Texting Tuesdays

Texting Tuesdays: Where Jewish Learning Comes Alive

10–11 a.m. • Tuesdays in the Rubin Library Conference Room

Together we will use the wisdom of sacred Jewish texts and build a kehillah kedoshah that nurtures our minds, hearts, and souls. Join us for as many as you are able – each week features a different topic and teacher. Texting Tuesdays is free.

Embracing The Liminal: Jewish Rituals Emerge From the Space In Between

Liminal (in-between) moments have always been seen as powerful... and therefore a little dangerous as well. Let's come together to learn about the ancient, supernatural origins of Judaism's wariness over in-between spaces/ times and then explore the many ways our religion has tried to alleviate the danger and embrace the holiness of the liminal.
Tue, Apr 28
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Rubin Library Conference Room
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What Matters to You? Discovering the Values Beneath Our Positions

In Jewish tradition, disagreement can lead to deeper understanding when we learn to listen well. Drawing on Jonathan Haidt’s Moral Foundations framework, this session explores the values that shape how each of us understands right and wrong. Through guided discussion and practical exercises, we’ll practice listening for what truly matters so we can engage in disagreement with greater curiosity, humility, and respect.
Tue, May 05
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Rubin Library Conference Room
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Listening for What Matters: Practicing Nonviolent Communication

In moments of disagreement, it can be hard to truly hear one another. Drawing on the principles of Nonviolent Communication, this session will introduce tools that help us listen more deeply for the feelings, needs, and values beneath what people say. Through guided practice, participants will learn how listening with curiosity and empathy can transform difficult conversations into opportunities for connection and understanding.
Tue, May 12
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Rubin Library Conference Room
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Say Cheese(cake)! A Sweet Shavuot Workshop

What would Shavuot be without cheesecake? Join Farilyn Hale for a fun and delicious session on how to make a rich, creamy cheesecake just in time for the holiday. Along the way, we’ll explore the sweet tradition of dairy foods on Shavuot and pick up tips and techniques to make your own show-stopping cheesecake at home.
Tue, May 19
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Simcha Center
11645 Ladue Road, St. Louis, MO 63141
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How the Rabbis Argued

What the Sanhedrin Can Teach Us About Sacred Disagreement • Jewish tradition teaches that disagreement can lead to deeper wisdom. In this session, we’ll explore how the rabbis of the Sanhedrin structured debate so that many voices could be heard while still seeking truth. What can their model of machloket l’shem shamayim: disagreement for the sake of heaven can teach us about engaging differences today?
Tue, May 26
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Rubin Library Conference Room
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ABOUT

Madeleine Elkins & Harvey Wallace

2025 Harris Frank Community Service Award Honorees

Madeleine and Harvey have been cherished members of Congregation Shaare Emeth since 1996. Shortly after their wedding, they began “shul shopping” and quickly found a spiritual home at Shaare Emeth—a community whose warmth and values resonated deeply with them. Since then, they have become pillars of both the congregation and the broader St. Louis community.

Madeleine Elkins built a distinguished 45-year career in the corporate world, with leadership roles in medical supply distribution and law firm financial management. Alongside her professional accomplishments, Madeleine has always made time for meaningful volunteer work. She served on the board of the St. Louis Breast Cancer Coalition and was part of the organizing committee for the JCC Senior Olympics in its early years. Her dedication to Jewish community life is evident in her service on various committees for the Jewish Federation of St. Louis, including co-chairing the 2017 L’Chaim Event. In 2022, she and Harvey co-chaired the JCC’s J’la gala, raising vital funds for scholarships. At Shaare Emeth, Madeleine is a compassionate member of the Caring Committee, and in 2025, she joined the board of the American Jewish Committee, continuing her lifelong commitment to advocacy and service.

Harvey Wallace is a trailblazer in the accounting world and a passionate community leader. In 1973, he co-founded Brown Smith Wallace, a firm that grew to become the 77th largest CPA firm in the United States, with 340 team members at the time of its 2021 merger with Armanino LLP. He now brings his expertise to Private Fiduciary Solutions. Harvey’s professional success is matched by his extraordinary record of community service. He has held leadership roles on the boards of numerous organizations, including the Jewish Community Center, Jewish Federation of St. Louis (where he served as Chairman from 2015 to 2017), Jewish Family Services, The Magic House (Chairman, 2013–2014), Wyman Center, and the Chancellor’s Council at the University of Missouri–St. Louis. His civic engagement also includes board service with the Foundation for Barnes-Jewish Hospital, the St. Louis Community Foundation, and the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Center. Harvey has been a dedicated member of the St. Louis Men’s Group Against Cancer and was honored with the Missouri Society of Certified Public Accountants Outstanding Public Service Award.

Madeleine and Harvey are blessed with two sons and daughters-in-law, Brad & Elizabeth Wallace and David & Melissa Wallace, and four grandchildren Emma (23), Katie (19), Miriam (13), and Aaron (11).

Together, Madeleine and Harvey exemplify the spirit of generosity, leadership, and compassion. Their decades of service have touched countless lives and strengthened the fabric of our community. We are proud to honor them with the 2025 Harris Frank Community Service Award.