Join us for in-person and online events

How the 12-Steps Can Help Everyone Have a Meaningful Hanukkah

November 28, time TBA, On Zoom.

How can the wisdom of the 12-steps (of AA, NA, Alanon, CMA, etc.), and its thoughtful guidance about finding hope and renewal at the lowest points in our lives, inspire us during the festival of lights? Whether you are familiar with the 12-steps or not, insights from the recovery community can add a new layer of meaning to your Hanukkah observance. Join us for informal discussion and reflection on the first night of Hanukkah, facilitated by members of CSZ who have been exploring the connections between 12-step spirituality and Judaism. We’ll light candles (virtually), share thoughts and stories, and have a chance to do some individual writing on hopes and rededication for the 8 days to follow. This is not a 12-step meeting. All are warmly invited to participate – familiarity with 12-step is not required. Registration link to come.

Castro Menorah Lighting

November 30, 6:00 p.m., Jane Warner Plaza at Castro, Market and 17th Street

We’re excited to announce that the annual Castro Menorah lighting is back! The Castro Menorah lighting is a fun family event complete with music, singing, dancing, and jelly donuts! Spin a giant dreidel and light your own chanukiah along with our jumbo menorah! Hosted by Congregation Sha’ar Zahav and Castro Merchants Association and the Castro Community Benefit district.

Daring to Burn: A Ritual for Abuse Survivors

December 2nd from 6:30-7:30 pm., On Zoom.

During Chanukah, we celebrate the miracle of a tiny bit of oil lasting for eight days against all odds. We remember how our ancestors kept up hope in the face of great adversity. How can we translate these lessons into our daily lives as survivors of abuse? Join Liana Thomason of Shalom Bayit for a Chanukah healing ritual exploring how we light our lights and continue shining brightly, even when things are difficult. This ritual, designed for survivors of abuse but open to all, will take place on December 2nd from 6:30-7:30 pm. Be sure to bring your own menorah for candle lighting if you have one. Register for Zoom here

New Member Welcome – In Person

December 3rd from 6:00-7:00 pm., In-Person, before Shabbat services.

If you have joined our community during the past 18 months and have not had a chance to come to 290 Dolores yet, please join us for a New Member welcome. We will have time to connect, hear a bit about CSZ, and tour the building.

We will host another New Member Welcome in the new year on Zoom which will be more detailed and available for those of you who are not local to the Bay Area. Please let us know you are coming.

Hanukkah Shabbat Hybrid (In-Person and on Zoom)

December 3rd, 7:30 pm

Join in Shabbat services either in-person or on Zoom. Keep an eye on your weekly email for registration links to in-person services.

After Shabbat Social for Kaf Lameds

December 3rd, after Shabbat, around 9 pm

Join Sha’ar Zahav’s young adult group (The Kaf Lameds) for an after Shabbat Social at Pilsner Inn at 225 Church Street, SF. Come for a drink, and stay for community! We’ll spend time celebrating Hanukkah, and having conversations honoring the holiday. We hope to see you there! Reach out to Kaf Lamed co-leader Emily for any questions.

Yoga of Rededication: In-Person

Saturday, December 4th, 9:00 – 10:00 am

Celebrate the Chanukah holiday by rededicating our in-person yoga practice, led by Rabbi Mychal Copeland. We will move, chant, and share in our holiday of lights. Wear clothes you can move in. No previous experience with yoga is necessary; mats provided. Can’t come but interested? Email Susie to get on our yoga list. Members and nonmembers are invited.

Registration is required, including vaccination cards and signing our brit/covenant.

Registration Link.

Hanukkahfest Jewish Film Institute

November 28 – December 5, 2021

Join the Jewish Film Institute for 8 days of outstanding cinema and a special Hanukkah celebration. Enjoy 8 days of illuminating programs including a celebration that will recognize the JFI Filmmakers-in-Residence on December 5th. Find out more here.

SZ Theater & Movies Chavurah

Wednesday, December 1, 6:00 – 7:30 pm

This month, we will discuss the film “Neighbours,” a story told through the eyes of a six-year-old Kurdish Jewish boy on the Syrian/Turkish border. See the film on your own, it will be streamed November 28-December 5 , then join us to discuss. The film is part of the Jewish Film Institute’s HanukkahFest 2021. Click here for film info and ticketsFor more information please contact Yvette Adida. Join the Meeting: Zoom link