Each year, as a congregation, we explore a particular theme as part of our ritual and adult education programming. This year, our theme is Embracing Prayer and Spirituality.
Why pray? Praying is part of being human and a deep part of Jewish life. This year we will explore all dimensions of personal and Jewish prayer and we urge you to share this deepening journey with us. Prayer allows us to tap our inner life, our intuitive self with its yearning hopes, desires and passions. Prayer can elevate our spirits, connect us to community and allow us to experience the Divine in our own lives. Jewish prayer evolved over many centuries and has several traditions—from the structured prayers of our liturgy including daily and holyday services to sacred chants. Prayer can also inspire us with deeper personal meditations, songs of praise and individual silent prayer. Prayer challenges us to think about theology and deeper and infinite connections. How does God or our sense of the Divine become part of our prayer? Is our prayer symbolic or does it have theurgic powers? How does prayer in a sanctuary or sacred space impact our prayer?
Our hopes for you: Make a monthly Shabbat commitment and come to all of our prayer Shabbat Labs! Join our new Jewish Spirituality and Prayer Journey Group that includes all of our Shabbat Prayer labs, a special breakfast prayer journey program, Shabbat Havdalah together and One Day Shabbat with A Special Guest! Check out the Prayer and Spirituality Shelf of recommended reading in the new Library!
As a religious community, we have much to explore! Together, we’ll explore these themes through a variety of programs, some already on the calendar and the others in creative process. We hope to raise awareness during the coming year at Temple Emanuel. We look forward to a wonderful year together at Temple Emanuel—come join us!
To find our more about our upcoming adult education programs, please visit the pages of our 2011-2012 Guide to Temple Emanuel or read our monthly newsletter, KOL KORE. Our office staff will also assist you with any questions.
Rabbi Warren Stone, Cantor Rosalie Boxt, Itzik Eshel, Director of Education, Susan Neiman, Executive Director, Madeline Gold, Director, Early Childhood Center
