What makes Congregation Beth Am unique?
While most families are staying home on a brisk and rainy Sunday morning, groups of students make their way to the First Day of Beth Am Religious School. Rabbi Prass, Rabbi Educator at Beth Am, dressed as a snickers bar holding a Torah and Shofar greets them warmly and wishes them a great new school year. Eager smiles and pleasant greetings are exchanged between the young students and their families. Old friends reunite with warm hugs and slight squealing of excitement. While many children would be anxiety- ridden on their first day of Sunday school, there is not a frown or tear in sight. Students feel a sense of familiarity among their peers. Many students are a part of multi-generations of family members who have attended Congregation Beth Am since its establishment in 1979. New students are encouraged and supported by their seasoned peers.
According to veteran teacher Mrs. Melissa Haufman,who has taught Religious and Hebrew School at Beth Am for over twenty years, describes Beth Am as "down to earth and a great community."
Many other congregants and family members echoed the same narrative. When asked, they described Beth am as, "supportive, inclusive and family."
That is what makes Beth Am special. No matter who you are, your background, race, gender, age or denomination, Beth Am strives to make you feel at ease and comfortable when a part of their community. Whether young or old there are countless programs that CBA provides to their congregants. There are multigenerational programs that bring joy to both child and grandparent alike! An example of this is their Tot Shabat programs. Parents and grandparents bring their young grandchildren to enjoy live shabbat songs performed on the guitar. Usually there are bubbles, dancing, music and and a special treat to conclude the cheerful Shabbat evening. No matter your age, you will have a smile on your face.
Following Tot Shabat there are services of prayer to honor shabbat (Jewish day of rest). People of all ages gather in the special place of worship to give praise and celebrate the end of another week. Rabbi Bellows leads the worship giving meaningful sermons throughout the service. Candles are lit, grape juice is drank and spirits are lifted through song and prayer. It is an uplifting experience enjoyed by many who attend both in-person or through zoom. Congregants leave with full hearts and enjoy a slice of cake at the celebration after services with friends and family. It is a special evening that is shared and cherished by all who attend. Congregation Beth Am offers unique experiences of deep connection through events, services and community.
Beth Am welcomes all prospective members, if interested please visit: www.bethambg.org or call 847-383-5017.