‘Arranged’ is first in Habonim’s annual film series

Temple Habonim’s annual Sunday Film Series kicks off on Sunday April 30, at 3:30 p.m. with the showing of “Arranged.” Rachel is an Orthodox Jew, and Nasira a Muslim of Syrian origin. They are both beautiful young teachers at a public school in Brooklyn. They also have something else in common – they are going through the process of “arranged marriages” according to their respective religious and traditional customs. With family pressure on the one hand and the rejection of traditional values by the outside world on the other, Rachel and Nasira will have to rely on each other and their friendship to pull through this difficult time, striving to be strong women in charge of their own happiness, while keeping their religious and cultural convictions.

“Defying the Nazis: The Sharps’ War” is the film choice for Sunday, May 21, at 3:30 p.m. This is the never-before-told story of Waitstill and Martha Sharp, an American minister and his wife from Wellesley, Massachusetts, who left their children behind in the care of their parish and boldly committed to a life-threatening mission in Europe. Over two dangerous years they helped save scores of imperiled dissidents and refugees fleeing the Nazi occupation across Europe. During this time, the Sharps would face harrowing encounters with Nazi police, narrowly escape arrest and watch as the Third Reich invaded Eastern Europe. Their marriage would be tested severely and the two children they left behind would grow saddened by their parents’ absence. But, dozens of scientists, journalists, doctors and powerful anti-Nazi activists and children would find their way to freedom and start new lives in America because of the Sharps’ efforts and sacrifice. 

The third and final film, to be shown on Sunday, June 4, at 3:30 p.m. has yet to be determined.

All showings, which include popcorn, are free and open to the community. Temple Habonim is located at 165 New Meadow Road, Barrington. Call the Temple office at 401-245-6536 for more information.