Sisterhood

sisterhood FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We hope you find this FAQ helpful, whether you are returning or new to Sisterhood. If you have more questions, please reach out – we love to talk about opportunities with Sisterhood!

What is Sisterhood and who should join?

Sisterhood is a vibrant, ever-growing group of 100+ members of all ages who enthusiastically engage, adding their diverse voices and energy to share meaningful friendships, enjoy a range of activities, and make an impact on both our Temple Sinai family and our local community. We’re flexible - you can choose activities that match your interests and your schedule - and you can help create new initiatives.

We are mothers, daughters, grandmothers, wives, sisters, and aunts. Some days we feel we have no time and some days we find extra time. We are women who are pursuing careers or studies, enjoying retirement, raising children, caring for our parents and for fellow congregants.

As a Sisterhood, our strength, sense of belonging, and impact draws from the collective support of us all.

Do I have to be a woman to join Sisterhood?

All are welcome and encouraged to join Sisterhood. Please know that anyone can be a sister, regardless of gender.

What does Sisterhood do?

Sisterhood’s activities reflect the values, needs, and dedication of its members, the Temple Sinai congregation, and our community. Our initiatives support our Jewish practices, build community, and affirm our commitment to social action. Check out our calendar for events for upcoming programs.

How is Sisterhood different from a Circle?

Sisterhood is both similar and different from Sinai Circles. Similar to Circles, Sisterhood is a wonderful way to meet and engage with people who share your interests. Whether you are interested in social action, meeting new people, participating in learning lectures and or book clubs, and/or going on field trips, you’ll find a home in Sisterhood. Sisterhood is a ‘choose your own adventure group’ - you’re welcome to do what works for you and your schedule.

Different from Sinai Circles, Sisterhood has been part of Temple Sinai since the temple’s inception and membership in Sisterhood is not capped to a small group. To join Sisterhood, Temple members simply pay an annual membership dues and are welcome to participate in Sisterhood activities which run year round.

What is the impact of the Sisterhood dues?

Sisterhood members’ dues makes an impact by supporting:

Sisterhood programs, such as guest speakers, cooking demonstrations, field trips, the annual Yom Kippur Break Fast for the Sinai community, and more!

Temple events and temple necessities including repairs to the ark doors and replacing the coffee urns used for Onegs. Your dues also contribute funds to the annual temple gala and Cantor’s Concert, as well as to meet requests made by the board.

The Temple Sinai Early Childhood Center and Religious School. Dues from Sisterhood have helped pay for guest artists and musicians and bookshelves for the Temple’s classrooms. The dues also funds Kiddush Cups gifted to all Bar and Bat Mitzvah students and Tzedakah Boxes gifted to all Confirmation students.

Annual donations to Sally Kelman Social Action Fund, Judy and Sheldon Katz Camp Fund, Fairfield County Food Bank, Schoke JFS Kosher Food Bank, and the new Kosher Food Truck.

A portion of your dues supports Women of Reform Judaism (WRJ), a worldwide network of over 70,000 women in 550 Sisterhoods. The WRJ network is committed to the future of our congregation, our Reform Jewish Movement, Israel, and our role as Reform Jewish women. Learn more at WRJ.org.