Temple Emanu-El to hold a second Pride Shabbat celebration

PROVIDENCE – Temple Emanu-El will host a Pride Shabbat, May 31 through June 2, featuring an array of events, from live music to a comedian.

Friday night will begin with a special Shabbat B’Ma’agal (Shabbat in the Round), with a cappella harmonies led by clergy and congregants.  This intimate gathering will feature music by Nava Tehila, Joey Weisenberg, Josh Warshafsky, Hilary Chorny and others.

Services will be followed by a delicious dinner and a presentation by Jamie Krass, director of youth programs for Keshet, which offers group and summer camp experiences for LQBTQ+ Jewish youth.

On Saturday, Krass will provide a Drash during morning services, focusing on the recognition of multiple genders and sexual orientations in our community in antiquity.

After services, during Kiddush, Krass will moderate a panel, including congregants and community members, sharing and discussing their coming-out journeys.  Afterwards, she will host an information session introducing Keshet’s programming, youth group and summer camping opportunities.

On Sunday night, headlining comedian Michele Balan will perform at 6:45 p.m.  Snacks and adult beverages will be available for purchase.

Last year’s Pride Shabbat was well attended, with 120 for Shabbat dinner, and over 300 for services, Drash, Kiddish and discussion groups. A highlight of last year’s celebration was the presentation of a Torah from Rabbi Mike Moskowitz, scholar in residence at Congregation Beit Simchat Torah, in New York City, showing that honoring people of multiple genders and sexual orientations is native to our tradition.

Reservations are required for Pride Shabbat events and there is an admission charge to see Michele Balan.  For more information and to make reservations, call the temple office, 401-331-1616.

Temple Emanu-El is located at 99 Taft Ave., Providence.

Submitted by the Temple Emanu-El Pride Committee