The Men’s Group is an informal association of the men of Temple Israel. We gather to pray, to discuss, and to perform acts of community service… but mostly we gather to spend time with each other.
Men’s Minyan
On Tuesday mornings at 9:00 am, we gather in the sanctuary for a brief, informal, lay lead, weekday service. Questions and comments from those in attendance are encouraged, as we enjoy each other’s company and welcome the day.
From 9:30 – 11:00 am, we gather for coffee and donuts or bagels, and a discussion of the topic of the week. Topics range from Judaism, to politics, to current events…and everything in between. They are very lively but respectful discussions, and all sides and opinions are welcomed. Any member may suggest a topic, and distribute articles and pre-reads to inform and stimulate our discussions.
Please join us every Tuesday morning for prayer, lively conversation, and refreshment.
Community Service
- Yom HaShoah: Holocaust Remembrance Day commemorates the lives and heroism of the Six Million Jews and Five million others of all faiths, who died between 1933 and 1945. To survivors, the Holocaust remains real and ever-present, but to others, it seems part of ancient history. It is our sacred responsibility to insure that the Holocaust will not be forgotten in this and future generations.
Yom HaShoah candles are a highly visible symbol for keeping the flame alive. Their color recalls the badges Jews were forced to wear in Nazi-occupied Europe, but their flame inspires hope that we can yet make our world a tolerant place to live. In the past, Temple Israel’s Men’s Group has sent out Yellow Candles to our congregational family. Please join us as we continue the tradition, helping to package the yellow candles. Your help would be appreciated.
- Let’s Build a Sukkah: In physical terms, a sukkah is a hut-like structure in which one sleeps, eats and communes during Sukkot. As for its religious symbolism, the sukkah’s purpose is to commemorate the time the Israelites spent in the wilderness after they were freed from slavery in Egypt. Please join us as the Temple Israel Men’s Club continues the tradition of building a sukkah in front of Temple Israel. Looks for details in September 2021. No tools or hardhats required.
- Race With A View: Race with a View is an annual event sponsored by Jewish Long Beach, benefiting Jewish Family and Children’s Service. The race is a 5K or 10K walk or run along the beautiful waterfront. Participants help JFCS maintain its array of services for the entire community, regardless of religion, ethnicity, national origin, or socioeconomic status. Temple Israel’s Men’s Group annually forms a team and participates in this wonderful event.