Come worship, study, celebrate and schmooze

Charles Flum, President

We human beings are social animals. With few exceptions, we like to be with other people, preferably with people who have similar likes and dislikes. For example, Jews like to be with other Jews who think like they do. That is why we have synagogues. That is why Naples Jewish Congregation was formed. It is a place where Reform Jews can come to worship, study, celebrate, mourn and schmooze together. During the summer, our worship is limited to once a month. However, come the High Holidays, we get into the full swing of the Jewish year.

Speaking of the High Holidays, why not come and join us for worship? If you have never come to our High Holiday services, there is no cost to you. If you are not a congregant and have been to our High Holiday service, it is only $100, which can be applied to your membership. What a fabulous way to hear our great rabbi, Rabbi Herman, and our wonderful choir led by cantorial soloist Jane Galler and music director Alla Gorelick.

If you decide to join, we make it very easy. Your first year is “pay from the heart.” This way, your financial commitment is not great as we get to know each other.

One of the ways we get to know each other is through Flamingle — various activities held throughout the year. We’ve had picnics in parks, where we told funny stories from our lives, how we met our spouse, etc. Our last Flamingle in June was held at a Lebanese restaurant. I have never heard anything but positive comments about this activity.

Education is a cornerstone of Judaism. Rabbi Herman helps keep that foundation strong with his series of adult education classes on a wide variety of topics, from the prophets to current Jewish music. After his talk, we gather for a light supper (Jews love to eat!) and services, followed by the oneg.

A major event sponsored by Naples Jewish Congregation is our Artist in Residence program, usually held in February and open to the public. In 2024, we will have the Chicago-based quartet Listen Up!, who have previously performed as Artists in Residence. Details will be forthcoming.

Go to our website, NaplesJewishCongregation.org, for more information about our synagogue. Then, come worship with us. Hopefully, you will become a congregant in “the little congregation with the big heart.”