Dedication of our Eitz Kehillah – “Communi-tree”

The congregation came together this morning to dedicate our "communi-tree", the culmination of our intergenerational and educational art project led by community artist Tova Speter. Our collaborative project is inspired by the metaphor and strength of trees, focusing on Jewish values and texts that highlighted the importance of kehillah (community) and the interrelatedness of humanity and the hope for Shalom.

The project has many layers reflecting generations, learning, and growth that we experience at Congregation Shalom. The arch signifies a pathway to openness, the tree is a symbol of resilience, and the colorful artwork is a representation of the multitude of our continued hopes/prayers for Shalom in our world.

Participants of all ages worked together to string the beads, while also working individually to create prayers of peace and welcoming. Each participant wrote Shalom in their own handwriting, using colors representing meaningful jewish values.