Join us for a three-part series where we will gather together to discuss who we are as a community. We will specifically focus on what Reconstructionism and Jewish Renewal are, the structure and deeper meaning of our Shabbat Services, and Shaarei Shamayim’s history, core beliefs, current practices, and long-term plans. We’ll also solicit your opinions and generate new ideas for various CSS committees to address. This is a great way to meet others from the congregation and bring up any questions you may have. Sunday, May 5 – What is Reconstructionism? What is Jewish Renewal? This class, taught by Rabbi Laurie, will give an overview of Reconstructionism and Jewish Renewal and will explain similarities and differences in the various Jewish denominations. Sunday, May 12 – The Nuts and Bolts of Shabbat Services Rabbi Laurie will explain the basic structure of Shabbat services and also specifically focus on what Reconstructionist and Jewish Renewal services look like. This will cover the how’s and the why’s, the spiritual progression of the service, and how Shabbat services can be a meaningful part of our week. Sunday, May 19 – Who We Are and How We Came together This session will be led by CSS founding members, Jackie Kaplan, Jeff Spitzer-Resnick, and Mimi Goldberg. We will discuss why Shaarei Shamayim was founded and how the congregation has evolved over the past 20+ years, our core beliefs, how Shaarei Shamayim functions on an everyday basis, important policies, our long-term plans, and how to get more involved.