What is The Hearth?
A Powerful, Joyous Jewish Experience
Hearth Groups prove that Jewish experiences and spirituality can happen outside of the sanctuary and separate from traditional ritual observance. Whether groups are learning together, meditating together, playing games or cooking together, the setting encourages us to see the sacred in each other and provides creative ways to continue on their Jewish journeys. Hearth Groups embody the Jewish value of simchah – joy that is communal and therefore increases as it is shared.
Connection and Belonging
Hearth Groups bring people together to create lasting connections across generations in nontraditional and creative ways. They provide a dynamic “third place” where no one feels alone; where new and long-standing members alike are radically welcomed; and where everyone can play a part in creating a complex, interconnected web of Jewish life.
Join a small group to learn, create, and connect with fellow Beth Am members over shared interests.
Writing Poetry Hearth Group ~ March 30 – May 25
In Person
Have you ever wanted to write a poem but weren’t sure how to start? Or, do you write poetry regularly and want to discover new tools, or maybe share with others? Under the guidance of poet Debby Bacharach, we’ll read favorite poems, experiment with craft, and give each other supportive feedback. All levels of experience are encouraged.
Science Salon Hearth Group ~ April 23 – May 14
On Zoom
Join Diana Brement and four Beth Am members — Jerry Miller, Jonathan Bricker, Freida Taub, and Fred Appelbaum — who will explain their scientific research and work, and answer our questions.
Each week will feature a presentation and discussion from one scientist.
The Book as Art Hearth Group ~ June 15 – July 13
In Person
Join book artist Bonnie Thompson Norman in exploring a variety of interesting and unusual book structures. You will use assorted papers and materials to create books that surprise and delight using different techniques of sewing and gluing. All materials and tools supplied. No experience necessary.
More groups will launch over the next weeks, so there’s still time to join the fun and lead a new group! Do you have a special interest that you’d like to share and build community around? (Gardening, breadmaking, Sephardic genealogy, or storysharing, just to name a few possibilities.) Reach out to temple@templebetham.org if you want to lead a group and have a topic in mind. New Hearth Groups will roll out throughout the spring.
See our FAQ page for more information or if you have any questions about the Hearth Groups, email at kendra@templebetham.org.
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