Are you new to Charleston? Looking to move here? Or just passing through? Are you looking for a new approach to your Jewish senses and sensibilities? Perhaps you are looking to participate in an engaging community experience ? Are you looking for a family-and-child-friendly congregation? A place perhaps at which to reflect and grow, in an atmosphere of warmth, respect and acceptance?
As South Carolina's premiere coastal and historic city, Charleston is full of appealing possibilities, as a place to visit or to make one's home. And while Charleston has many fine Jewish offerings to explore, you just may want to check us out as well. We are cultivating a special "ruach" at the new West Ashley Minyan (also known, somewhat affectionately, as "WAM").
WAM is an informal group that came together almost 4 years ago to hold Shabbat and Jewish holiday services at Charleston's Jewish Community Center on Wallenburg Blvd. We number about 24 households, and come from various backgrounds and levels of Jewish observance. Our purpose is to provide families in the area of the JCC with a place to observe Shabbat and Jewish holidays as an integral part of living in the larger community.
At our services, we observe Orthodox Jewish ritual and the atmosphere is relaxed and receptive. We have a sizeable contingent of families with young children, and are committed to making our prayer services engaging and accessible to everyone. Participants are invited to bring to WAM whatever level of Jewish connection they are presently comfortable with, as well as a perspective that is open to further personal and Jewish growth. To this end, we have baby sitting and encourage all to participate in our services and educational offerings. Kiddushes follow services every week, and Shabbat is concluded with afternoon and evening services weekly, including Havdallah. Once a month, services are followed by a kiddush-lunch. The purpose of this is to include all participants in a joyous celebration of Shabbat and experience feelings of restfulness and belonging. This monthly program also includes a Scholar-in-Residence program, to provide for our learning and spiritual growth.
Since the nearest hotel is a moderate walk from the JCC, we do arrange home hospitality upon request. There is an Eruv around the JCC and the surrounding neighborhoods. Further links and information about us will be forthcoming.
Until then, you may contact peterosenthal@aol.com for further details. Just include "interested in WAM" in the message title.
L'hitraot and Shalom
Peter R
ps want to know more about Charleston? Try wikipedia! Just remember, this WAM isn't in wikipedia yet!
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