Social/Chevrah/Outreach

We provide a home for all who seek to draw near to God. We encourage the active participation of our members in all aspects of synagogue life through the performance of Mitzvot (Jewish responsibility), Tzedakah (charity/social justice) and Tikkun Olam (repairing the world).

Outreach/Keiruv/Tikkun Olam

Close Encounters of the Jewish Kind program to non-Jewish schools.(Flier)

The NSTE is proud to provide a unique educational outreach to area high school students that give students an opportunity to visit a synagogue, to discuss their questions and interests with the rabbi. Walls of ignorance and suspicion rapidly fall down as students come to appreciate the contributions made by Jews throughout history and the similarities that exist between Judaism and their own traditions and cultures. The program complements the student’s own course work in Studies of Religion, General Studies and Society and Culture and is for all concerned, a memorable and enjoyable morning.

The program aims to complement the objectives of the course “Studies of Religion” as set out by the NSW Board of Studies. The presentation is entirely educational in nature and does not aim to convert or proselytize.

Community Seder on second night of Pesach brings together individuals and family groups from around Sydney and the world, to re-tell our people’s ancient story.


Community Support

This group makes the world a better place by bringing comfort and joy to others who are less fortunate, helping to fulfil the Jewish directive to care for the needy. They help NSTE’s members as well as the general community. Projects include:
• Annual Senior Citizens’ Community Concert
• December Toy Drives
• Distributing blankets and food hampers
• Running the tombola stall at the Montefiore Home’s annual fete
• Collecting for charities such as Daffodil Cancer Day, Bandaged Bear for Westmead Children’s Hospital
• offering support to organisations such as Aboriginal Medical Centre, Wesley Mission and Willoughby Council and raising funds for the Paralympics.

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Hospital visits /Bikkur Cholim/Yad b’yad/home visits

It is important that the office is informed of illness, hospitalisation or bereavement so that our community may offer support in a timely, sensitive and dignified way. This might include informing other members who are friends and/or associates of the sick or deceased person or of the family, a Board member contacting the family or organising a get-well or condolence message.

If you are, or a relative is going into hospital, or if you are sick at home, and would like to be visited by a Rabbi or member of our Bikkur Cholim committee, please call the office on 9419 7011.

The Bikkur Cholim group of volunteers support the rabbis’ pastoral work through regular visits to the sick in hospitals on the North Shore bringing cheer and companionship to the lonely and comfort to sick. It has its origins in the story that God visited Abraham while Abraham was recovering from his circumcision.

Yad b’yad (Outreach to Individuals in time of need) is a group of volunteers involved in Shiva visits, grocery shopping, providing meals and visiting members on return from hospital.

Mazon, a Jewish Response to Hunger

Mazon Australia is guided by the Jewish traditions of tzedakah (acting justly) and tikkun olam (mending the world) to respond to those in need.
Mazon Austarlia was begun and incorporated in 1989 as a benevolent institution which, through the Jewish community, raises funds and distributes them to the hungry. It also funds research projects to provide solutions to hunger, raising the consciousness of the community to the plight of those who do not have enough food for themselves and their families. Since its incorporation, it has distributed an average of $15,000 each year to various charities and organisations that feed the hungry.

Temple members and others are encouraged to support Mazon by contributing a suggested 3% of the cost of the food for joyous celebrations.

There is also a Hungry Basket in the foyer into which members donate non-perishable food to be distributed to the needy. In addition, Mazon bags are distributed each Rosh Hashanah to be filled with non-perishable items and returned by Simchat Torah.

Mishloah Manot

Mishloah Manot (gift parcels) are prepared and hand delivered by volunteers to all members of the congregation and nominated relatives and friends living in the Sydney metropolitan area. Members are invited to sponsor such parcels.


Outreach for interfaith couples

Our expression of Judaism is woven from many strands that make up Jewish Life. We affirm Halacha (Jewish law) as an evolving process while recognising the responsibility of each and every member of our congregation to make informed choices for personal Jewish growth.

I’m Jewish - My partner Isn’t “Times and Seasons”
Facilitated by Rabbi Elizabeth Hersh with Adrienne Klipin and Rabbi Robuck

NSTE's Outreach Program is a highly successful six-week study and discussion group for partners who were raised in different religious backgrounds. It is designed to help interfaith couples clarify and resolve issues. We discuss topics such as child-rearing, religious observance and relationships with family.

The group is facilitated by a trained family counsellor and our rabbis. The program provides a supportive atmosphere where participants meet others with similar concerns and experiences. Dozens of couples have benefited from this important program. Again, contact us to find out when the next program will begin.

Conversion

Conversion to Judaism is a deeply personal matter. That is why at the North Shore Temple, Rabbi Robuck works closely and respectfully with those who elect to choose Judaism, their partners and their families. (life cycle events)

Our Sunday morning Introduction to Judaism classes our intimate and provide a comprehensive survey of Jewish History and Thought. The beauty and meaning of the Jewish festivals are carefully and enthusiastically presented. Our interactive classroom featuring wireless internet linking students to the most current and helpful web-sites, perfectly complement our course readings. Hebrew language study is required and for that reason, an Introductory Hebrew Reading course is provided. Our famous, One Day Classes in reading, history and Jewish life are part of the introductory program and are fascinating and fun.

Those embarking upon their Jewish journey are given the assistance they require outside the classroom too. Special preparatory sessions are provided to those individuals desiring to meet with the Beit Din (The Progressive/Conservative Rabbinical Council). Several times during the process of study, Rabbi Robuck will meet with candidates for conversion at which time classroom material is reviewed and when personal questions about conversion can be addressed with delicacy and care.

Conversion students are welcomed to the Robuck home for Shabbat dinner and made particularly welcome at all services and activities at NSTE. A personal ceremony is arranged for those who desire to publicly mark the completion of their conversion studies. A dignified mikvah (ritual immersion) is conducted for men and women and milah (circumcision) for those men who require it.

Hundreds of members at NSTE both past and present have converted through the NSTE. To speak about your interest in conversion or to enrol in classes, you may call Rabbi Robuck at the office at any time. Or should you prefer, come along to services. You’ll be certain to meet a friendly face.
(Resources for Jewish Growth and Useful Jewish links)


Israel

We are committed to the State of Israel, Klal Yisrael (the entirety of the Jewish people) and the welfare of all humanity.

Roz Sinclair Community Walk for Israel (Useful Contacts: OneFamily and FIDF)
The inaugural 5 kilometre walk from NSTE to Lane Cove River Park took place in June 2005. It was established to honour the memory of Roz Sinclair, a noble, quiet achiever and a dedicated, enthusiastic walker, whose spirit when battling cancer inspired so many and to assist Israeli charities.

The walk in 2005 collected for the OneFamily Fund and in 2006 for Friends of the Israeli Defense Forces.

 

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