Congregation Beth Shalom
Weekly News and Updates, December 28, 2011
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Shabbat Services 8:00 p.m., Friday Evening, December 30 (5 Tevet)
Shabbat Candle Lighting Times for Fairfield
Shabbat (candle lighting) begins at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, December 30. Shabbat ends (Havdalah begins) Saturday, 5:35 p.m. in Fairfield.
Chanukah Party Recap
A lively crowd of 75 of our Fairfield Jewish family celebrated the second night of Chanukah at the synagogue.
Many thanks to all who contributed and especially Janet and Fred Swartz. She organized and lovingly prepared the latke and dessert feast. He orchestrated a delightful program of singing, story telling and stand up comedy. Jane Pitt on guitar led us in Chanukah carols and traditional melodies. It was a memorable evening of high spirits, lots of laughs and even a little Jewish knowledge.
Friendship Club; “Writing Your Memoirs” class announced
A highlight of the evening was Lottie Robins, mother of Lohrainne Janelle (formerly Larraine Yankaus) and the youngest 96 year old you’ll ever meet. Lottie and her husband Jack are recent arrivals to Fairfield and new members of the synagogue.
She announced two initiatives she’d like to lead for our Jewish community: First is a Friendship Club, in which 8 to10 members meet monthly in a home to socialize and discuss various aspects of Jewish life and culture. Secondly, Lottie will teach a class, “Writing Your Memoirs”. Drawing on years of experience leading other such groups, she emphasized the importance of recording stories of your childhood, your parents, and your grandparents for your children and grandchildren to cherish. A lively, fun time is guaranteed for all.
For more information on either of these initiatives, or just to chat with a very charming and interesting lady, please call Lottie at 469-5412. She and her husband can also be reached at robins6663@gmail.com. They’re eager to make new friends in town and would love to hear from you.
Coming Attractions:
More special occasions for the synagogue community are planned in the new year. A guest lecture series via Skype is in the works. We’ll be dipping into the Beth Shalom archives to screen footage of past celebrations and events. And steps are being taken to increase participation and enjoyment of weekly Shabbat services.