All are invited to enjoy Shabbat and holiday services
offered in our sanctuary and led by Rabbi Mike. Each
service has its own style and is tailored to meet the needs of our diverse
community. Interfaith couples, non-traditional families, singles, and seniors
are welcome. A special treat is our wonderful Tot Shabbat which generally takes
place the 4th Friday of each month. This is a service, preceded by a pot
luck dinner, which is filled with singing, dancing, running, skipping, hopping
(don't believe us? Try coming!), and stories. For a complete schedule of programs and
services, please see the Calendar and The Megillah,
our monthly newsletter.
Rabbinical services are available for all life-cycle events, including a bris, baby naming, bar and bat mitzvah, wedding or funeral, etc. Such services are free of charge for temple members. Non-members may also engage the services of Rabbi Mike at their own expense.
Our approximately 6000-square-foot Community Center boasts a spacious sanctuary, full-service kitchen, classrooms and a library. The community center is also available for non-temple events. Call the temple office for details.
Temple Ner Ami is truly a community center -- a meeting place where Jews can enjoy religious and social activities. Several “friend-raising” events are held throughout the year to bolster the sense of community within the congregation. These fun, family events integrate new members into our temple family, as well as strengthen existing friendships. All upcoming social strengthen existing friendships. All upcoming social and religious events are advertised in The Megillah.
Our qualified, professional instructors operate an outstanding Torah school for students in Pre-K through High School grades.
While focusing on Hebrew language, Jewish culture, history and philosophy, our program also incorporates arts and crafts, cooking, music and dance into the curriculum..
The mission of our Torah School is to provide our students with a comprehensive and positive Jewish experience that will enhance their Jewish identity. Classes meet as follows:
| Pre-K through 3: | Wednesdays 4:15-6:15 PM |
| Grades 4 & 7: | Mondays 4:15 -6:15 PM |
| Grades 5 & 6: | Mondays 4:15-6:15 PM Wednesdays 4:15-6:15 PM |
| 8th- Confirmation | Wednesdays 6:30-8:30 PM |
The ceremony of Bar or Bat Mitzvah recognizes the accomplishments of our young people in a public manner. To this end, Rabbi Mike individually and personally prepares each student according to his/her ability for this important milestone. The Rabbi meets individually with each Bar/Bat Mitzvah student for a half hour per week in the year preceding the ceremony.
Here at Temple Ner Ami students in grades 8 and higher are encouraged to continue their Jewish studies beyond their Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Students meet weekly with Rabbi Mike regularly, for timely and appropriate discussions on Jewish Identity. In the Spring, the class will begin to prepare for the Confirmation Service which will take place during the holiday of Shavu’ot.
Our Sisterhood boasts an active membership of more than 60 women of all ages. Events throughout the year include Congregational shabbat dinners, Gift shop, Programs of interest to women, Arts & Crafts Boutique, Children’s days in the park, Members luncheon and other supportive fundraising activities and programs. A great way to make new friends and get involved. Click here for more information.
Our youth groups, organized by paid professionals, are open to all Jewish teenagers in grades 6-12. The Junior Youth Group (6th-8th grades) and Senior Youth Group (9th-12th grades) meet monthly for social activities, field trips, and community service projects. Activities include camping, dances, barbecues, guest speakers, philanthropic projects, pizza and swim parties, services, and peer group discussions. Our Senior Youth Group is affiliated with NFTY (National Federation of Temple Youth.)
Lifelong study is the hallmark of Judaism making adult education a priority here at Temple Ner Ami. Classes are taught on a wide variety of subjects by Rabbi Mike and others. Special interest courses are starting all the time and our study of Torah is an ongoing activity. Call the office to find out what’s current.
The Irving Dubin library offers a comprehensive collection of Jewish literature and history books for all ages. It is open to the public and also boasts an internet-ready computer.
Assisting those in need during serious illnesses,
bereavement, or family crisis, the Natalie Krantz Caring Committee is there with
an encouraging word or a home-cooked meal. We also make weekly hospital visits
and home visits upon request. As a part of Saint John’s Hospital’s Ministries
Program, the Natalie Krantz Caring Committee also sponsors health education
programs.
Temple Ner Ami’s Tree of Life continues to grow. Additional branches have been added to the beautiful tree that adorns our front entryway. Did you know that leaves could be inscribed to honor or memorialize a loved one? Or maybe a family member is celebrating a special occasion, such as a birthday or anniversary. Leaves make a thoughtful and long-lasting gift. Contact Katie in the Temple office to request a “Tree of Life” information form. The requested donation is $150.00 per leaf.
The Temple’s Yahrzeit Board has spaces available for remembering loved ones who have passed away. The requested donation for memorial plaques on the Yahrzeit Board is $300.00 per plaque. Contact Katie in the Temple office at (805) 388-3824 to request additional information.