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Taking Micah on the Road: Neighbors Meet Neighbors
In the quiet weeks of summer, three gatherings brought lively socializing to homes around town, where temple members came together to get to know each other and kibbitz not only as congregants, but as neighbors.
The gatherings--new this year--were prompted by Hineni to connect members where they live while strengthening ties within the larger temple community. Participants expressed joy at connecting names to faces, and already some are planning regular neighborhood get-togethers.
"I met a member who lives behind me, and my son, Alex, got to know some of the kids," said Harriet T., who hosted one of the events. "I think everyone had a good time."
Fellowship among zip-code-sharing members flourished in the homes of hosts Lynne L. and Dennis W. in Chevy Chase, D.C.; Lorri M. and Russ M. in Woodley Park, and Harriet T. and neighbor Evelyn S. in Bethesda. Each welcomed 15 to 40 neighbors to a potluck brunch or dinner.
Among those meeting and greeting was guest-of-honor Rabbi Esther Lederman, who joined Micah as assistant rabbi during the summer. Others getting acquainted ranged in age from toddlers to teenagers to retirees.
"It was great," said Harriet. "There was a group that recognized each other from walking in the neighborhood, but didn't realize they were members. People really appreciated it. Even those who declined did it with sincere regrets.
"People want to make connections, and having it in the intimate setting of the home makes a difference," she continued, adding with a smile, "When I go to Rosh Hashanah services, I'll know so many more people.
[From October 2009 Vine; edited for web publication]
Kabbalat Shabbat, Guest Speaker: Rabbi Rebecca Dubowe