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Inclusion Committee
Proudly recognized as one of the first MetroWest ABLE awarded congregations, we are dedicated to making our synagogue inclusive and accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities or limitations.
Family Passover Seder

Inclusion Committee

A Communal Center for Growth, Worship, and Friendship

Temple Beth Shalom is one of the first MetroWest ABLE awarded congregations, designated because of our commitment to ensuring that our building, ritual life, and synagogue programs are accessible to all people regardless of their abilities or limitations.
 

We were the recipient of two MetroWest ABLE grants which were used (in conjunction with additional anonymous donations) to purchase assistive hearing devices for our chapel and social halls and install an accessible door at the entrance to our building.

Shabbat L’Khulam, a once per month Friday evening service, has a devoted following and the word is spreading among other synagogues throughout the Greater MetroWest community about this innovative program. We have created our own dedicated prayerbook, through a generous donation from our Men’s Club, as well as a children’s prayer book which our participants are encouraged to personalize with drawings or family photos. In addition to Shabbat L’Khulam, we run a very successful High Holy Day program which has been well-received by families of all abilities. To help increase the public’s awareness of ensuring inclusion for people with special needs, we actively participate in February’s Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance and Inclusion Month (JDAIM). We are receptive to all suggestions for new programming.
 
Upcoming Shabbat L’Khulam Services:
March 7, 2025
April 25, 2025
May 16, 2025
June 13, 2025
 

We continue to work closely with the Family Programming Committee, Preschool, Religious School and PTA, as well as other committees within the synagogue, to ensure their programs are fully inclusive. 

You can reach the Inclusion Committee at [email protected].

Click here for more information from the Inclusion Committee on Disability Etiquette.

Did you know that TBS has the following accommodations available?

  • Large print prayer books are available to those with visual impairment.

  • Our sanctuary is equipped with an infrared hearing system.

  • All areas of our building are accessible to people who rely on mobility devices (wheelchairs) or crutches. There is an elevator enabling discreet access to the bimah. There is also an elevator to the Cohen Chapel and religious school area.

  • Shabbat L’Khulam (A Shabbat for Everybody): TBS offers a monthly Friday evening religious service accessible to the greater special-needs community. The clergy leads a modified and shortened service that is Halachically (ritually) correct. The Shabbat L’Khulam service includes music and allows for and encourages participation.

  • TBS provides a High Holiday Inclusion Experience to allow for a Rosh Hashanah and Tashlikh activity for all.

  • The Fran and Howard Muser Religious School offers a variety of accommodations and individual instruction to fit every child’s needs.

  • Cantor Sharon Knoller, who has a Master’s Degree in Special Education, provides B’nai Mitzvah instruction. Every student’s B’nai Mitzvah can be personalized to fit their needs and ensure that they experience the joy of this commandment.

  • All Shabbat services are live-streamed for members who may be ill, not able to travel or are more comfortable participating from home.

  • Our entire community is sensitive to individual needs and will modify events or provide accommodations. Always reach out if we can be of assistance.

Are there other accommodations that you or a guest need? Contact us at 973-992-3600 or [email protected].

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