News

Here are some articles that appeared in the news about
Temple Shir Hadash: 

Finding My Identity Through TSH
by Nancy C.

Not long ago, my family moved to Chelmsford. Having had many job relocations, we've finally found a place to settle as a family. Within moments of being here amongst the relief of my husband having employment, I became acutely aware of being Jewish in a predominantly Christian community. My neighbor had invited me over to her house so that my two small boys could see their Christmas lights. As she turned to her friend to introduce us, she told her, "This family is Jewish. They do things differently…" I suddenly felt like an outsider in my own neighborhood. Growing up in New York, I never had to think about being "different". We were one of many Jewish families. But not here. Within days, my elation about my husband's new job was overrode by my sense of being alone in a new community. I learned very quickly that in the face of difference, my Jewish identity was becoming astoundingly clear to me.

It's been a year since our move, and I no longer feel like an outsider. Thanks to my involvement in the TSH Holiday School and my involvement with Temple Shir Hadash, I feel more connected to other Jewish families. My son has attended the Holiday School this past year, and it has been a fabulous experience. Through our participation in TSH events, we've met many other wonderful Jewish families.

I look forward to widening my circle of Jewish friends through my continued association with TSH.

Committee Reports:

• Communications Committee
  Do you have a nose for news? Then join the Communications Committee!  We are looking for additional members to help us compile stories for our newsletter. People on our committee also get to help with publicizing temple events. Contact Jim at email: newsletter@templeshirhadash.org for more information on this committee.
   
• Membership
  Surpassing our wildest expectations, we currently have 37 families who have become paid members. If you have not already joined Temple Shir Hadash, we invite you to attend our Shabbat services and see why it is so important to help us create a religious community in Westford.
   
• Safety Committee
  The Board has recently formed an ad hoc committee dedicated to setting up guidelines for our members' safety and security at Shabbat Services, Temple events, and the Hebrew School. We need volunteers to serve on this committee to help create a Safety & Security Manual. Our focus will be on security precautions and emergency evacuation procedures. Any additional ideas you may have regarding issues of safety and security would be appreciated and considered.
   
• Social/Social Action (WJC@TSH) Committee
  Our committee has two names; the Social/Social Action Committee and WJC@TSH.  Why? We will drive TSH social activities, much in the same way that Westford Jewish Community volunteers have over the past 10 years. These volunteers have created a legacy, and the participation in our signature events such as the Hanukkah party (now in its THIRTEENTH YEAR!) has been widespread. In addition we are also committed to social action so that we can serve the community at large.