Ben Bag Bag used to say: "Turn it (the Torah), and turn it for everything is in it." Avot 5:22

The sages of old exhorted that we should "turn the Torah over and over," as there is no end to its study.  No matter how many times we examine, analyze, and discuss it, there is always something more profound to be discovered, something new to be gained from the Torah.  Also, in the Midrash (Sifre - Deut. 48) it is stated "like wine, the Torah pleases the heart and improves with age."  Thus, there is much good and delight contained therein — for those studying Torah for the first time, and for those who renew themselves over and over in its wisdom.

Every Saturday morning, at 8:45, we at CST open our doors to everyone wishing to enjoy fellowship and lively discussion as we "turn the Torah."  This informal "happening" started about three and a half years ago, and it keeps getting better as we go along!  The study group consists of laypersons of varying familiarity with the teachings of the Torah, and this is great — such diversity makes our discussions that much more interesting. One of our regular participants, Cindy Silverman, said she personally finds the study to be stimulating and thought provoking.

"It’s great to be with those who make the commitment to come to this," she said. While most participants come regularly (which makes for a more cohesive group), others do so on a less frequent basis.  That’s fine, too - with this informal gathering, it is relatively easy to jump back into the discussion. Another regular, Jim Starr, said, "We’ll help you with anything previously discussed; and we always keep coming back (to topics of previous weeks)."  First-time participant Naomi Choinard said, "It’s (the Torah) a very complex book, and I didn’t know how deep or intellectual the study group was going to be."  However, she knew she would gain something from the study.  Plus," she said, "I knew we were having food here!" (Coffee and some type of sweet nosherie are usually on hand.)  "Piano Guy" Gary Rimar compared the depth and extent of the study to swimming. "Sometimes," he said, "we just put our toes in a little, and other times, we go deep-sea diving."  But not to worry.  "We’ll always throw you a life-preserver if needed," he said.  This is how it is with the group; no one (no matter what their religious background or education may be) ever feels intimidated here.  Besides, as the Torah is all about life, everyone has some personal experience they can connect with the teachings and share with the rest of the group.  Furthermore, no one in the group claims to have definitive "inside information" regarding G-d’s Word as handed down on Sinai.  ("Which is why we’re still discussing it!" said Sidney Bernstein.)  As Richard Sweet reflected, "Sometimes, it’s like a two-dimensional object (humankind) trying to understand a three- or four-dimensional one (G-d)."  We make the attempt, through Torah study, as this brings us closer to G-d.

At the time of this printing, our Torah study group will have finished Dvarim (Deutoronomy), the last of the Five Books of Moses.  We plan to go forward with the Book of Joshua, and other portions of the TaNaKh —Torah, Neviim (Prophets) and Ketuvin (Sacred Writings).  G-d willing, we will then return to the beginning.  We invite you to join us as we continue to "turn the Torah."

This is just one of many activities CST offers for your personal growth and spiritual enrichment.