The most frequent question I hear from congregants is “Do young families come to Beth Emet anymore?” With the pandemic and only recent availability of vaccinations for our youngest children, sightings of little ones in the synagogue have been few and far between over the past 2 ½ years. I’m so happy to report that families with little kiddos are frequently reaching out to learn more about our community, our Young Family opportunities, our Beit Sefer program and so much more.
The parent(s) graciously meet me at a coffee shop or (better yet, at the playground with their kids!), where we chat about what they are looking for in a synagogue, where they learned about Beth Emet, and how they are faring with ‘pandemic babies’. Our community has so much to offer these parents and children, most importantly the connections and ‘belonging’ that come from building relationships with folks of all ages, and engaging meaningfully in Beth Emet’s many programs.
Next Saturday (July 16) the whole Beth Emet community is invited to celebrate Shabbat Bachutz (Outside) at Lovelace Park. Tot Shabbat (perfect for families with kids under age 6, and grandparents too!) begins at 9:00 am near the playground, and will be followed by a light brunch. At 9:30, our regular Shabbat morning worship begins, with a potluck lunch following. Details are below.
I hope you’ll come to Shabbat Bachutz. And if you feel comfortable, please greet someone that’s new to you, especially if they can tell you their age on one hand!
Shabbat Shalom,
Kathy Kaberon
Director of Young Family Engagement