Kol Am plans family fun day

FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP - With the commencement of summer, Congregation Kol Am is moving to the great outdoors to demonstrate its uniqueness among area synagogues.

Created in 2002, Congregation Kol Am set out to create a warm, inclusive, literate Jewish community. Starting this month, the congregation will launch a series of events that live up to its motto, "All that's missing is ewe; come join the flock."

On June 10, starting at 11 a.m., the congregation will welcome the public to its annual Family Fun Day at Michael J. Tighe Park, Georgia Road, Picnic Area No. 1.

The picnic atmosphere will offer food and games for young and old alike and the opportunity to make new friends or reunite with old ones.

With the sunset, moon and stars as a backdrop, Rabbi Brooks Susman will invite the community at large to join Congregation Kol Am at its "Shabbat Under the Stars" series on June 15, July 13 and Aug. 10, also held at Picnic Area No. 1 of Michael J. Tighe Park.

According to a press release, this popular program reaffirms basic tenets of Congregation Kol Am's view of Reform Judaism by encouraging families to join together at the end of a week to celebrate the peaceful joy of the Sabbath.

Armed with picnic baskets, flashlights and prayer books, congregants attend the service because Susman has promoted the belief that it is their mere presence that creates a sanctuary.

The "Shabbat Under the Stars" services start at 7:30 p.m. (rain or shine) under the large wooden canopy in the park.

For more information call (732) 792-8000 or visit the Web site www.congregationkolam.org.