Social Action

Beth El Temple believes that social action and social justice should be woven into the fabric of every Jewish life. Our projects focus on tzedek (justice), g’mulit chasim (acts of love and kindness), and tikkun olam (repairing the world). The role of the Social Action Committee has expanded and now also includes interfaith efforts and general community outreach. Our members drive the items we participate in aligning with Jewish values.

Some of our activities include:

• Working with Rabbi Capptauber and Dr. Kimeka Campbell to strengthen the relationship between Beth El Temple’s “Millennials Plus” group and the Greater Harrisburg Young Professionals of Color group, including a “Friendsgiving” lunch with a discussion about Black-Jewish relations
• Organizing speakers on social justice themes for the Rose Blecker Breakfast and Learn program, including an event with Lindsey Lughes of the LGBT Community Center in December 2022 and a panel discussion in April 2023 with leaders from Christian Churches United to discuss ways to support homeless members of our community
• Participating in Mitzvah Day on December 25
• A Living Room Conversation on Reentry and Recidivism
• Hosting special themed Shabbatons such as Refugee Shabbat and Repro Shabbat, and inviting visiting Shabbat speakers like Rabbi Gershom Sizomu from Uganda
• Organizing the annual interfaith Freedom Seder
• Helping Afghan refugees arriving in our community (“You will love the stranger as yourself for you were strangers in the land of Egypt” – Leviticus 19:34)

If you would like to be notified of Social Action opportunities or are interested in getting involved, please register below for more information, or contact Jenn Ross directly (jrosshbg@gmail.com).