Small Groups

Kehilot | Tents | Spice & Spark Dinners

Last year Temple Rodef Shalom announced the launch of several “kehilot” – identity-based micro-communities within our larger congregation. Our kehilot are for those who identify as members of the communities of:

A space for individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community as well as allies who stand in solidarity and support. Together, we foster inclusivity and celebrate the richness of our diverse experiences. Upcoming events include Havdalah in the Park, a Break-Fast gathering after Yom Kippur, a fun (but competitive!) night of Drag Bingo, and a family-friendly Chanukah party!

A space for individualswho identify as Jews of Color, including Black, Indigenous, Latinx, and Asian Jews, individuals of mixed race, individuals identifying as Sephardic or Mizrahi,individuals who identify as Jewish and of cross-cultural background of any type,andindividuals who have studied or taken interest in the experience of any such groups or others that might fall under this umbrella. For Chanukah this year, we would like to explore the various ways families celebrate the holiday…including making yummy dosas!

A micro-community that welcomes all of those who have chosen Judaism as their spiritual path. Whether you recently chose Judaism or have been on this journey for years, please join us to deepen your understanding and connect with fellow members. Stop by and enjoy a nosh before a Shabbat service in November as we welcome, with open arms, those who have recently converted.

To be added to our distribution list about one or more of these kehilot, please click here to register. Questions? Contact Cookie Mandell, Director of Congregational Engagement.

We get it. Temple Rodef Shalom is a big place. But, we know how to bring it down to “fun size.” Do you like to take a hike while learning about local history? Do you love watching good films…and then critiquing them with friends? Are you into researching your family genealogy? Do you use the word “aperture” more than once a day? Then, join a Tent – our small groups initiative aimed at gathering together Temple members who enjoy the same interests, hobbies, sports

Every third Sunday of the month, be on the lookout for a congregational email with all the latest intel on our Tents. Don’t see something you like? Then, put a stake in the ground and claim your own Tent.

If you’re a TRS member and want to join a Tent or just want to hear more, please email Program Associate Sarah Rogoff for more information. She’ll be glad to help!

Do you have an idea for a new tent? Please click the button below to let us know!

Our Most Popular Tents

Grape Expectations
The TRS Tent for wine lovers! A featured varietal, region, or pairing is the focus for each gathering and its accompanying presentation.

Joyful Grandparenting (Virtual)
Join other grandparents and share tips on connecting with grandkids, talk about your lives, and nurture friendships.

Judaism & Theology (Virtual)
Curious about God in Judaism and your personal relationship – or not? Share ideas, readings, and your own stories!

Moms Off Duty
Moms plan get-togethers and outings (think paint night or dessert potluck), chat about Mom life, and meet new friends!

Movement Mavens: Yoga (Virtual)
No matter your level, an instructor will lead you through movement and breathing, while working on flexibility, strength, and overall well-being.

Movies: First You Watch, Then We Talk (Virtual)
Each month, members of the group watch a pre-selected film (on their own) – you’ll then meet over Zoom to discuss the film.

Music Jam
Join other TRS music lovers for an informal and fun jam sesh. No instrument or perfect singing voice needed to join!

Pedal Power
Temple cycling enthusiasts get together to ride, share information, plan routes, and more

Roll & Rull Board Gamers
Join other traditional gamers who like to roll die, read rules, and play board games. BYO nosh!

Today in Israel (Virtual)
This Tent focuses on the leading news stories in Israel; leaders will share articles and dive deep into modern Israel.

TRS Golfers
Join other members for a schedule tee-time, try a new course, meet new people, and enjoy the nice weather!

Women Who Mean Business
Join other female professionals and celebrate women-only networking. You’ll collaborate, share stories, laugh, and hear from insightful speakers!

Spice & Spark Dinners

It’s Friday afternoon. The weekend looms…full of clothes-folding, grocery shopping, kid schlepping, car washing, homework checking, house cleaning, yard tending…. You need some weekend! And we’ve got the answer! Join a Spice & Spark dinner for Shabbat or Havdalah. It’s your chance to get together with friends or soon-to-be-friends. Good food, good conversation, and an opportunity to relax, kick back, and laugh a little…or a lot! Help us create a guest profile for your Spice & Spark dinner.

Email Cookie Mandell, Director of Congregational Engagement, and let’s get something on the calendar!