IMPORTANT: This is an archive of material created by the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation before June 2012. For current and new Reconstructionist content, go to JewishRecon.org.
# | Submitted | User | IP Address | Congregation's Official Name | City | State/Province | Your Name | Year of Founding | Current Officers | About Your Community | Photo 1 Name | Photo 1 Caption | Photo 2 Name | Photo 2 Caption | Photo 3 Name | Photo 3 Caption | Photo 4 Name | Photo 4 Caption | Photo 5 Name | Photo 5 Caption | Photo 6 Name | Photo 6 Caption | Photo 7 Name | Photo 7 Caption | Photo 8 Name | Photo 8 Caption | Photo 9 Name | Photo 9 Caption | Photo 10 Name | Photo 10 Caption |
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| 342 | Dec 8 2011 - 2:11pm | Victoria Cangelosi | 74.92.126.138 | VC | Jenkintown | PA | VC | 1985 | VC | VC | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 347 | Dec 21 2011 - 3:41pm | Anonymous | 76.109.43.249 | RECONSTRUCTIONIST HAVURAH OF GREATER WASHINGTON | SILVER SPRING | MARAYLAND | ISADORE SEEMAN | 1963 | ISADORE SEEMAN, CO-PRESIDENT BEILA ORGANIC, CO-PRESIDENT AND TREASUER | SEE EMAIL SENT EARLIER. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 350 | Jan 4 2012 - 8:00pm | Anonymous | 71.126.6.136 | Temple Sinai | Amherst | New York | Esther Bates | 1952 | President: Jill Hamilton Vice President: Marina Finkelstein Treasurer: Sid Weiss Recording Secretary: Kathy Gordon | We were the fourth congregation to join the fledgeling Jewish Reconstructionist Movement, and were a Reconstructionist congregation from our inception. I will send you a brief history of our founding and early years in a separate email. [The photos and information about them will come from Martin Wolpin.] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 351 | Jan 6 2012 - 2:48pm | Anonymous | 66.57.61.21 | Kehillah Synagogue | Chapel Hill | NC | Melissa Segal | 1996 | Presidents Beri Schwitzer & Josh Ravitch Vice President of Administration Randy Kauftheil Vice President of Membership Beri Schwitzer Vice President of Education Josh Ravitch Vice President of Ritual Diane Wright Secretary Andy Hart Treasurer Craig Poms Past President Howard Glicksman | The mission of the Chapel Hill Kehillah Synagogue, a Reconstructionist congregation, is to create an inclusive and engaged Jewish community that inspires people’s lives and deepens Jewish involvement through Jewish celebration, worship, education, social action, and values. The Kehillah Synagogue is an egalitarian, participatory, sacred community that shares a commitment to Jewish tradition and values, joy in celebration, education for all ages, inclusivity, social justice, and community involvement. Our members represent a variety of backgrounds and family lifestyles, and we extend a warm welcome to all, including traditional, interfaith, and gay/lesbian families, and individuals. At our founding in 1996, we chose the Hebrew word for community, “Kehillah,” to signify our desire to build a vibrant center for Jewish life, one that would link individuals and families to a caring Jewish community. We offer a top-rate preschool experience and an innovative and engaging religious school. We explore Jewish life with dedication and enthusiasm, as we strive to foster opportunities for personal and spiritual growth. We value our many occasions to bring community members together to celebrate holidays and traditions, rejoice in each other’s simchas, assist each other in times of need, learn together and participate in the life of the broader community through social action and interfaith events. | kehillahsyn.nc.adulted | Adult Ed participants make havdalah candles | kehillahsyn.nc.board | Board members build towers to learn teamwork at the board orientation | kehillahsyn.nc.purimshpiel | Shpielers sing using Mary Poppins tunes | kehillahsyn.nc.rituals2 | Religious School students pose after decorating the sukkah | kehillahsyn.nc.youthgroup | Youth group members enjoy the Sukkah rave | kehillahsyn.nc.rituals | Community members decorate flower crowns for Shavuot | kehillahsyn.nc.rituals3 | Rabbi and VP of Admin pose on Purim | kehillahsyn.nc.rs | Religious school students on Purim | kehillahsyn.nc.rs2 | Rabbi Jen and Moses the puppet visit a religious school seder | kehillahsyn.nc.rs3 | Religious school students display their mizrach |
| 352 | Jan 8 2012 - 6:55pm | Anonymous | 76.27.199.82 | Havurah Shalom | Portland | Oregon | Miryam Brewer & Andrew Forshee | 1978 | The 2011-2012 Steering Committee Members: Bruce Barbarasch, Miryam Brewer,Marty Brown, Andrew Forshee, Marni Glick, David Kertzner, Susan Lazareck, Dan Miller & Executive Committee ( listed below) Youth Member- Ella Sugerman Executive Committee Members: Co- presidents- Alanna Hein & Bill Kwitman Treasurer-Martin Soloway Executive Secretary-Cindy Merrill Corporate Secretary- Josh Ross VP of Education- David Ellenberg Immediate past presidents- Rachel Shimshak and Herman Asarnow | Founded in 1978, Havurah Shalom is a vibrant, diverse participatory Jewish community steep in Jewish values; promoting spirituality, learning, and acts of social responsibility. We aim to foster a creative and innovative religious