning Deeds of Loving Kindness, will be providing help and support to Temple members in times of need and in times of joy. Anne Green and Bernadette Winters Bell will be here to offer spiritual support, a meaningful card, or a supportive phone call to those confronted by illness, crisis, or the loss of a loved one. We hope to bring sunshine to those who are infirmed in the hospital or at home (Bikur Cholim) , offering condolences and sympathy to houses of mourning, and great cheer to all of the homes who are enjoying simchot with new births.
Going forward, our goal is to link members to help and support each other when a need becomes apparent, doing deeds of lovingkindness within our own community, and fostering a spirit of mutual concern.
Please call/email if you are aware of a need to be addressed. Also, please consider making a call, sending a card or supporting someone in need with your supportive presence. All assistance is gratefully accepted.
