Come to talk to God, to your friends or to both

Temple Shalom is the place for you!

By Deborah R. Fidel, JD, MAJPS

There is an old joke about an atheist who goes to Temple every week and sits next to his friend, Ginsburg. One day, someone asks the atheist why he keeps coming to services if he doesn’t believe in God. He replies, “Ginsburg goes to Temple to talk to God. I go to Temple to talk to Ginsburg.”

The truth is, there are many people who go to services every Shabbat to talk both to God and to their friends (and enjoy a delicious nosh at our famous oneg!). In Hebrew, the word for a Temple is Beit Knesset – a house of gathering!

Temple members tell me Friday nights are the highlight of their week. Once people experience the rabbi’s thoughtprovoking and engaging sermons and the magnificent voice of the cantor, it is no wonder so many members plan their week around Friday night services at Temple Shalom.

Services are primarily in English, with a healthy dose of Hebrew. Men and women participate equally. We use both traditional and contemporary melodies. We provide a warm, welcoming and nonjudgmental atmosphere in which Jews of all levels of knowledge, observance and levels of commitment will feel comfortable and be inspired.

Our worship experiences incorporate traditional and creative elements. Several times each year, the Locketz Bima becomes the backdrop for Soulful Shabbat — a joyous service in song, accompanied by a professional band. Another beloved Temple Shalom Shabbat experience is Shabbat the Beach. Bring a beach chair and bury your toes in the sand as we welcome Shabbat together at sunset.

For more information about our individualized approach to dues and our different services, locations and dates, please visit www.naplestemple.org, contact the Temple office at 239-455-3030 or drop us a line at info@naplestemple.org.

You belong here!