atmosphere in keeping with Jewish traditions and ethics, while maintaining opportunities for equal participation by all members of the community in determining the direction and goals of the congregation. While we work in close collaboration with our Rabbi, Educator, and administrative staff, Havurah is unique in that our members do much of the work other congregations tend to delegate. Located in the heart Pacific Northwest, Havurah Shalom is a spirited and inclusive community, striving to bring the full meaning and wisdom of our ancient Jewish heritage into our lives. | HavurahShalom.OR.Purim.jpg | Rabbi Joey reading from the Megillat Esther | HavurahShalom.OR.ShabbatSchoolclass.jpg | The 5th grade class visit to the Oregon Jewish Museum | HavurahShalom.OR.Hanukkah.jpg | Hanukkah fun at Havurah | HavurahShalom.OR.KabbalatShabbat.jpg | Kabbalat Shabbat services | HavurahShalom.OR.AfricaTikkunOlamtrip.jpg | We helped build a school in Kenya with AWJS | HavurahShalom.OR.buildingfront.jpg | The beautiful front of our building | HavurahShalom.musicentertainment.jpg | Our talented musicians performing | ||||||
| 354 | Jan 10 2012 - 12:29pm | Anonymous | 97.65.87.2 | Congregation Beth Hatikvah | Summit | NJ | Jay Weiner | 1994 | Executive Committee President: Dan Kiselik 1st Vice President: Lynne Whitman 2nd Vice President: Marjorie Heyman Treasurer: Irv Lustig Secretary: Nancy Yacker and Lois Turiansky Immediate Past President: Katia Segre Cohen Other Trustees Communications: David Stowers Facilities: Myra Cole Fund Raising: Chris Tognola Life-long Learning: Connie Seligman Membership: Marsha Saffian Baldinger Program Co-chairs: Jill Zinckgraf and Tom Zinckgraf Religious School: Andy and Sarah Kaplan Social Action: Robin Freeman Spiritual Life: Jay Weiner Strategic Planning: Jonathan Ratner | Congregation Beth Hatikvah is located at the intersection of Union, Morris, Somerset, and Essex Counties in New Jersey. We think we're building something special here — a progressive community of committed, engaged people, who come together from different Jewish backgrounds and experiences, different traditions, different races, sexual orientation, you name it — and who care about each other, their heritage, and their world. Our Founding Member and 1st President, Bob Max shares our history: The past sometimes is blurred, but I do recall back in 1994 the desire some 25 families had to build something that would express what we thought Judaism ought to be. We met in our homes, and followed an agenda which we wanted ultimately to lead to consideration of which movement we would follow. Someone mentioned Reconstructionism. So we started to examine the writings of Rabbi Mordecai Kaplan. We liked his views on egalitarianism, chosenness, Judaism as an “evolving religious civilization,” and so much more. We ran a tiny ad and invited Rabbi Mordechai Liebling to speak about Reconstructionism. He was then Executive Director of FRCH, later changed to JRF. After his vivid description of the movement I asked for a straw, non-binding vote on our adopting Reconstructionism. All hands raised; I don’t recall a single negative. The decision by our founding group was no longer in doubt. After several lay-led services, the Reconstructionist movement sent us rabbinic students to lead our services. Our first continuous leader was Rabbi Brian Field, from whom we learned much. Religious school with professional instruction was up and running in September, seven months after we started the congregation. Faculty was mostly congregants supported by well-developed curricula. One of our teachers was Nancy Hersh, who became a “master teacher,” and finally the director of our Religious School. She is still with us in that capacity. After a year and a half Rabbi Amy Levenson came to us on a part-time basis. She was the Dean of Academic Studies at the Reconstructionist Rabbinic College. In her second year with us, we decided that, to grow and be a recognized congregation, we really needed a full-time Rabbi. A Rabbinic Search Committee was appointed, and many interviews were held. We could not agree on one. At that point, Rabbi Amy decided she would like to go back to being a pulpit Rabbi, and so she threw her name into the candidate pool. The rest, as they say, is history! After sharing space in various locations over the years, once again space became an issue. We then relocated to the Episcopal Church in Chatham, where we had room ample room for several years. Yet we knew we had to have our own place. A search committee found a building in Summit, right on the Chatham border that would be our new home. When the building was ready for occupancy, a large band of members and friends walked, with Torahs in hand, from Main Street, where the Episcopal Church was located, to our new location. Guided by local policemen, we marched the streets between Chatham and Summit, carrying our Torahs and singing and cheering all the way to our new home. We affixed a mezuzah to the front door, and we were home. Our journey still continues 18 years later. We’re going strong and look forward to a bright future. | bethhatikvah.nj.campjrf | Rabbi Amy and Mrs. Hersh visit our kids at Camp JRF | bethhatikvah.nj.event1 | Our first Confirmation Class 2011 | bethhatikvah.nj.event2 | Founding Members Bob & Shirley Max with Rabbi Amy | bethhatikvah.nj.harmoniyah | Our CBH Singers | bethhatikvah.nj.israel | CBH Goes to Israel | bethhatikvah.nj.leadership | Some of our current and past Trustees | bethhatikvah.org.rituals | Adult B'nai Mitvah Class | bethhatikvah.nj.tikkunolam | CBH in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina | bethhatikvah.nj.youth | Rabbi Amy lights the menorah with our kids | bethhatikvah.nj.home | Dedicating Our New Home |
