Torah partners celebrate four years of study

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For almost 10 years, Project Shoresh has sponsored its Partners in Torah Night! program.  For one hour each week, “study-buddies” meet for informal exploration of Jewish topics and texts, in English or in Hebrew, ancient or modern.
 
On June 12, the weekly session was suspended, as Torah Partners Dr. Laura Picraux of West Greenwich and Miriam Karp of Providence celebrated their siyum (completion) of a four-year course of study.  They had chosen an in-depth analysis of the last 22 verses in Proverbs, which comprise the famous song written by King Solomon about his mother: Woman of Valor.  As they mastered each verse in the original text with classic commentaries, they covered the relevant chapters of two volumes on the subject, “Eishes Chayil: Ancient Wisdom for Women of Today,” by Shira Hochheimer and “More Precious Than Pearls,” by Tziporah Heller.
 
Picraux and Karp achieved their goal, despite the challenges of the last two years.  They followed recommended distancing guidelines and during warmer months, met outdoors at Roger Williams Park or Goddard Memorial State Park.
 
In honor of their accomplishment, Project Shoresh invited one of the authors to attend the siyum celebration.  Shira Hochheimer traveled from Baltimore to address approximately 70 guests at a beautiful dessert reception.  She spoke about another Miriam, the sister of Moses, who impacted her people’s redemption from Egypt, by focusing on the prize no matter the obstacles.  Hochheimer drew parallels to Picraux and Karp, who were dedicated to their endeavor for four years, and she challenged everyone to set goals and emulate that determination.
 
For more information about Partners in Torah Night! and other Project Shoresh programs, check the Facebook page, visit the website projectshoresh.com or reach out to nkarp@projectshoresh.com.
 
Submitted by Project Shoresh
Project Shoresh, Partners in Torah