It may seem odd in the 21st century to have separate men’s and women’s groups, but hear us out. These are not the Brotherhoods and Sisterhoods of your childhood synagogues. Here’s how it started… a few years ago, we realized that Congregation Agudas Achim was home to a lot of interfaith couples. In many cases, one person was participating in the Jewish activities of the congregation, and the other partner was not participating at all. It just so happened that the participating Jew was often a woman. In an effort to get non-Jewish spouses involved, the Men’s Group was formed. And not to be left out, the Women’s Group soon followed. Both groups are open to adult members of the congregation. Activities are typically announced in the weekly bulletin or via email.
The Men’s Group gets together quarterly and sometimes more often for social events like bowling and playing pool. The group is an easy entry for new members to meet people without the pressure of being asked to do something! Activities are informal and draw different participants based on interest. Memorable outings have included curling (on the ice), axe throwing, learning table tennis, archery, and fencing… all amazingly with very few injuries.
The Women’s Group tries to meet quarterly. Activities have not been as “energetic” as those of the Men’s Group, but when the group gets together, wine is often involved. Outings have included a paint night, a private yoga session taught by one of our members, a visit to the Fuller Craft Museum in Brockton, and meeting for snacks (and wine) to catch up with each other. There’s no set agenda, but it’s always fun.
