What Shir Hadash Means to Me

Carol Wolf Solomon and Jeff Solomon

“Shir Hadash represented everything that we were seeking – a small, diverse community that is committed to Jewish learning and spiritual growth.
We were welcomed with open arms the minute we walked through the door. Our Friday evening potluck Shabbat dinners in members’ homes are amazing. To us, this is quintessential Shabbat – gathering with family and friends to welcome Shabbat together with blessings, singing and conversation, over a leisurely delicious meal.”

Madelon (Sissy) Price

“I read several books by Mordecai Kaplan (the founder of the Reconstructionist movement) and his son in law, Rabbi Eisenstein. I was enthralled by their concept of God as a power in the universe, simply the good in the world. Not an anthropomorphic being, a concept I had long rejected. That was what really pulled me into the movement. I felt that concept alone was enough to bring me back to Judaism. I had really thought of myself as an atheist until then. Then, when I joined Shir Hadash, their ideas of an all inclusive community, gays, intermarriages, females chanting Torah, pulled me in even further. Their concern with the environment and their ethical values were all important to me. But most of all I have come to love the people in this community – bright, caring, committed.”

Rick Hendin

“The people are very warm, friendly and welcoming. It’s comfortable . . . people are invited to participate (or volunteer) to do as much or as little as they want; it’s a low stress environment for people to practice newly-learned skills such as reading Torah, blowing shofar, leading a discussion, etc.”

Cheryl Whatley

“We are a community of ‘empty nesters’ who enjoy discussion sessions, food, and being in a community where you are known by name and missed when not present.
The community has evolved but has been a part of the St. Louis religious community for quite a long time. I feel uninhibited to try taking on new roles and speaking my ideas. Come for a couple of events and services. Don’t feel as if you have to make a commitment right away. Take your time to get acquainted.”