Mar 24, 2026 | Shabbat Services, Temple Event
Temple Adat Elohim
Shabbat of Gratitude:
Celebrating Our “Leaders and Lifters”
Join us as we honor the many congregants whose time, talent, and heart strengthen our community.
FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2026 | 7:00 PM
TAE Sanctuary
Every strong community is built by people who step forward to help by leading the way or lifting the load, keeping our community thriving.
Please join us for a special Shabbat of Gratitude, a service dedicated to honoring our “Leaders and Lifters,” past and present, who have given their time, talent, and heart to sustain and strengthen our community.
What do we mean by Leaders?
Leaders help guide our path forward and deepen temple engagement by organizing, planning, chairing committees, and stepping up when vision and direction are needed both within our community and beyond our walls.
Who are the Lifters?
Lifters are those who show up repeatedly, often behind the scenes, supporting programs, welcoming others, and ensuring that everything runs smoothly, helping our congregation thrive.
Our kehillah (community) is strong because of both. Some lead, some lift, and some do both.
A Shabbat of Gratitude
On this Shabbat, we honor and recognize everyone whose contributions have helped our community grow, serve, and shine. Rabbi Diamond and Cantor Shukiar will offer a special blessing in appreciation and gratitude to our “Leaders and Lifters” for their dedication and lasting impact on our congregational life.
More than anything, this evening is an opportunity to pause, give thanks, and celebrate the spirit of service that makes our synagogue a place of purpose, connection, and belonging.
If you know any former temple partners who were “Leaders or Lifters,” we would love to invite them as well. Please let Susie Guldbeck know at (805) 497-7101 ext. 104.
Please RSVP by May 12 so we can plan accordingly.
Mar 7, 2026 | Holiday
Celebrate the Story of Freedom
Passover is one of the most meaningful holidays in the Jewish calendar. Each year, Jewish families gather around the Seder table to retell the story of the Israelites’ journey from slavery in Egypt to freedom.
At Temple Adat Elohim, Passover is a time for our community to come together to reflect, celebrate, and share traditions passed down through generations. Through symbolic foods, songs, questions, and storytelling, the Passover Seder brings the ancient story of the Exodus to life.
Whether you’re hosting your first Seder or continuing a lifelong tradition, Passover invites us to gather with family, friends, and community to remember our past, celebrate freedom, and pass this powerful story on to the next generation.
The Meaning of Passover
Seder means “order,” but the Passover Seder is about much more than the steps of a meal. It is a celebration of freedom, tradition, and community.
As we gather around the table to retell the story of our journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, we are reminded of the power of coming together, the beauty of shared stories, and our connection to generations past.
Through songs, prayers, questions, and meaningful rituals, the Seder invites us to reflect on our history, celebrate our resilience, and strengthen the bonds that unite us.
Passover reminds us that every generation has a role in carrying this story forward.
What Happens at a Passover Seder?
The Passover Seder is a meaningful and interactive tradition that brings the story of the Exodus to life.
- Read from the Haggadah, which tells the story of the Exodus
- Eat symbolic foods from the Seder plate
- Ask the Four Questions
- Sing traditional Passover songs
- Share a festive meal with family and friends
Each ritual helps us remember the journey from slavery to freedom and pass the story to the next generation.
Passover Traditions
Passover traditions use symbolic foods and rituals to tell the story of the Exodus.
Matzah
reminding us that the Israelites left Egypt in a hurry.
Maror (Bitter Herbs)
Represents the bitterness of slavery.
Charoset
A sweet mixture symbolizing the mortar used by the Israelites when they were enslaved in Egypt.
Four Cups of Wine
Each cup represents a promise of redemption and freedom.
These traditions transform the Passover Seder into a powerful storytelling experience that connects past, present, and future.Find out more from the URJ >>
Feb 20, 2026 | Holiday
Here’s how you can receive your Mishloach Manot gift:
School Pick-Up:
If you have a child who attends the ECC or Religious School, you will receive your gift there during school hours.
- Religious School: February 22, 24, & 25 during school hours
- ECC: Week of February 23 during school hours
Congregation (Non-School Families):
If you did not receive your gift at school, or if you do not have children enrolled, please see the additional pick-up options below.
- Office: February 23–26, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
- Purim Shabbat: Friday, February 27, 7:00 PM
- Your TAE Neighborhood: Wednesday, February 25 (Check your email for details. An email was sent to each temple household on Friday, February 20, at approximately 4:00 PM.)
👉 If you did not receive the email, click here to find out more.
As a reminder, each household will receive one gift. If you have any questions, please call us at (805) 497-7101.
Why Neighborhood Connections?
TAE Neighborhood Connections brings our congregation together in ten neighborhoods across Ventura and the San Fernando Valley, helping us build meaningful relationships close to home.
As a TAE partner, you are already part of a neighborhood.
Learn about our TAE Neighborhood Initiative here >>
Jan 17, 2026 | Temple Event
An Evening with Omer Wenkert | Survivor Testimony
A powerful live conversation about survival, resilience, and hope after unimaginable adversity directly from a former Gaza hostage.
