New members to be welcomed

Congregation Or Ami will initiate a new tradition to welcome new members during the services at 7:30 p.m. Fri., Jan. 31 at Bay Laurel Elementary School, 24740 Paseo Primaria, Calabasas.

The Reform Jewish synagogue will inaugurate the "Poreis Sukat Shalom," which means "Extending the Shelter of Shalom." With "tallitot" (prayer shawls) of members who have joined in past years, they will create a special canopy to embrace the newer community members. The synagogue serves families in the west San Fernando and Conejo Valleys.

Through music and special prayers the new members will be welcomed. This new ritual was developed by membership co-chairs and Calabasas residents Linda Fingleson and Lisa Richman. It reinforces one of the founding principles of Congregation Or Ami—to nurture and develop an extended family among all members.

For more information, please call Rabbi Paul Kipnes at (818) 222-4922.