Announcements

January/February President's Column by Debby Radin: Where Are You From?
“Where are you from?” the Arab salesman asked me as he persisted in trying to sell me a scarf while in Bethlehem, which was one stop on Beth Am’s recent six-day whirlwind journey through Israel. We had just exited the Walled Off Hotel, where we had spent the morning after passing through the checkpoint between the Israel I was familiar with and the West Bank.

Looking for A Few Friendly Volunteer Greeters
Be the friendly first impression and helpful presence at our community events. We need volunteers to help with greeting and creating a positive experience so that every person who walks through our doors feels at home. We are looking for warm, enthusiastic, friendly people to help us. Sound like you? Sound like someone you know? Encourage them to sign up, too. A fun training will be provided. If you or someone you know might be interested, please contact greeterleads@betham.org.

Shabbat Dinners to Support Ukraine
Welcome Shabbat with a special evening of blessing the candles, challah and wine, and getting to know one another! Meet new friends, enjoy the hospitality of special hosts, relax and enjoy a delicious dinner prepared especially for you by some of the best home chefs in the Beth Am community. These are perfect small-group settings for making and renewing connections, while supporting our sister congregations in Poltava and Odessa as they fight for democracy.

 

Start Off the New Year With a Bang!
This year we are launching a wide scale initiative to offer local social gatherings in all the areas where Beth Am members live — hosted and organized by your fellow members! These informal potluck events are in homes, parks, or restaurants and are arranged by zip code or city. Beth Am Neighborhood Gatherings (BANG) are designed to connect neighbors, re-connect old friends, and are open to all members. 

Beth Am Facilities Update & What Comes Next
We’re sharing an important update about the work underway on our beautiful campus — and to share what’s ahead as we continue caring for and improving our shared home. Save the date: In January, as part of our ongoing facilities update efforts, we will hold two congregational meetings — both in person and on Zoom — to present several initial options for campus enhancements and to hear your ideas and aspirations.

 

Caregivers Sh'ma Groups
Are you caring for a spouse? If you feel overwhelmed, you are not alone. You can take part in a Sh’ma group — not therapy, but a safe and friendly space to share stories. This group format has proved successful here at Beth Am in helping us start meaningful, supportive conversations. You will have guidelines for suggested topics and respectful interactions. You can easily form or join a group; the leadership duties are minimal and help from clergy is continually available. Groups are now forming. Join in! For more information, please contact Rabbi Watenmaker at rabbi_watenmaker@betham.org.

January 2026 Fund in Focus: The Aptekar Family Endowment Fund for Film
The Aptekar Fund sponsors one of the most popular programs at Beth Am, our Shabbat Film Series. Ranging from documentaries about Jewish history, to political commentary, to love stories, to singing cowboys — the fund makes it all possible!

Adult Education Opportunities: Learn Something New!
We have an exciting schedule of learning opportunities, including a Klezmer class, Modern Jewish Literature Class, book discussion with guest author Ilana Kurshan, (re)Intro to Judaism, and Discussion Group for Parents and Grandparents of Trans- and Non-Binary Kids. 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.