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
Nov 13, 2025 | Temple Event
Gathering in Gratitude • 2025
Gather in gratitude for a meaningful Interfaith Thanksgiving Service in Thousand Oaks on Sunday, November 23, 2025, hosted by Temple Adat Elohim and the Conejo Valley Interfaith Association. Together, we’ll celebrate gratitude, hope, and unity through uplifting readings, prayers, and music.
Interfaith Thanksgiving Service features:
- Interfaith Choir with singers from many faith traditions
- Temple Adat Elohim Symphony, our community orchestra
- A world–premiere performance of a brand-new musical piece
- Interfaith clergy and speakers sharing messages of thanks and connection
- Pie & Community — stay for pie, conversation, and community after the service
- Special Offering: “The Prayers of the People in Four Directions” — presented by The First Women Gather Around the Fire of Los Angeles, a Native American women’s group, bringing depth, authenticity, and shared humanity to this year’s service.
🥫 We also invite you to bring canned food donations for Manna Conejo Valley Food Bank, helping local families celebrate with nourishment and dignity.
Parking Information:
- Temple Adat Elohim – 2420 E Hillcrest Dr, Thousand Oaks
If the temple parking lot fills, please use one of the overflow lots listed below. A free shuttle will run continuously to and from Temple Adat Elohim.
- Conejo Valley Church of Christ – 2525 E Hillcrest Dr, Thousand Oaks
- Ascension Lutheran Church – 1600 E Hillcrest Dr, Thousand Oaks
🙏 We look forward to welcoming you to this meaningful Interfaith Thanksgiving Service.
For more about upcoming services and events at Temple Adat Elohim, visit our Events page.
Oct 28, 2025 | Havurah
A Havurah is a small group of temple partners who gather to celebrate Jewish life, share experiences, and build lasting friendships. Together, you might celebrate holidays, share dinners, enjoy concerts and plays, and more.
🙌 Groups are now forming for:
- Women ages 60+
- Couples ages 65-75
- Families with young children
🔗 Click here to find out more about TAE Havurot.
🔗 Click here to submit an interest form.
Questions? Please email our volunteer Havurot coordinator, Cheryl Landsberg, at CherylLandsberg@gmail.com.
Oct 21, 2025 | Temple Event, Uncategorized
🎬 Through Children’s Eyes: Exclusive Premiere Screening
This is more than a film screening—it’s a call to remember, to reflect, and to honor the enduring power of art and memory. Join us, and bear witness Through Children’s Eyes.
Experience the power of the film — watch the trailer. 👇.
🎥 Sunday, November 9, 2025
🕓 4:00 PM
📍 Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, Scherr Forum Theater
Join us for the premiere of Through Children’s Eyes—a moving documentary concert that brings to life the poetry and drawings of children imprisoned in the Terezin (Theresienstadt) concentration camp.
Set to an original score by Cantor David Shukiar and filmed on location in Terezin and the historic Attic Theatre, this film is a tribute to the creativity, resilience, and spirit of young lives lost too soon.
✨ Stay after the screening for a behind-the-scenes conversation with: ✨
- Cantor David Shukiar, Composer
- Mark Saltzman, Librettist
- Steven Shapiro, Executive Producer
Experience an in-depth discussion exploring the extraordinary journey behind the film, from the emotional path that led them to Terezin, to the unexpected miracles that opened doors once thought closed, and the deeply personal process of transforming children’s words and drawings into music.
This behind-the-scenes conversation offers a rare glimpse into a project born of remembrance, reverence, and hope.
👉 Learn more about the film
🎟️ How to Order Tickets:
🌟 Box Office ($33, no fees)
- Cost: $33, no fees
- By phone: 805‑449‑2787
- Hours: Open Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
🌟 Ticketmaster
Pictured from left to right: Mark Saltzman, Librettist, Phedon Papamichael, Director, and David Shukiar, Composer
Pictured from left to right: Harry Patranamis, Director, and David Shukiar, Composer
