Welcome members, old and new

Deborah Fidel, Temple Shalom Executive Director

If you’ve been in Southwest Florida lately, you know the real estate market is hot, with many new people making Southwest Florida their home. With this influx, our congregation is growing by leaps and bounds. We are blessed to have many new members, including young families, and look forward to welcoming them to our programs.

When visitors to Temple Shalom walk in the door, they immediately feel the youthful energy and vitality. There were so many smiling faces here over the summer. The enrollment for our summer children’s program, Camp Shalom, was almost double what we expected! From animal encounters and science experiments to cooking classes and “visiting” Israel and other countries around the world, the seven weeks of Camp Shalom were filled with excitement.

As we transition into the upcoming preschool year, we are adding new classrooms to meet growing demand. Preschool visitors are impressed by the new gymnastics/tumbling area, called Kef Shalom (Hebrew for Fun at Shalom!), presentations by scientists from Super Science & Amazing Art of Naples, a new and improved Storyland library and the children’s “shopping trips” to the Markolit (Hebrew for minimarket), where they learn while using their imaginations and play.

YESh, (Youth Engagement at Shalom) is gearing up for a great year. Exciting Judaic and Hebrew programs are planned, as well as family programs, community service field trips and some engaging, new electives for students. For registration and more information, visit the YESh page under the learning tab at www.Naples Temple.org.

We are also welcoming new members without children at home. People join Temple for many reasons, including a desire to meet other Jewish people in Naples, study with our clergy and worship in our newly renovated Sanctuary. There is something for everyone at Temple Shalom — Sisterhood, Men’s Club, the social action committee (Tikkun Olam Council), havurahs (small groups), adult learning, Shabbat and holiday services, and so much more!

As we return to in-person activities, there will be more opportunities for longtime members and newcomers to get involved.

If you are thinking about joining a synagogue, we invite you to check us out. We believe in being welcoming and inclusive — no one should face barriers to being part of our congregation. Instead of paying an assigned fixed dues amount, you pledge the amount you wish to contribute as your annual fi nancial commitment each July.

Please call with any questions or come visit Temple Shalom. We will be happy to show you around and help you see why we truly are “One Family.”