Trina Novak

Trina Novak's headshot

Trina Novak is a past president of Women of Reform Judaism Northeast District and a WRJ Board member and Education to Action Committee Member. She is a past sisterhood president and member of the Sisterhood of Temple Beth Shalom in Needham, MA. A retired special needs teacher, Trina resides in Needham, MA, and enjoys the loving connections she has with husband, Jim Mavor, her two adult children, David and Danya, her standard poodle, Bailey, and her extended family of WRJ sisters. On occasion, she can be seen dancing on the streets with her other women’s group, Muddy River Morris.

teal ribbon for sexual assault awareness month
Women's Rights

Our Hidden Stories

Trish Joseph
Trina Novak
Shoshana Dweck, VP of Social Justice, Temple Shaaray Tefila, Bedford Corners, NY
 April 7, 2023
Nearly all of us have been harassed, assaulted, or both at some time in our lives. We typically don’t discuss this and may not even admit it to ourselves. These are our hidden stories. Telling these stories was difficult, but we felt “lighter” afterward. It was no longer a burden on our souls. By sharing these stories and working on the WRJ says STOP Initiative, we feel we can change the culture in these sacred spaces.
A circle of people with linked arms on the bima of a synagogue
Gender-based Violence

Is it Ok to Hug You?

Trina Novak
Trish Joseph
 April 8, 2022
Do you belong to a “Hug and Kiss” congregation? In our communities, we greet each other with big hugs often accompanied by a kiss. This is part of our culture. These actions are fine if the two people are in consensual agreement. But, what happens when community cultural behaviors cross the line?
This Week's Torah Portion
B'reishit

Parashah B'reishit

Trina Novak
 October 1, 2021
Being an orderly person, I am drawn to Genesis, Chapter 1. God eliminates chaos, provides separation to make space and maximize potential and begins the creation process. Each day brings something new, each with its own unique value to sustain life.
Reproductive Rights Rally - Women carrying signs
Advocacy

Get Involved in Advocacy

Trish Joseph
Trina Novak
 September 24, 2021
Are you interested in Advocacy but uncertain how to proceed? Are you overwhelmed by the number and frequency of advocacy requests? Do you feel like you do not have enough time or can’t afford to be involved? Many women have these concerns. Read about how you can fit advocacy into your life and your sisterhood.