It's OK to ask for help

Dear PTBE Community members,

One important role of our temple community is our sacred responsibility to support one another when times get tough. We may need help when we or our family members become sick; when we lose a loved one; or when we just need some extra support during challenging times. PTBE may be able to help if we know that you are in need, but we cannot help you if we don't know about it!!! Please contact Maria in the front office at [email protected] if you need the support of the clergy or Caring Committee volunteers.

We are excited to be able to host a Grief Group starting this Spring with the Bay Area Jewish Healing Center:

This clergy-led 8-week grief support group is for individuals mourning the loss of a loved one. Whether you have experienced a recent loss, or are processing a loss that occurred in past years, you are invited to join a thoughtful, 2 month processing group housed at PTBE. The group, open to members and non-members, will meet Tuesdays, 1-3pm, starting February 26th. Please contact Rabbi Laura, [email protected] if you or someone you know is interested in reserving a spot.

In addition, the PTBE staff and Caring Committee volunteers may be able to:

· Bring you a meal when you or your family member is ill

· Help organize meals for Shiva

· Visit someone at home or make a phone call to someone who is lonely

· Connect you to our Tuesday Minyan to say Kaddish

· Connect you with our clergy for pastoral support

· Connect you with bereavement support

Again, please let Maria at [email protected] know if you, or someone you know, might need some support. If you would like to volunteer with the Caring Committee, or have ideas about helping the PTBE community, please contact Geri Crane at [email protected] .

We look forward to hearing from you,

Rabbi Dennis, Rabbi Lisa, Rabbi Laura, Cantor Elana and Geri Crane (Caring Committee chair)