| 355 | Jan 10 2012 - 2:46pm | Anonymous | 74.103.128.235 | Dorshei Derekh | Philadelphia | PA | Mikael Elsila | 1986 | Minyan Coordinator, Mikael Elsila melsila@HOTMAIL.COM Minyan Coordinator Elect, Sonia Voynow voyboy@verizon.net Outgoing Minyan Coordinator, Naomi Klayman Research@NaomiKlayman.com Treasurer, Arnie Lurie alurie@kormancommercial.com Shaliach Tzibur Coordinator, Ruth Loew rcloew@gmail.com Leyning Coordinator, Bob Epstein bob_epstein@msn.com Membership Coordinator, George Stern geostern@hotmail.com Darshan Coordinator, Adina Abramowitz adina@consultingforchange.com Kiddush Coordinator, Michael Blackman michaelsr99@gmail.com Dishwashing Coordinator, Debbie Stern debstern502@msn.com END | The genesis of Dorshei Derekh goes back to the Germantown Minyan, started in 1974 by Rachel Falkove, Michael Masch, and others. Shortly after its first meeting it moved to Germantown Jewish Centre. Its participatory, lay-led services, largely in Hebrew and including Torah discussions involving personal reflections, were part of a national trend of havurot and minyanim as alternatives to formal synagogue services. The minyan grew and attracted new residents to the West Mt. Airy neighborhood. Within a few years, the minyan had up to 100 participants and divided into several minyanim, one of which was more traditional and one more flexible. After various changes and reorganizations, these two descendants of the Germantown Minyan formed minyanim that continue today. Dorshei Derekh was officially founded in 1986. In 2011, it celebrated its 25th anniversary. The more traditional group, dubbed the “206 Minyan” after the room in which it davvened (prayed), changed rooms and re-named itself Minyan Masorti. The other group, more open to liturgical creativity, met biweekly. Some new members allied themselves with that minyan, and the combined group began meeting in the fall of 1986, settling on the name Dorshei Derekh. This choice was clearly influenced by the Jerusalem congregation Mevakshei Derekh, a Reconstructionist-influenced community that was then independent (more recently affiliated with the Progressive/Reform movement). Later, the minyan went through a number of key decisions. One controversial issue in the mid-1990s was defining the role of non-Jewish family members and guests at services. A more involved decision was to formally affiliate with the Reconstructionist movement. This entailed defining minyan membership, establishing a formal decision-making process for controversial decisions, providing outside facilitators, and conducting discussions with Germantown Jewish Centre. After a lengthy process, the minyan joined the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation in 1999. Perhaps the greatest change from the 1970s or early 1980s has been the re-imagination of the Germantown Jewish Centre as a “multi-minyan” congregation. Dorshei Derekh is no longer viewed as “those other people” but as a key part of the congregation. Many Germantown Jewish Centre committee chairs, officers, and board members have come from Dorshei Derekh, including two recent congregational presidents, Helen Feinberg and Rachel Falkove. In addition, minyan members are involved in education and social action projects with the wider congregation. The minyan itself has constituted a caring community, providing meals and other support for members with illness and at times of loss or of births. This support is based on community connection, not only on who is a close personal friend. The minyan has always attempted to welcome newcomers, but the transient situations of many in our community have made that challenging. The minyan has encouraged people to acquire new liturgical and leadership skills. There have always been considerable numbers of people in the minyan with substantial Jewish knowledge, enriching the community. While many of these are Reconstructionist rabbis and rabbinical students, there are also very knowledgeable lay people. This has made it possible for many to take part in leading the group and in adding to the ideas in discussions. Germantown Minyan members were part of a network of East Coast havurot that met several times a year from the early 1970s until 1981 at Weiss’ Farm in New Jersey and later at Fellowship Farm near Philadelphia. These networks formed a basis for the National Havurah Committee, and numerous Dorshei Derekh members have participated in NHC events and leadership. The minyan has organized its own in-town and out-of-town retreats a number of times, most recently in the fall of 2006. Some practices inherited from the Germantown Minyan, or created in the early years, have influenced