Connect | Learn | Grow | Play | Belong
Hinei ma tov u'ma naim: How good it is when people come together! (Psalm 133)
PTBE Circles are small groups of individuals, couples, or families that help make our big community feel small. They build a vibrant, inclusive community where members feel strongly connected to our congregation and to each other. Circles are regular gatherings of eight to twelve congregants in people’s homes, offices, the outdoors or anywhere around the Peninsula that promote relationship building.
Some Circles will connect around common interests, geographies, or demographics for a designated time period. Other Circles will gather to discuss topics of deep concern or importance to their lives. All will engage in meaningful conversations and learning through connection.
PTBE Circles are one of the most powerful ways to build real connections within our community. Whether you’re looking to deepen existing relationships, meet new people, or help others feel at home at PTBE, there’s a Circle for you.
Come be part of something meaningful—where friendships grow and community thrives.
- Mindy Shelton, Circles Committee Co-Leader
- Jessica Rosenberg, Engagement Committee Co-Chair
- Sherry Lipson, Engagement Committee Co-Chair
- Monica Boardman, Director of Membership Engagement and Development
See highlights from Spring 2026 below!
Are you interested in leading a Circle or have questions? Let us know, and we’ll try to make it happen. We’re here to help guide leaders and participants. Please contact Monica Boardman, Director of Membership Engagement and Development.
Important Information to Know Before You Sign Up:
Circles are a benefit of PTBE membership. Unless otherwise noted/previously arrange, Circles are for members of the PTBE community only.
Registration is for individuals. If both you and your spouse/partner would like to participate, please sign up individually.
Please check your calendar in advance and only register if you can make all or most of the meetings (only missing one).
Spots are limited and signing up does not guarantee placement in the Circle.
Take a leap! Sign up to join a PTBE Circle Here!
PTBE Fall 2026 Circles
The Artist's Way Circle: One Chapter a Month Edition: Explore The Artist’s Way with time to reflect, write, and reconnect with your creativity. Together, we’ll move slowly through the book’s opening chapters while experimenting with “morning pages” and “artist dates” and building connection with ourselves and one another.
Birding with Friends: A PTBE Bird Watching Circle: Discover the Bay Area’s diverse birdlife in a welcoming, beginner-friendly group where you’ll learn the basics of birdwatching and have opportunities to spot ducks, grebes, herons, shorebirds, gulls, terns, and more.
Canasta: Canasta is a card game of the rummy family. If you have ever played or wondered how the game works, this is the Circle for you.
The Chai Stitch Club Circle: Whether you're an experienced fiber artist or just learning, you're invited to join us for a fun monthly gathering of creativity and community.
Challah Braiding: Back for a popular fifth round of Circles!! Join master home bakers Eliot and Kara to make bread and connections. Have you wanted to know how to make your challah look as nice as it tastes? Please join this group for great conversation and to learn how to make beautiful challah.
Cheese Boards Galore & More!: Let’s get creative and have some fun with the art of delicious and beautifully arranged cheese boards and other innovative food boards. Whether you're a curious beginner or a seasoned foodie, we’d love you to join us for some fun evenings of schmoozing, creativity, and of course eating the beautiful creations we make.
Cooking Collective: Learn how to cook quickly, confidently, and creatively—without relying on a recipe for every meal. Build a toolkit of simple techniques and flexible formulas that make great cooking easier, even on busy weeknights.
Game Nights: If your idea of a fun night out involves some games, some snacks, and some schmoozing, this is the Circle for you.
Israeli Dancing: Looking for a joyful way to move your body, meet new people, have fun and deepen your sense of connection at PTBE? Join the Israeli Dancing Circle!
SF Stairways Walks and More: If you’re looking for a unique and rigorous way to explore San Francisco and discover hidden steps and views, while connecting or reconnecting with PTBE folk, this Circle is for you!
Stone Soup: Join together and meet new friends as we take a modern, community-centered approach to Stone Soup. Participants will then break into six pairs, with each pair preparing a large pot of healthy, hearty soup.
Unusual Wines from Unusual Places: Go beyond Napa and Sonoma and discover intriguing wines, uncommon varietals, and unexpected regions from around the world. Pair them with good food and great company in a relaxed, no-pressure tasting experience.