Bet Shira, House of Song, is an inclusive Jewish community for people from diverse backgrounds who seek a deepening knowledge of Jewish practice, a heartfelt connection to Jewish spirituality and engagement in joyful Jewish life on the Olympic Peninsula.
The congregation is inter-generational, participatory, trans-denominational, and egalitarian. A Shabbat service and potluck dinner is held on the second Friday evening of each month (Young children’s services are also available); Torah services are held occasionally during the year; and there are celebrations, services, and family gatherings for the major holidays (High Holy Day Services, including Tashlich at the beach, Sukkoth, Simchat Torah, Hanukkah, Purim, Passover, and Shavuot). Religious school for children aged 4–10 years old is held once a week.
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The congregation gathers for the major holidays of the Jewish year and for lifecycle events of community members. Services integrate prayer, blessings, a breadth of Jewish melodies, and contemporary insights into their rich traditions. Lay leaders conduct all services. Other activities have included Torah study, Havdalah, klezmer music, Israeli dancing, and social activism in the local community. Both residents and visitors to the Peninsula are welcome to participate. Events are listed in the religious organization section of the weekly local newspaper, The Leader. |
