Author Archives: Rachel Shababo

1. Aberdeen: Interfaith Tea

   July 19, 2015 9:30 am Comments Off on Aberdeen: Interfaith Tea

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   Event

   A  small community received a much-needed boost by hosting a tea celebrating their 70^th anniversary that was attended by members, local councillors and the Lord Provost. Members exhibited pride in their faith as they explained Jewish practices to civic leaders.

   Objectives:

   To help build bridges with the wider Aberdeen and NE Scotland community, in line with the outward-looking attitude of the Shul’s committee.

   Evaluation from Debby Taylor (wife of the President):

   “As the Lord Provost of Aberdeen was invited to the consecration ceremony in 1945, it felt appropriate that the title’s current incumbent – and councillors – be invited to join the community in its celebrations. It was a great chance to build relationships, as many locals have never engaged with Jews. That a few members, who hadn’t visited the shul in at least a decade, decided to come, was an unexpected delight. This was a special event that was a bit different, and allowed us to explain Judaism on our ‘home turf’ to an interested party.”

   Participant Feedback:

   • As my first time in a Jewish place of worship, I had a very positive experience (City councillor).
   • The tea gave me a better understanding of how the council supports local faith communities.
   • We demonstrated our practices and our purpose as a community in order to reinforce ties with the local council. Councillors and the Lord Provost enjoyed their visit enormously.
   • I can now appreciate and treasure the importance of the Hebrew Congregation as a practical presence for good.

   To discover how CRE can benefit your community contact Rachel Shababo

2. Cardiff: A dose of Shabbat Ruach

   February 20, 2015 12:43 pm Comments Off on Cardiff: A dose of Shabbat Ruach

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   Cardiff congregants packed out their shul hall for a full Shabbat experience, backed by the CRE funding that has allowed ruach-filled services and communal meals to become a regular fixture.  Two thought-provoking speakers – from charity ‘Race Equality First’ and from within the congregation – impressed attendees.

   Objectives

   To enhance the shabbos experience for members and have an enjoyable platform through which to educate and inspire; to give members who are alone a chance to have company; to increase attendance at Friday Night Minyanim

   Evaluation from Rabbi Rose

   “We were able to provide the community with a great Shabbos experience and atmosphere, especially for many who are normally alone or normally housebound. It also provided a brilliant opportunity for the young professionals and students less familiar with a shul service to immerse themselves in Shabbos and the community.  Attendance was far higher than expected, creating great communal spirit.  I strongly recommend similar events for other provincial communities.”

   Participant Feedback:

   • I observed a sense of togetherness and belonging in the community that was truly special
   • The ruach at previous Friday Night dinners left me wanting more! Small communities like ours really do have a wonderful feeling of unity.
   • A fabulous evening with great food and even better company.
   • Spending quality time with the wider Jewish community was a big draw for me; it’s a nice alternative to staying in.

   To discover how CRE can benefit your community contact Rachel Shababo