White sandy beaches, banana trees as high as the sky, shimmering blue waves... When we think of the Dominican Republic, these are some of the images that come to mind. But how about Shabbat services, Purim parties, and Hebrew school as well?
At the 1938 Evian Conference, no nation in the world offered a safe haven to the refugees of Nazi Germany - except one: the Dominican Republic. The small Caribbean nation, also known as "the DR," offered to accept up to 100,000 people. But that's only half the story.
Join us for our monthly Kabbalat Shabbat on August 21st and hear how a love of the Red Sox led local businessman Elihu "Hugh" Baver to learn about Sosúa, a small town in the DR that became home for a small group of Jewish refugees during World War II. Baver is the founder of Sosúa75, a project that celebrates the history and living heritage of the town and seeks to promote tolerance and equality.
The fun starts, as always, at 6:30pm with light snacks and conversation, followed by our egalitarian, non-denominational Shabbat services and a kosher buffet dinner.
New faces are always welcome at Havurah on the Hill, so bring your friends.
Schedule of Events:
6:30 PM Wine and Appetizers
7:00 PM Shabbat Services
8:15 PM Keynote Speaker Elihu "Hugh" Baver of Sosua75
8:45 PM Buffet Shabbat Dinner
(vegan and gluten free options available.)
Suggested donation $10.00 per person.
Free validated parking is always available for Havurah on the Hill's monthly Shabbat celebrations. The Vilna Shul is also easily accessible by public transportation. Take the MBTA Red Line to Charles/MGH. For driving, walking and public transport directions, please visit here.
Havurah on the Hill is a non-denominational, egalitarian minyan for Jews in their 20s and 30s in the Boston area. HOH meets at the Vilna Shul in Beacon Hill, one of the last remaining synagogue buildings from the early 20th century wave of Jewish immigration and hosts monthly Kabbalat Shabbat services as well as other special holiday celebrations throughout the year.