Event Details
- Date: Monday, February 2, 2026
- Time: 7:00 PM
- Location: Temple Adat Elohim
📍 2420 E. Hillcrest Drive, Thousand Oaks, CA 91301
👉 Please plan to arrive early to allow time for parking and security screening.
This event is free with RSVP.
Those who choose to give are supporting the Hostages & Missing Family Forum and its ongoing work. Donations may be made directly through the RSVP form. RSVP Here >>
About Omer Wenkert
Omer Wenkert is a survivor who was abducted from the Nova Music Festival during the October 7, 2023 attacks.
On that morning, Omer arrived at the festival to spend time with his close friend, Kim Damti, z”l. When the attack began, they fled to a shelter near the entrance to Kibbutz Re’im. During the chaos, Omer managed to contact his parents and tell them what was happening. Shortly afterward, he was abducted to Gaza by the Hamas organization.
Omer’s family later learned of his abduction through a video released by Hamas, showing him handcuffed and lying in the back of a pickup truck surrounded by terrorists.
Omer was held in captivity for 505 days, most of that time underground and under inhumane conditions. For 197 of those days, he was held entirely alone.
Released February 22, 2025, Omer now shares his story to honor those still held captive and to inspire audiences worldwide. Through his talks, he speaks candidly about endurance, hope, and the strength of the human spirit, even in the darkest moments.
About the Experience
Join us for a meaningful and intimate evening as Omer Wenkert reflects on his experience, the challenges of captivity, and the journey of rebuilding life after trauma.
This program presents a unique opportunity to hear firsthand about resilience, hope, and the transformative power of the human spirit.
What You’ll Take Away
- Survival — A firsthand account of endurance in unimaginable conditions.
- Resilience — Insights into mental strength, hope, and perseverance.
- Healing — Reflections on returning to life after trauma.
- Awareness — A deeper understanding of the human impact of October 7.
Presented By
Temple Adat Elohim, with community support from Temple Ner Ami, Temple Etz Chaim, Temple Beth Torah, Congregation B’nai Emet, and the Jewish Community of Ojai
Event Sponsors
Alan Carter, Carrie & Robert Glicksteen, Barbara & Sandy Greenstein, Patti & Bob Murray, Jane Parnes, Beverly & Steven Shapiro, Melanie & Howard Weisenfeld, Gerri Wissot
Questions
Please call us at (805) 497-7101.
Temple Adat Elohim • 2420 E. Hillcrest Drive, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91362
Nov 24, 2025 | Holiday
Shushan Schlepper’s Purim Chai Club Band
The TAE WAY Off-Broadway Players and Temple Adat Elohim in Thousand Oaks proudly announce open auditions for the 2026 Purim Shpiel: Shushan Schlepper’s Purim Chai Club Band — a joyful Beatles-inspired retelling of the Purim story.
Written and directed by Cantor David Shukiar, this lively musical blends iconic Beatles melodies, humor, parody, and storytelling to bring the Megillah to life in a fun, family-friendly way.
About the Production
This year’s Shpiel reimagines the Purim story through parody and musical arrangements inspired by classic Beatles songs. Cast members will perform singing, dancing, humor, and character-driven storytelling. All roles will be energetic, engaging, and fun for both new and experienced performers.
Showtimes
- Friday, February 28 at 7:00 PM
- Saturday, March 1 at 10:30 AM
Who Can Participate
- Must be a Temple Adat Elohim partner (member)
- All ages and experience levels
Note: Roles will be assigned after auditions based on cast size, vocal ranges, and staging needs.
Rehearsals
- Rehearsals will take place January–February 2026 (Sunday afternoons and occasional weeknights).
- A full schedule will be shared at auditions.
Audition Information
- Audition dates will be scheduled soon.
How to Join the Cast
To express interest, ask questions, or receive audition updates, please click here to contact Cantor David Shukiar
Purim 2026
Temple Adat Elohim, Thousand Oaks
Nov 19, 2025 | Holiday
🕎 Spreading the Light of Peace in 2025
This Chanukah, you bring more light into the world with every candle you kindle.
As your Chanukiah (Chanukah menorah) glows, take a quiet moment to feel the comfort that hope, resilience, and togetherness can bring. Each small flame reminds us that kindness matters. A kind word, a helping hand, a moment of patience—all of it brightens the world around us.
The Energy of Community
At Temple Adat Elohim in Thousand Oaks, Chanukah is a time to celebrate together. When we combine our light, our laughter, and our love, we create a glow that lifts spirits and fills the season with warmth and meaning. This is the magic of community — stronger, brighter, and more connected than ever.
Join Our Community!
Click on the link below to find out more.
Choose Kindness. Share Compassion. Inspire Peace.
Chanukah invites us to slow down and embrace what truly matters. We remember that peace begins with each of us. Whether through acts of kindness, moments of gratitude, or reaching out to support others, your light makes a difference.
This Chanukah, take time to breathe deeply, connect meaningfully, and let your inner light guide your actions.
Shine Brighter Than Ever
This year, celebrate the miracles, spread the light, and let your spirit shine so brightly that others can’t help but smile.
May your Chanukah be filled with warmth, joy, connection, and peace. ✨
Temple Adat Elohim • Thousand Oaks
Chanukah • Hanukkah
