Social & Cultural Activities

Congregation Beth Shalom offers an ever-changing selection of social and cultural activities, a few of which this guide describes in detail. In addition, Beth Shalom works with many local Jewish groups to create and support a united Jewish community in Seattle's Northend. These groups include B'nai B'rith Hillel, Kadima Community School, Temple Beth Am, Jewish Family Services, and The Jewish Federation. Through coordinated planning, activities in the areas of cultural arts, adult education, family programming, and special events are shared so that members of individual organizations have the opportunity to participate in a rainbow of Jewish activities of interest.

Edwin L. Bierman Scholar in Residence

The Edwin L. Bierman Scholar in Residence is an annual event dedicated to the memory of Dr. Edwin L. Bierman (z"l), and made possible by funding from Marilyn Bierman. Through this endowed program, Beth Shalom brings noted Jewish scholars to Seattle for a weekend of Jewish learning. Past scholars have included Noam Zion, Aviva Zornberg, Richard Elliot Friedman, Rabbi Neil Gillman, Rabbi Naomi Levy, Prof. Sara Horowitz, Prof. Vaness as well as the Yeshiva Experience led by Rabbi Ethan Tucker of Mechon Hadar in New York. Dr. Bierman loved Jewish learning; the high caliber of our Scholar in Residence program ensures not only that his name will live on, but that future generations will also be able to foster their love of the Jewish faith through study and learning.

Family Camp - Camp Solomon Schechter Retreat Weekend

Beth Shalom holds an annual shul-wide retreat at Camp Solomon Schechter. This fantastic weekend is a chance to spend a restful Shabbat in a beautiful setting, make new friends, and learn about exciting themes. The weekend includes kid-friendly activities, programming for adults, and opportunities for families to learn and play together.

Young Adult Group

This group for young adults in their 20s and 30s, provides religious and social network opportunities for graduate students and young professionals. Many members of our group become active members of our community who attend Shabbat morning services. Additional programming opportunities are offered on a regular basis.

Empty Nesters

Empty Nesters started over three years ago at CBS as a way to socialize for those whose children have grown and left home or those who never had children. We meet most months, usually for a Sunday brunch, dairy pot luck, schmoozing, and to discuss a topic of choice. Topics have included discussing a guest speaker at the shul such as Rabbi Stone talking about Mussar, favorite books recently read, the Jewish film festival, memories of the high holidays, Medicare supplements, and we have also seen films of Jewish interest and read short plays aloud. Singles as well as couples are warmly invited.

Shabbas Chefs

The time we spend after services schmoozing with old friends and meeting new friends strengthens our community. The Shabbas Chefs are members of Beth Shalom who form cooking teams to prepare our kiddush lunch and create these opportunities. Those who volunteer do not pay for the meal, nor do they clean up after the meal, they cook it together. Chefs get support with recipes and menus, or they can choose to create their own menus. Preparing food together is a wonderful way to meet new people and feel more a part of the Beth Shalom community. To participate or for additional information contact our Shabbas Chefs team.

Seattle Jewish Chorale (Makhela)

Experienced vocalists sought for the Seattle Jewish Chorale, a community-wide performance choir housed at Beth Shalom, under the direction of Cantor Marina Belenky. The Chorale's goals include: educating and entertaining the public with the richness and diversity of Jewish song; building bridges to understanding and respect using the universal language of music; and having fun. All voice parts needed. Sight-reading ability and familiarity with Hebrew, Yiddish and/or Ladino are preferred, but not required. For more information, contact jewishchorale@live.com.

Other Activities

Members who wish to get involved and initiate programs are encouraged to contact the Rabbi or Executive Director. Activities at Beth Shalom have included softball, book clubs, and havurot, including one on the Eastside. Please watch the Ruach or contact the office for more information about these and other groups.