Some Best Kept Secrets
Solel and Bet Sefer Solel are amazing places but sometimes the special programmes and events that we run are hidden gems. Recently, after a few conversations with congregants, I realized that it’s time to start “tooting our horn” and remind all and inform many about the scope of opportunities Solel offers.
For example, after 43 years, we are still maintaining a volunteer avocational teaching staff – parents and teens who are committed to educate the next generation of Jews. And you can become one of our staff by volunteering to apprentice in a classroom and, if needed, attend some “teaching technique sessions”.
We have to prepare for the next 43 years!
Adult Learning thrives at Solel. Our Rabbi teaches an informative and very enjoyable Torah Class each Sunday at Bet Sefer Solel from 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m., and this allows parents/grandparents who are dropping off kids at school the opportunity to learn as well. We also offer adult Hebrew classes and adult Bar/Bat Mitzvah training. All are welcome. Call Solel for more information.
Another adult learning opportunity is the J.I.C. – Jewish Information Course – class that offers adults from four Western communities a year-long Thursday evening course (7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.) that includes basic Hebrew, holidays, life cycles, history, philosophy and is the course that leads- if one is so inclined – to convert to Judaism. The class meets weekly, rotating among three synagogues. There is a cost if conversion is the end goal but there is also the opportunity to audit some of the courses as well, for a lesser fee. Call Arliene for more information.
Of course, Solel offers a myriad of service opportunities. But did you know that each Tuesday morning at 7:00 a.m., we have an intimate minyan of at least 15 people. We have a short morning service, we honour the memory of our lost loved ones with the recitation of the Kaddish and then, as a community (kehillah), we share a community breakfast, and then at 8:00 a.m., it’s off to work! Join us if you have time and especially if you are in Shloshim or the first year after a loss.
And just a reminder of some other special things we do. Our Mitzvah Committee is there to call and/or visit shut-ins, hospital patients, palliative care/hospice patients.
Just call the office if you know someone who is ill or alone. We will also add their name to our “Misheberach” prayer during services.
Solel is our extended Jewish home. If there is more we can do, let us know. If you want to get involved, let us know. If you want to talk, we are ready to listen!
Filed under: Educator's Message