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Welcome to Congregation Beth Elohim —

— an egalitarian, community synagogue located in Acton, Massachusetts. Independent and non-affiliated, we welcome diversity, including individuals and interfaith families, regardless of age, race, gender, economic or family status, ethnic background, mental or physical ability, or sexual orientation. We draw our membership from surrounding towns including Ayer, Bolton, Boxborough, Carlisle, Chelmsford, Concord, Groton, Harvard, Littleton, Stow, and Westford. As an oasis of Jewish life far from areas of high Jewish concentration, we embrace independence in our practice of Judaism. We combine an appreciation for the sanctity of Jewish traditions with a sensitivity to the needs of a population which is religiously diverse.   We have a commitment to social justice that is informed by the core Jewish values that reflect the identity and priorities of our community and we strive everyday to build and maintain an anti-racist Jewish community. Our leadership is committed to the personal and spiritual growth of our members, providing guidance and support throughout life's journey.  We offer a Jewish-themed preschool, and a K–11th grade religious school. If you'd like to learn more about membership, click here.

Around the Shul

Scholar-In-Residence Weekend featuring Rabbi Neal Gold ♦ February 11 to 13

Join us as we welcome Rabbi Neal Gold as our 2022 Scholar-In-Residence. Rabbi Gold is the Jewish Chaplain & Hillel Director at Babson College in Wellesley, MA and the Past President of the Massachusetts Board of Rabbis. The weekend theme is B’tzelem Elohim - All Human Beings are Created in God’s Image - How does this key Jewish value inform us in these times of conflict?. Find many more details and register HERE.

Sisterhood Snowshoe/ Winter Hike ♦ Sunday, January 30 ♦ 3:30 PM

Join us in Acton as we hike or snowshoe on conservation land. We'll enjoy hot beverages and snacks around the fire pit following our winter hike.  Members pay $5. Non-members pay $18. Email sisterhood@bethelohim.org to borrow snowshoes or microspikes.  Find more details and register and pay HERE.  

Would You Like to Chant from the Megillah? ♦ Wednesday eve March 16 ♦ Email Cantor Sarra by February 14

All adults, teens and kids are invited to chant from the Megillah (Book of Esther) this Purim!  Readers can chant 1, 2, or more verses in the unique and beautiful trope (melody) for Purim. Just a basic knowledge of Hebrew reading is required. Cantor Sarra will provide recordings and will be happy to assist in any way.  Email cantorsarra@bethelohim.org by February 14th!

Exploring the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism with Rob Leikind, Director AJC New England ♦ Wednesday, February 9, 2022 ♦ 7:30 PM via ZOOM

This event is part of the Congregation Or Atid Online Speaker Series: "Continuing Conversations on Antisemitism".  CBE is one of the co-sponsors.  The speaker will explore the Working Definition of Antisemitism adopted by The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) in 2016.  Register HERE with Congregation Or Atid.

Simcha (Joy) Circle: New Beginnings in January ♦ Monday evenings, January 3, 10, 24, and 31♦ 7:00-7:45 PM via ZOOM

Let go of the stress and let in the joy! With a little wisdom teaching and song, it’s time to break free and celebrate new beginnings, for us and our loved ones.  Let’s open the door for happiness and success in our lives!   The Simcha Circle is open to everyone, of all backgrounds and ages. Sign up HERE for 1, 2, 3, or all 4 sessions! 

Makor Chochmah: Fountains of Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs led by Rabbi Mike ♦ 5 Tuesdays in March ♦ 7:00 to 8:30 PM

The book of Proverbs, attributed to King Solomon, is a collection of teachings about proper conduct and the nature of divinity. In our class, we’ll look at these teachings, and their connection to our lives, both as individuals and in larger culture. Register HERE for attendance information.

High Holiday Appeal 5782 ♦ Celebrating our CBE Heroes

Nominate a "CBE Hero" from our congregation or staff HERE that you believe reflects Jewish values like Tikkun Olam (Repairing the World)  and Gemilut Hasidim (Acts of Loving Kindness). As we celebrate and honor our heroes, please make a financial contribution in whatever amount you can so that CBE is able to grow and live up to our greatest values. See the list of nominated CBE heroes HERE.

High Holidays 5782 Highlights

We've collected a few of the highlights from this year's High Holidays observance.  HERE, you will find the Co-President's speech, Kerri Garbis's D'var Torah, Cantor Sarra's moving Hineni interpretation, Rabbi Mike's sermons, and Edwin Barker's gift of his rendition of Bruch's Kol Nidrei. Videos and transcripts included.

Lunchtime Talmud with Rabbi Mike ♦ Thursdays starting September 23 through June, 2022 ♦ 12:00 to 1:00 PM

Lunchtime Talmud is back by popular demand! Join Rabbi Mike for some noontime learning and discussions for Talmud beginners and up. This may be held both in person and via ZOOM. Sign up and find details about obtaining the version of the Koren Talmud Bavli.

Sun, January 23 2022 21 Shevat 5782