Shavuot

Shavuot, meaning “Weeks” in Hebrew, comes at the end of a seven-week counting period that starts on the second night of Passover. This two-day festival is also referred to in the prayer liturgy as Z’man Matan Torateinu (the Time of the Giving of our Torah), commemorating when Moses received the Torah on Mount Sinai. In addition to its spiritual significance, Shavuot has agricultural roots, marking the early summer harvest. It is traditional to stay up late into the night studying Torah on the first night. On the second day of Shavuot, the Yizkor memorial service is recited, as well as readings from the Book of Ruth.

Programs

Tikkun Leil Shavuot
Sunday, June 1
As Jewish tradition dictates, we will commemorate receiving the Torah at Mt. Sinai through communal learning and cheesecake (among other delicious treats)! This experience is intended to inspire us — body and soul — on the theme of building resilience in hard times. This is not the first time that we, the Jewish people, find ourselves in difficult circumstances, nor is it the first time we may be encountering our own personal challenges. How does the Torah guide and inspire us to bounce back from adversity, withstand stress, and adapt to changing circumstances? Together with Rabbis Eric and Jenny, we will explore Jewish wisdom and text, rooted in the Torah, to help us find our resiliency and move through difficult times. Our learning will conclude with an embodied practice (gentle, restorative yoga) led by Dr. Barbara Vosk, intended to help us integrate our Torah learning through yogic rest (all bodies welcome; no experience needed). Come for any part or all of our program.

For the most zealous Torah learners among us, there will be lay-led Torah study following the official conclusion of the program at 11 p.m., taking participants into the middle of the night. For those night owls that would like to participate, please email Deborah to let her know your interest to explore continued learning possibilities.

Shavuot Day 1 Prayer Service and Lunch
Monday, June 2
We will pray the traditional Shavuot prayer service, including a Torah reading and d’var Torah (communal Torah study). There will be a light lunch served afterward.

Shavuot Day 2 Prayer Service, Yizkor, and Lunch
Tuesday, June 3
We will pray the traditional Shavuot prayer service including a Torah reading and Yizkor (memorial prayers for our loved ones who have died). There will be a light lunch served afterward.