A new Jewish place of worship has formed in Land O’ Lakes, to welcome people of all ages.
Alan Stern and his wife, Nayda, saw the need to start their own conservative congregation that accepted families with young children.
So, in December, they formed the Family Friendly Temple of Pasco County at their Land O’ Lakes home.
“We wanted something middle-of-the-road for Jewish people in Pasco County to be able to go and meet people who are Jewish, to celebrate our heritage and just enjoy being with one another,” Stern said.
“The object is to have fun, to meet Jews, build relationships, and to educate children and grandchildren,” he added.
Stern himself grew up in a Reform Jewish household, while his wife was raised more Conservative/Orthodox.
They lived in Buffalo, New York, for more than 30 years, until moving to Florida in 2004.
When they weren’t able to find a synagogue in the Tampa area that offered what they were seeking, the Sterns decided to offer services of their own.
It also became a matter of convenience to be able to stay in the area, compared to trekking to conservative shuls in south Tampa.
Conservative Judaism, which is particularly prevalent in North America, seeks to preserve Jewish tradition and ritual, but has a more flexible approach to the interpretation of the law than Orthodox Judaism.
Family Friendly Temple has since been incorporated and will be renamed Congregation Beth Chavraim (“House of Friends”) once it becomes a 501c3 nonprofit.
Monthly Sabbath services have drawn about 20 people, said Stern, who stresses the group welcomes people of all ages, especially children.
“It’s always been about kids, as far as I’m concerned. Kids are the future of our religion,” Stern said.
The services typically run 30 minutes. A Kosher meal is served after, and usually includes homemade Challah and Kosher wine.
In addition to Sabbaths, Stern said services are planned this year for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, as well as Hanukkah. Meanwhile, a prayer book is being created to include Hebrew, its transliteration, and English.
Stern noted the group might track down an additional location for the Jewish High Holiday services, “because I think we’re going to have quite a few people.”
The next service will be Feb. 23. All community members are invited.
Published February 21, 2018
