NEWS RELEASE
AM SHALOM CONGREGATION
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Am Shalom Congregation will offer no-fee Jewish Heritage education classes commencing in September 2022 for children aged four to 13. This initiative is a first ever for the region and will be offered to all Jewish children in the Barrie, Innisfil and Simcoe community for members of the synagogue
Rabbi Audrey Kaufman, spiritual leader of the congregation, explained: “Last fall, I suddenly woke in the middle of the night with a dream – actually an epiphany – that our beloved Am Shalom Congregation was offering free Jewish education. … The days of charging fees for our students had come to an end! When I awoke in the morning and recalled my dream, I thought... why not? We can make it happen!”
With the generous support of donors, the program has become a reality.
“Taught by professional Jewish educators, this educational program will provide students an opportunity to embrace their history as they move forward into their future as Canadian Jewish citizens,” explained the rabbi.
By participating in the program, students receive a well-rounded education, understanding, and appreciation of Reform Judaism that will help prepare them for and continue well after their bar/bat mitzvahs.
Furthermore, students will develop an understanding of Hebrew necessary for meaningful Jewish living, as well as an interest and desire to participate in local, national and world Jewish affairs, to take leadership positions in Jewish life, and to contribute toward the fulfillment of a just society and a united humankind.
To become a member of the Am Shalom Congregation, please contact Rabbi Audrey Kaufman at [email protected]
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