Join us for a Havdalah Under the Stars

Our community is part of The Society for Humanistic Judaism, which mobilizes people to celebrate Jewish identity and culture consistent with a humanistic philosophy of life independent of a supernatural authority. We are a very welcoming community, and our members are happy to answer questions. Whether you want to know about our congregation’s rituals or where to find a good Jewish deli, we are here to help you. Our Rabbi, Frank Tamburello, conducts life-cycle events and is available for members needs.

Havdalah (distinction/separation) marks the end of Shabbat. The symbols of the Havdalah celebration - wine, spices , and the light of the braided Havdalah candle - help us mark the distinction between Shabbat and the rest of the week.

For Humanistic Jews, the twisted candle represents the many sources of wisdom and beauty, the uniqueness of each of us, and the strength and power that comes from the coming together of individuals. The wine symbolizes joy and fulfillment. The scent of the spices restores us, giving us strength and inspiration to face the coming week with renewed energy. As we extinguish the candle in the wine goblet, we are reminded of the struggle between light and darkness and good and evil in our world. Celebrating Havdalah helps us to recapture the balance between opposing ideas and emotions as we face the joys, as well as the challenges that each new week brings.