MZ Small Groups are a great way to get to know a small group of people. Formed around interests, needs, geography, life stage, or profession, they can be done in the home, in an office, or anywhere in the greater Twin Cities. Some groups might focus on a topic of support, learning, or a Jewish experience. Others might be about sports, making crafts, attending arts events, and more! It’s up to you!
Consisting of anywhere between 3-18 people, groups meet regularly, with the number, frequency, dates, and location of meetings determined by the group.
A Journey Space for Anyone on the Path or Already Converted to Judaism
This is a group for (relatively) recent converts to Judaism and those in the process of conversion for open and honest conversations: What drew you to Judaism? What has met your expectations? What has fallen short? Where do you want to grow as a Jew? How has your family and circle of friends reacted? How have you been received by your Jewish community? Participants can expect to read short texts, do short reflective writings, and share their experiences with others.
Bicycling through the Twin Cities
The Twin Cities features many bicycling trails and opportunities to explore by bike.
Classical Music Lovers Group
A group for Classical Music lovers within the congregation to meet monthly and join together in activities involving classical music, such as attending concerts and lectures. The group will select the monthly activities at its first meeting.
Climate Action Small Group
We are geared toward action: engaging all generations to make climate-friendly changes at Mount Zion and to connect with Jewish and interfaith climate groups doing congregational work and working for change in the broader community. The group meets once a month on Sundays via Zoom.
Conscious Aging Women’s Circle (for women 55+)
I hope you will join me for a Women's Circle to explore the complex process of aging. We will explore the challenges and opportunities of aging. We will support each other as we share laughter, tears and new insights for this next stage in our lives
Couples Progressive Dinner Small Group
Couples take turns planning the cocktail hour, main course and dessert while couples enjoy each course at a different home. This group is currently full. If would like to start a similar group reach out to Shai Avny.
Experienced students of Mussar
Experienced students of Mussar are planning for next spring to have a group for other former Mussarians
Grandparents and Grandkids Together
This group will go on fun and meaningful outings that grandkids (from Kindergarten to 3rd grade) and grandparents (of all ages) can enjoy together. Activities would be varied in type and both Jewish-oriented and secular. We’ll plan to get together about every other month and likely plan outings on Sunday afternoons.
Israel Book Club
The group seeks to understand the life and the land of Israel through its own literature
Jewish Genealogy
Our group will meet periodically for discussions, workshops, field trips, presentations and speakers on the topic of genealogy research, including in particular Jewish genealogy, together with the array of non-Jewish histories a diverse membership such as ours may want to explore.
Jews Go to the Woods
A group looking to spend more time in nature. Once we have people joined we will determine people's interests. Ideas include: camping, hiking, skiing, canoeing, orienteering. Anyone is welcome to join.
Long Live Rock!
Is rock music one of your passions? Do you love talking about it and sharing it with others? Then come have some fun reminiscing about and gaining new knowledge of rock music from the 1960s through today! All ages encouraged and welcome!
Meditation Group
This group is open to all who have an interest in meditation, mindfulness, and a desire for community in a Jewish setting. 25 minutes of silent, non-guided meditation followed by brief 'check-in' on how meditation has/is/could benefit self care and spirituality.
Learn more or contact Brian Borre Kevin Friedberg & Jared Miller →
Mixed Roots: Navigating the Interfaith Household
This is a group open to couples, individuals, and grandparents who want a welcoming and nonjudgmental environment to discuss the issues that face a mixed-root family. We will meet four times: (1) the many facets of a mixed-roots home; (2) Life cycle events at Mount Zion; (3) Shabbat and other holiday celebrations; (4) topic of group's choice and closing.
Mount Zion Artists’ Circle
The Mount Zion Artists' Circle Small Group is for visual artists who want to get together to create art and talk with other artists about art in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere.
Musical Theater Group
Introducing musical theater to congregants who don't want to pay high price.
Outdoor activities with John Mast during the Summer!
We will meet once a month on the 15 of each month, to begin with throughout the summer months.
Random Men Noshing
Looking for guys that are interested in taking part in 'random nosh' sessions with other MZ guys. We will create a master list of 20-30 (or more) of those interested, in order to then reshuffle, breakdown, and distribute that list every 2-3 months into a listing of smaller subgroups (5-6 guys each). The random groups will take it upon themselves to have one get together (e.g., breakfast) over that time period, at whatever time and location works best for them all. Then repeating the process again every 2-3 months. Providing an easy and fun way to meet and connect with other men around temple, and hopefully even form some new, lasting relationships.
Resilience and Thriving while living with serious illness and/or disability
I envision this as a learning and support group. I hope that we can increase our resilience through readings, watching videos, and engaging in other activities. I also hope we will provide support for each other.
Stitch ‘n Chat
We will gather, via Zoom, for now, to connect over knitting and crocheting. Show off your projects or a yarn in your stash. Share ideas, tips, and inspirations. Ask for help with a project or technique. Or just schmooze. Everyone and all skill levels are welcome.
Understanding our Kids’ Gender and Sexual Identities
This is a group for parents and grandparents who want to understand their kids’/grandkids’ better. Some have new pronouns; some embrace the word “queer”. This will be a safe space for all questions as we support our loved ones.
Working to Combat Bigotry, Racism, Xenophobia, and/or Demonization of “the other”
Members will contact relevant organizations, such as the AntiDefamationLeague, and other minority communities, to assess what is being done, what more can be done, and to advocate for greater acceptance and understanding of minority communities in our country.
MZ Small Groups can be started by any Mount Zion member. If you would like to lead a group, we are happy to offer you training, workshops, and ongoing coaching support. You’ll never be alone in this process.
Inclusion/Accessibility: We are committed to the values of accessibility and inclusion. As we start our initiative for MZ Small Groups and are enabling anyone to create something engaging, some groups may not work for everyone. Please be in touch with Shai if you have any questions or suggestions.
