Women of the Wall to be celebrated at local Rosh Chodesh service

Women of the Wall will be celebrating its 25th anniversary in Jerusalem on Rosh Chodesh Kislev, Nov. 3 and 4.  In recognition of the milestone, Rodef Shalom Congregation and the Jewish Women’s Center are hosting “Sing A New Song,” Saturday, Nov. 2,  5 p.m. in Levy Hall.

There will be a Mincha service with Torah reading by women from the Pittsburgh community, followed by Havdalah and refreshments.  The community is invited.

Women of the Wall strives to achieve social and legal recognition of women wearing tallitot, praying and reading Torah collectively and out loud at the Kotel (Western Wall), the holiest site for Jews.  Over the years the women have been jeered, spat upon, been the target of thrown chairs and food, and even arrested.

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Recently, Women of the Wall agreed to a “separate but equal” compromise. The Israeli government offered them Robinson’s Arch, a plaza next to the main section of the Kotel.  The plaza will be open 24 hours every day and no reservations or payment will be needed.

Women of the Wall see Robinson’s Arch as a place where women and men can pray side by side, read Torah together, and celebrate their children, both boys and girls, becoming b’nai mitzvah.

Women who would like to read or chant Torah at this service may contact Malke Frank at malkeiva@aol.com or Rabbi Sharyn H. Henry at 412-621-6566, ext. 126.