A New Initiative from PTBE
Connect | Learn | Grow | Play | Belong
Hinei ma tov u'ma naim: How good it is when people come together! (Psalm 133)
PTBE Circles are small groups of individuals, couples, or families that help make our big community feel small. They build a vibrant, inclusive community where members feel strongly connected to our congregation and to each other. Circles are regular gatherings of eight to twelve congregants in people’s homes, offices, the outdoors or anywhere around the Peninsula that promote relationship building.
Some Circles will connect around common interests, geographies, or demographics for a designated time period. Other Circles will gather to discuss topics of deep concern or importance to their lives. All will engage in meaningful conversations and learning through connection.
- Nicki Fox, Circles Committee Co-Leader
- Julie Lubetkin, Circles Committee Co-Leader
- Jessica Rosenberg, Engagement Committee Co-Chair
- Sherry Lipson, Engagement Committee Co-Chair
- Monica Boardman, Director of Membership Engagement
Are you interested in leading a Circle or have questions? Please contact Monica Boardman, Director of Membership Engagement.
Important Information to Know Before You Sign Up:
Circles are a benefit of PTBE membership. Unless otherwise noted, Circles are for members of the PTBE community only.
Registration is for individuals. If both you and your spouse/partner would like to participate, please sign up individually.
If a Circle is full, email Monica Boardman at mboardman@ptbe.org to join the waiting list.
Please check your calendar in advance and only register if you can make all or most of the meetings
Take a leap! Sign up to join a PTBE Circle Here!
PTBE Spring 2025 Circles
Challah Braiding: Back for a popular third round of Circles!! Join master home bakers Eliot and Kara to make bread and connections. Have you wanted to know how to make your challah look as nice as it tastes? Please join this group for great conversation and to learn how to make beautiful challah.
Classic Rock: Know how to pay an instrument and sing? Join us to learn classic rock songs to play as a group and jam!
Hiking: Join our hiking group for great trails and new friends. If you can hike for at least 120 minutes and are comfortable walking up and down hills, you're all set to explore the great outdoors with us.
Pilots of Temple Beth El: If you are a PTBE member with a passion for aviation and want to spend some time with like minded PTBE Members then this group is for you.
PTBE Bridgers: Calling all Bridge Players! For anyone who loves to play bridge or is interested in learning how to play, this is the Circle for you!
PTBE Whiskey Warriors: We know that there are quite a few whiskey aficionados in our congregation! Our group is going to explore the different types and tastes of whiskeys, including scotch, bourbon, and rye from all over the world.
Roaring Twenties: Roaring Twenties is a fun social group for young Jewish adults (PTBE members or PTBE members adult children ages 21-30) looking to connect and build community.
Saute & Socialize: Get ready to Saute & Socialize in our Circle designed to spark creativity, build skills, and bring people together over great food. Whether you're chopping, stirring, and tasting in a hands-on experience or sitting back to watch and learn during a demo, each session offers something for everyone.
Sunday Cycling Circle (We Bike in Circles): Join the cycling group for great rides and new friends. If you can ride for over 30 miles and are comfortable ascending and descending Kings Mountain, you're all set to explore the great Peninsula roads with us.
Travel, Experiences & Adventures: Join this Circle if you are excited about packing your bags and getting out to see the world. We'll use this circle to share dreams, guidance, personal tips, and just fun stories and anecdotes about traveling the world.