26 Reasons to Join Temple Beth Shalom

It’s the difference between visiting a Temple and being a member. Ask not what the Temple can do for you; ask what you can bring to the Temple, and see the rewards.

These days there are different levels of observance. Whatever your level, we know you’ll find TBS enriches your life in ways you might not have imagined. While we are a Reform congregation, many members are attracted to our Saturday morning Torah Study, our adherence to traditions, and our acceptance of all.

Tikkun Olam, repairing the world, is one of the tenets of Reform Judaism. What we may not be able to accomplish alone, we may be able to achieve as a member of a congregation. Temple Beth Shalom takes an active interest in issues of religious freedom, legislation that may affect our well being as Jews, and what goes on in the State of Israel and in the world. We also have a Social Action program to help replenish local food banks, donate to schools, and help our own congregants in need.

Rabbi Devora Buchen

Different Rabbis have different styles. Rabbi Buchen is a warm, outgoing, creative leader with humor, inspiration, and a  myriad of  talents. She is recognized and respected in our community. She leads in services, choir, adult and child education, and b’nai motzvot.

The TBS Choir is an important part of who we are. Under Rabbi’s direction, volunteers from the Temple membership make up a unit that is recognized and enjoyed by our own congregation as well as the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte counties.

We are a warm, welcoming congregation that you will soon come to think of as family.

Our membership is very diverse. We come from all over and from all walks of life. Among our retirees are many high achievement people who bring wisdom and vitality to Temple affairs.

You don’t just join this Temple. You are quickly made part of what is happening. Joining is just the first step. There are friendly people and an array of activities that will  draw you in to Temple life.

Our synagogue is warm and inviting, with a large social hall that hosts many varied activities such as dances, bingo, and karaoke.

Ask our membership committee.  You’ll be pleased.

We all hope our lives stays on an even keel for a long, long time. But life generally comes with surprising upsets and milestone highlights. At such times, you want a congregation you know, a Rabbi and congregation that knows you.

Card games, mah jongg, a free library, meetings; our Temple is like a community center.

Three teachers,(two are Israeli,) the religious education chairman, and our Rabbi all participate in our children’s education.

Yes, we usually ham it up!

A free meal is offered featuring homemade potato latkes prepared by our Brotherhood, followed by a student Hannukah presentation.

We host a SEDER on the first night of Passover; most of our members attend every year.

A very special time. Very special services.

Every Friday night, and after special services. Eat, drink, enjoy and meet new friends.

Most Saturday mornings the Rabbi sits down and explains the Torah portion, the Torah, and everything ‘Jewish’ you ask.

Sometimes we just all go out and enjoy a meal together.

Sometimes we go places together. Egypt and Israel, once. Movies and plays and concerts and lectures and shows.

It’s not big, but it’s full of books on Judaica, and a place to share member’s own copies of  New York Times best sellers.

Visit www.templebethshalomcc.org often for updates on new activities.

We publish a TBS bulletin quarterly. Hear what’s happened, what’s going to happen, and all the reports of Officers and the Board.

Be put on our e-mailing list and keep up with weekly events.