Sisterhood
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Sisterhood is a word that has meant many different things throughout the ages and throughout the history of the Conservative movement and in the evolution of Temple Israel itself. While Sisterhoods have disappeared from many Conservative synagogues, ours continues to be a robust and much venerated organization within our congregation. One reason for its strength is the versatility and commitment of Sisterhood members. We range in age from our 30s to our 80s and represent a wide range of professions and backgrounds. Open to members and non-members alike, Sisterhood has often been a gateway for women in the community to reconnect with or rediscover Jewish life, eventually leading their families to formalize their ties through membership in our congregation.
Sisterhood Application & Calendar
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Schedule of Events for 2020 / 2021
June 11 – Installation of new board
July 20 – General Membership Meeting & Pool party: at the home of a sister
Sept. 12 – Cooking for break-fast: in the temple’s kitchen
Sept. 23 – 7:30 PM Sisterhood in the Succah: place is TBD
Oct 21 – Judaica Night – 7:30 at TI. Show & tell. Share a brief story about your memorable Juadaica item
Dec. 1 – 7:30 PM Hanukkah party: at the home of a sister
Jan 15 – Sisterhood Shabbat: At TI
Feb 6 – Genealogy lecture: it can be in the building or online, and the time is TBA
Last year’s – Genealogy Event March 26 – Progressive dinner, Members Homes, details to follow
April 17, 2020 – Earth Day, TBD
May 1 – Paterson Falls walk: afternoon
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Affiliated with the movement’s Women’s League for Conservative Judaism, Temple Israel Sisterhood provides multiple opportunities for Jewish learning; ritual skill building; community connection; and personal friendship and support. Regular yearly programming has included:
- Book Group
- Themed holiday programming, like: Sisters in the Sukkah; Yom Kippur Kugglethon and Break Fast; Vashti’s Feast for Purim; Hanukkah Party; and Women’s-Led Seder
- Tzedakah projects and collections that benefit other local organizations like Center for Hope and Safety
- Belly-dancing class (for example)
- Mah Jong
- Wine Tastings
- Craft Nights
- Summer Pool Party
- Progressive Dinner
- Nutrition and Fitness Presentations by Certified Experts
- Sisterhood Shabbat
Please join us to experience this sense of sisterhood for yourself, and become a part of a group of interesting, welcoming, dynamic women.
New Temple Israel members are entitled to a year of free membership in Sisterhood. After the first year, members pay $36 a year and non-members, $54 a year dues.
Other Sisterhood Activities Throughout the Year:
Gift Shop – Hostess gifts, baby gifts, Judaica for all occasions, locally crafted and imported from Israel; tallitot, kippot — you name it! The Sisterhood Gift Shop is open on selected Sundays every month and by appointment. Volunteers needed! Contact Stephanie Gottesman to volunteer or to make a purchase: (201) 444-4778 or sjg1234567@aol.com.
Torah Fund – This an international fundraising campaign ensures our legacy to future generations of Conservative Jews by Women’s League. Each year, an artist designs a beautifully crafted Torah Fund pin to give to those who donate $180 or more. Torah Fund cards offer an appropriate way to mark all special occasions and cost $5 each; 100% of all donations benefit Women’s League Torah Fund. To donate or order cards, contact Susie Goldstein: (201) 444-4704 or susieg70@aol.com.
Kippot for your Simchas – Sisterhood continues the tradition of selling custom-made kippot. Before you place an online order for your next simcha, check with us–you’ll save money AND benefit the synagogue. Contact Carla Vogel: (201) 670-1642 or Carla@synagogue.org.
