Shir HaShalom is a warm, inclusive Jewish Renewal community. Our services are a vibrant blend of traditional and creative prayer, chant, meditation, and movement. We meet for Shabbat services and heart-centered Torah study, as well as throughout the year for holiday celebrations. Our services emphasize traditional Nusach (chant), illuminated by Kabbalistic teachings, meditation and movement. Serv
ices are led by Elkah Katz and Miriam Buckman, integrating leadership of community members. We encourage everyone to contribute their own unique wisdom and strength, forming a rich tapestry of spiritual expression. Everyone is embraced as we explore the treasures of Judaism in an open and affirming spiritual community. Shir HaShalom was founded by Hazzan Miriam Fein and Elkah Katz. Hazzan Miriam nurtured the community with her original Jewish soul music and meditative approach to prayer. Though she has moved away, her wisdom and creativity continue to inspire us. (co-leaders of Shir HaShalom)
Elkah's love of Jewish spirituality blossomed as a child growing up in a Conservative congregation in New York City. She was inspired by the way her Rabbi embodied lovingkindness in his actions. She soon discovered in herself a passion for being a companion to people as they discover they are held in the caring embrace of the Holy One--right where they stand, in the “here and now” of their lives. Her experience includes working with Jewish seniors in recreational therapy programming, working with Hebrew School children with special needs, and working as a caregiver for adults struggling with mental illness. She is currently working toward ordination as a Rabbinic Pastor in the Aleph Ordination Program, the seminary of the Jewish Renewal Movement. Miriam Buckman was born in the US and then grew up in Israel. She was raised in a modern orthodox community with a rich Jewish upbringing, and later spread out toward other Jewish movements that spanned over a broader spectrum of practices and communities, always incorporating her love of music, spirituality and nature in a holistic way. Miriam has learned and taught Jewish studies and Hebrew in different educational environments and is a proud co-leader of Shir HaShalom. She is also a teacher of young children, and loves writing, creating art, and being involved in the community. She is currently studying at Fairhaven College in WWU, focusing on fields of education, holistic therapy and ecological sustainability.
