shorts — bayarea

Two South Bay

synagogues earn kudos for programs

Two South Bay congregations were honored last week by the Reform movement's governing body for separate programs aimed at reaching adult learners and interfaith families.

Congregation Beth Am of Los Altos Hills was one of four Reform congregations nationwide to receive a Congregation of Learners Award, newly established by the Union of American Hebrew Congregations in recognition of exceptional adult learning programs.

Congregation Emeth in Gilroy, meanwhile, was among 10 synagogues honored for outreach to interfaith couples.

The awards came at the UAHC's biennial convention in Minneapolis.

In announcing the award, the UAHC noted that Beth Am offers classes in 11 subject areas, ranging from Jewish culture to prayer and ethical mitzvot.

Emeth was recognized for a program supporting interfaith couples who have not decided which religion they will choose for their children and one for Jewish partners of prospective converts. The synagogue was one of 10 nationwide to receive a $1,000 award for outreach efforts.