For this months Havurah meeting someone in our group beautifully led us in a deep centering meditation based on the 48 Mussar Middot (virtues based on Jewish ethics as I understand it) from the Mussar Center. Links to learn more are below. Because we were able to choose from the 48 Middot, we all had a customized mantra.
For example, my experience was choosing to meditate on the virtue of courage or ometz lev. Aspects include strength, boldness, audacity, softness and sensitivity of heart. Before looking at the list of virtues or middot, individuals in our group looked through prayer books to choose a phrase. We meditated on the prayer phrase then the middot. My chosen phrase "holy shechinah" and middot word (courage) expressed strength and boldness with heart.
The Mussar Center explains this type of meditation as a combination of inner work and character growth.
After the Havurah members meditated together, we had a lively discussion while simultaneously learning the joy of peeling delicious clementines in a spiral.
Good snacks are always included in our meetings.
All Havurah meetings will begin with a meditation/chant/mindfulness practice. We will then focus on a theme.
Upcoming meetings and events. All are welcome:
Please register here if you are interested in attending any of the upcoming meetings. Most meetings and events are in the home of a Havurah member.
February 14, 7:00-8:30 p.m., Havurah Meeting: Creativity and Spirituality.
Please email Micah Bernat micahbernat@gmail.com for questions and directions. New Havurah members please register through Ohavi Zedek Synagogue.
March 20, 7:00-8:30 p.m., Havurah Meeting, Topic TBA
April 17, 7:00-8:30 p.m., Havurah Meeting, Topic TBA
April 26 Event: Shabbat dinner, 6 p.m. beginning with a Kabbalat Shabbat service led by Yitzi Gittelsohn.
Hineni, Jewish Mindfulness Practice: This event will be at Ohavi Zedek Synagogue and will include guided chanting, meditation and text based discussion. How exciting to have events that enrich our home based Havurah experience with expanded connections and education. The first date will be in February and I will be in touch when the date is announced. This is a continuation of Hineni meetings beginning in 2023 that included a wonderful Hineni Jewish Mindfulness and Meditation Weekend.
Links to learn more:
The Mussar Center: If you could trade 5 or 10 minutes for a really good day, would you? That's Mussar! This ancient path is rooted in the Bible, works for everyone, and will make your day better and more beautiful. --from the Mussar Center website