Belmont synagogue WOW initiative welcomed over 70 women to their Tu B’shvat Seder on Monday night. The hall was packed with a diverse cross-section of the community and beyond, and the room was buzzing. The tables were laid beautifully with delicious fruits and salads, and under Rebbetzin Lisa Leven’s ever enthusiastic leadership, another exceptional WOW (women of worth) event was deemed a huge success.
Preceding each of the four cups of wine, a speaker from the Belmont community, each one a WOW themselves, engaged the audience with an interesting and inspiring take on what Tu B’shevat means to them. Sarah Rose cleverly compared her growth and journey through life with the Tree of Life quoting a moving piece by Yoni Netanyahu. The other speakers and of course Lisa herself, were thought provoking and filled with positivity leaving everyone feeling uplifted and in great spirits.
Rebbetzin Binstock from Raleigh Close interspersed the set events with music. She played her guitar and everyone sang their hearts out. It was delightful!
The evening was a true demonstration of how, when women set their minds to it, they can create dynamic and exciting events that are welcoming and inclusive. The Belmont WOW initiative under the direction of the amazing Lisa Levene, has been refreshing and has demonstrated that whatever you feel about being a Jewish woman today – there is something fantastic out there for you to participate in.