SPICE Up Your Life This Fall

October 2024

By Madeline White

Temple Beth El’s (TBE) SPICE program, an initiative focused on creating enriching experiences for those 55 and older, has launched its Fall 2024 season with a series of events designed to foster learning, connection, and community involvement. Open to all individuals across the Metrolina region, SPICE lectures and social events are the perfect opportunity for newcomers to Charlotte or those recently retired to mingle with like-minded individuals. Each event features a catered lunch, with a thoughtfully crafted menu that complements the event’s theme.

The season kicked off in September with a welcome lunch for Cantor Danielle Rodnizki, who shared insights from her journey in Jewish music. On Oct. 16, SPICE participants will gather in TBE’s sukkah to celebrate Sukkot. These informal gatherings offer attendees a chance to reconnect with friends and make new connections after a summer hiatus, setting the tone for a busy year ahead.

The first major lecture of the fall will take place on Oct. 23, when SPICE hosts a session addressing the global state of antisemitism, led by Temple Beth El’s senior rabbi, Rabbi Asher Knight. The event will also feature Douglas Greene, Director of Jewish Community Relations, and Noah Goldman, Israel and Global Jewry Associate, from Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte. They will share valuable perspectives on how antisemitism is affecting communities both locally and globally.

On Nov. 6, Rabbi Lexi Erdheim will present “Beyond Koufax: Judaism and Sports,” highlighting how Jewish values have influenced the world of athletics. The event will include a special presentation of Jewish athlete trading cards by Les Gordon. On Dec. 4, SPICE will explore Jewish genealogy with Rabbi Beth Nichols, who will delve into the rebels in her own family tree. Rhoda Miller, Ed.D., CG®, an expert in Jewish genealogy and Holocaust studies, will guide participants to a deeper understanding of what “from generation to generation” truly means.

We’ll conclude our fall lectures with two opportunities for in-depth learning. On Nov. 13, Rabbi Stuart Gershon will lead an exploration of the book of Kohelet/Ecclesiastes. Then, on Dec. 11, the first meeting of our yearlong SAGE program will feature Rabbi Knight exploring the moments that have revolutionized Judaism and redefined our sacred traditions in “Shaping the Sacred: Disruptive Forces in Jewish History.”

SPICE also offers opportunities for community service and connection, such as a potluck dinner on Nov. 8 that will honor our veterans while raising funds to benefit Sterling Elementary, a Title I school in Charlotte. The fall season will close on Dec. 18 with a special Chanukah luncheon featuring blintzes, sufganiyot, slaw, cheesecake, and more as we celebrate the holiday with TBE clergy and SPICE.

While there is a cost to register for SPICE events, if you are a member of another temple, we are happy to offer you our member rate. Whether you’re new to the area, recently retired, or looking for ways to dive into the Jewish community in Charlotte, SPICE offers a welcoming community and a range of exciting programs.

For more information about these programs and to register, please visit www.templebethel.org/spice.