Young people are a vital part of the Rodef Shalom community, and, as such, they deserve a special place in the Congregation. Our youth group provides opportunities for young people to learn about themselves, our community, and Reform Judaism through a variety of programs throughout the year. Our mission is to create Youth High Holiday Services that are engaging and fun, while also ensuring that our children learn the meaning behind these very special days. Purim celebrations are the highlight of the year for all ages, culminating in the congregational Purim Carnival. The Youth Group Hanukkah celebration often includes community outreach, and, of course, a game or two of dreidel.

​

At Rodef Shalom Congregation you will find a selection of youth programs that encompass fun, social action, and religious and cultural activities.  The model is primarily interest-based, which means that while there may be suggested ages for events, any child of any age is welcome to join in any event.

​

We also know that friends aren’t just people under the same roof, so many of our programs involve partnerships with other youth-based organizations. 

​

PJ Library and PJ Our Way help us bring Jewish stories to life and connect us with the authors who write the books we love to read.

​

DG2! Is our Social Action partnership with East Liberty Presbyterian Church where our youth groups come together to help make the world a better place.

​​

Many events involve multiple congregations from around the greater Pittsburgh area, and hosting each event is a shared responsibility.

NFTY is the teen youth movement of Reform Judaism, which is supported by the Union for Reform Judaism. It is within this space that teens have the opportunity to meet other teens from all around the country and build strong, welcoming, inspired communities through teen-powered engagement. Together, we pursue Tikkun Olam, personal growth, youth empowerment, and deep connections, all rooted in Reform Judaism.

Speaking of teens, our Teen Youth Group, known as TheRSTY (The Rodef Shalom Temple Youth) is led by teens within our Congregation. The teen board creates and implements programs within the Congregation, as well as throughout the city and in our NFTY region. Elections for the board occur at the end of each summer, and all teens in 8th-12th grade are welcome to run. 

​

Please take a look at our calendar of events and always feel free to reach out at any time.