A New Initiative from PTBE
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.
- Nicki Fox, Circles Committee Co-Leader
- Julie Lubetkin, Circles Committee Co-Leader
- Jessica Rosenberg, Engagement Committee Co-Chair
- Sherry Lipson, Engagement Committee Co-Chair
- Monica Boardman, Director of Membership Engagement and Development
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 Spring 2026 Circles
A Taste of Mussar: Get 2026 off to a meaningful start! Come join us for an introduction to the study of Mussar, a Jewish spiritual practice focused on cultivating specific character traits (Middot).
Afternoon 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.
Challah Braiding: Back for a popular fourth 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.
Game Nights: If your idea of a fun night out involves some games, some snacks, and some schmoozing, this is the Circle for you.
Hiking (1): Join our hiking group for great trails and new friends. If you can hike for 3 to 4 hours and are comfortable with some elevation change (but we will avoid extreme climbing), you're all set to explore the great outdoors with us.
Hiking (2): Discover the stunning natural beauty of San Mateo County with fellow PTBE community members. It’s more than just a hike; it’s a chance to build community, one trail at a time.
Boots, Beats, & Belonging: Line 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 Line Dancing Circle!
Mindful Minyan Meditation: Start 2026 and your week with calm, connection, and a spark of inspiration. One Sunday night a month, we’ll blend a PTBE cocktail of Jewish mystical meditation tradition with the practical clarity of Buddhist wisdom and practice.
PTBE Heart & Art: Join us to connect with fellow PTBE members in a warm, supportive, and homey environment! During our sessions, you’ll learn professional floral design techniques to create sustainable arrangements, as well as explore mixed media projects.
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.
30+ Mile Cycling (We Bike in Circles): Join the 30+ mile cycling group for great rides and new friends. If you routinely ride for over 30 miles and are comfortable riding in a group with other road cyclists then you're all set to explore the great Peninsula roads with us.