In Parashat Bo, Moses stands before the Israelites, his heart heavy with a singular, burning desire: to lead his people to freedom as one united community. The plagues have ravaged Egypt, but Moses knows that true liberation is more than just escaping slavery it’s about emerging as a cohesive, bound-together people. As the final, horrific plague strikes, Moses' vision is clear: the Israelites must journey to freedom not as scattered individuals, but as one heart, one soul. The command to celebrate Passover is an invitation to create a shared memory of redemption. Only together, united in faith and purpose, can they taste true freedom.
In our own time, and during this Shabbat, let this message call us to work toward collective liberation, to stand together in unity for justice, compassion, and the common good. True freedom is not just about personal gain but about uplifting one another as a community.
Join us tomorrow for:
Announcements
Saturday, Feb. 1
10am - 11:30am - ”Mini Minyan” Shabbat Service
Sunday, Feb. 2
8:45am - Brotherhood Schmooze
9:30am - 12pm - Religious School
10am - 11:30am - FAST - A Sacred Conversation about Justice
Wednesday, Feb. 5
5pm - Hebrew School
Thursday, Feb. 6
7pm - Choir Rehearsal
Friday, Feb. 7
5:30pm - Early Oneg
6pm - Erev Shabbat Service with 3rd & 4th Grade Religious School Students
Upcoming Events
Located in St. Petersburg on Foridas beautifu west coast, Temple Beth-El is a Reform Jewish congregation that has served this area since 1928 and is focused on strengthening relationships and making connections We are a welcoming Reform community for Jewish and interfaith households to experience an uplifting and joyful sense of belonging as we seek to connect our members with each other and the greater community and world around us Enjoy and have a ShabbatShalom!
God sends the plagues of locusts and darkness upon Egypt and forewarns Moses about the final plague, the death of every Egyptian firstborn. Pharaoh still does not let the Israelites leave Egypt. (10:1-11:10) God commands Moses and Aaron regarding the Passover festival. (12:1-27)
God enacts the final plague, striking down all the firstborn in the land of Egypt except those of the House of Israel. Pharaoh now allows the Israelites to leave. (12:29-42)
Speaking to Moses and Aaron, God repeats the commandments about Passover. (12:43-13:16)
Relax! God put the wiggle in children Don’t feel you have to suppress it in our sanctuary or chapel.
Sit towards the front where it is easier for your little ones to see and hear what is happening on the Bima. They tire of seeing the backs of other’s heads.
Quietly explain our rituals and sing or clap when appropriate Children learn liturgical behavior by copying you.
If you need to leave services with your child, do so, but please come back
Remember that the way we welcome children in synagogue directly affects the way they respond to coming to synagogue, to God, to one another Let them know that they are welcome in this house of worship, here, at Temple Beth-El.
