Temple Beth Torah Shar’aray Tzedek in Tamarac FL.
By Sharon Aron Baron
On June 23, a harmonious mix of Spanish, Hebrew, and English will rise from the sanctuary at Temple Beth Torah Sha’aray Tzedek (TBTST) in Tamarac.
For the first time, the synagogue will hold tri-lingual Kabbalat Shabbat services starting at 6:30 pm. A welcoming “Meet & Greet Pre-Oneg” featuring light refreshments will kick off the event at 5:30 pm.
This unique initiative is part of TBTST’s robust effort to reach out to the growing Latino-Jewish community in Broward County.
Services will be led by two prominent figures in the community, Argentinian-born Rabbi Rami Pavolotzky, and Rabbi Daniela Szuster. The married spiritual leaders moved to Tamarac with their family in 2022 and have since been invigorating the 250-family Conservative synagogue with their leadership.
Broward County is home to an estimated 10,000 Jews from Latin America and the Caribbean, comprising 6% of the local Jewish population. This diverse group includes individuals with roots in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Chile, Mexico, Peru, Venezuela, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. Whether they’re fresh arrivals or long-time Florida residents, the synagogue opens its doors to all.
“This is an exciting opportunity,” said synagogue President Alan Dubrow. “Many Spanish-speaking Jews come from strong Jewish communities representing a young, vibrant demographic. We welcome them to our synagogue, here in the heart of Broward County.”
Rabbi Pavolotzky mirrored this sentiment, expressing his hopes for their Spanish-speaking compatriots. “We believe our fellow Spanish-speaking Jews will experience a strong and immediate connection to our common legacy,” he said.
In addition to religious services, TBTST is known for its wide range of educational and social programs, including a preschool, Hebrew School, Youth Group, and active Sisterhood and Men’s Club.
“Besides coming together to worship in Spanish and Hebrew, we hope to offer opportunities to connect in our warm and welcoming environment for themselves and their families,” said Rabbi Daniela Szuster.
RSVPs are required to join this vibrant tri-lingual celebration of unity at 5700 NW 94th Avenue in Tamarac.
For more details or to RSVP, visit Temple Beth Torah Sha’aray Tzedek or get in touch with Rabbi Pavolotzky or Rabbi Szuster at 954-721-7660 ext 124, or Corin Trachtenberg at Ext 111 (Mon-Thur., 8:30-2:30).
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