Rosh Hodesh program explores Hagar

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Hagar and Sarah were front and center, as women in the Jewish community gathered in the Baxt Social Hall at the Alliance’s Dwares Jewish Community Center on Oct. 23 for the fall Rosh Hodesh program.

Rabbi Sarah Mack of Temple Beth-El in Providence facilitated a stimulating and educational discussion of “Hagar: The Perfect Stranger.” Attendees explored themes regarding the story of Abraham, Sarah and Hagar, including seeing, hearing and helping the less fortunate.  The women in attendance shared their own thoughts on how Hagar was able to speak directly to God and how that was unusual for women at that time. The women also explored the contentious relationship between Sarah and Hagar and how it may have impacted future generations.

Rabbi Mack was welcomed by Rosh Hodesh committee member Cheryl Greenfeld Teverow, who spoke about the essential work of the Alliance and the impact made by every donation, regardless of the amount. Teverow read a personal letter from a parent of a new J-Camp camper expressing the impact the summer had on her daughter.

“We really appreciate how you promote the sense of community among the campers. She’s become more outgoing and confident (and mischievous in an adorable way!!). We couldn’t have asked for a better summer for our daughter, and we’ll be signing her up at J-Camp for years to come,” wrote the parent.

The Alliance hosts two Rosh Hodesh programs each year. The next program will be held on April 11, 2019. For more information, contact Robyn Goldstein at rgoldstein@jewishallianceri.org or 401-421-4111, ext. 182.

SETH FINKLE is development manager at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island.

Rosh Hodesh, Alliance, Campaign