the minyan over two decades. Other minhagim (customs) grew over the decades. A few that are noteworthy include: a) Rotating leadership. The minyan coordinator (a chairperson) rotates every six months and with the past coordinator and coordinator-elect forms a three-person mazkirut (secretariat) for decisions that cannot wait. In general, the minyan coordinator position is filled alternately by women and men. b) Participatory decision-making is maintained through quarterly minyan meetings, though attendance is not usually large. Shabbat morning and festival services involve a number of key minhagim. The minyan arranges its space in a circle or semicircle, which emphasizes community rather than a leader. Services include a good deal of Hebrew, with English readings or interpretations sometimes added by a leader. Pesukei d’zimra (introductory psalms) with much singing are often emphasized. The Amidah includes the matriarchs, and some participants phrase blessings in alternative or feminine Hebrew. The Torah reading is done on a triennial cycle, typically with three (rather than seven) aliyot. A key part of the Torah service is the misheberakh blessings, as people volunteer for aliyot to mark events in their lives and receive recognition from the community: birthdays, new jobs, new academic ventures, arriving and departing for Israel, departing for college, a yahrzeit, a new apartment or home. These combined Hebrew and English individual prayers are a way the minyan shares news and support. While officially retaining it as an option, Dorshei Derekh generally omits the haftarah (prophetic reading) except for a few times a year. (The monthly women’s haftarah project in the 1990s was an exception.) [4] Its omission allows for a longer Torah discussion, which follows a d’var Torah. The minyan avoids centralized leadership in these discussions by having each speaker call on the next person. For 20 years, speakers alternated between men and women to assure gender equality, until this practice was suspended as an experiment in the summer of 2006. (If there were more women present than men, a step originated to advance women’s participation might actually limit it.) The Musaf service at Dorshei Derekh is an additional reading, poem, or story rather than another service. The service concludes with introductions, announcements, and a member-provided kiddush. Occasionally a longer lunch and discussion follow services. The minyan originally used the Conservative Silverman siddur with unwritten modifications, but after the Reconstructionist siddur Kol Haneshamah (edited by a minyan member, David Teutsch) was published in 1994, it was adopted by the minyan “as an experiment.” That experiment still continues today! END | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 356 | Jan 10 2012 - 7:01pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Hebrew Congregation of Somers | Somers | New York | Jenn G :) | 1944 | President: Mary Wolchan Treasurer: Cindy Levine Financial Secretary: Jill Dayan Shofar (Newsletter) Editor: Audrey Sherman | The Hebrew Congregation of Somers, with its vibrant and growing Hebrew school, and calendar of social and religious events, is in a unique position to meet the needs of the expanding Jewish community of Northern Westchester and Putnam. Our congregation is a warm and friendly association. We take a lively interest in our members and the surrounding community. The Jewish War Veterans, Post 46 has an annual Memorial Day service at HCS. Our rabbi represents the Somers Jewish community in public events such as the annual Somers Holocaust Memorial Interfaith event. | HCS.Exterior.Jpg | Hebrew Congregation of Somers | HCS.Sanctuary.jpg | Hebrew Congregation of Somers Sanctuary | ||||||||||||||||
| 358 | Jan 10 2012 - 7:18pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Kol Ami of Boca Raton | Boca Raton | Florida | Jenn G :) | President: Howard Diamond Vice President: Joanne Altman Treasurer: Jerry Wasserman Secretary: Stephanie Wasserman | Kol Ami of Boca Raton is a Reconstructionist Congregation committed to tradition and the search for contemporary meaning. Kol Ami is dedicated to building a rich and caring Jewish community. We are growing to meet the needs South Palm Beach County's diverse Jewish population, while maintaining a strong sense of community and belonging. Joining Kol Ami means becoming part of a participatory organization. That means we work together to shape Shabbat and High Holiday services, education, and holiday celebrations. Our services are spirited and engaging, and our holiday observances respect tradition while openly confronting the reality of being Jews in the 21st century. Intimate... Friendly... Inclusive... | KABR.Logo.jpg | Kol Ami of Boca Raton | |||||||||||||||||||
| 359 | Jan 10 2012 - 7:32pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Temple Beth El | Newark | Delaware | Jenn G :) | 1954 | President: Marla Norton First VP: Adina Mattes Second VP: Ed Weinstein Third VP: Arlene Johnson Fourth VP: Bill Spinn Secretary: Terry Prager Treasurer: Jon Wolff Financial Secretary: Jeff Herst | Exciting things are happening at Temple Beth El! Temple Beth El (“TBE”) is a Reconstructionist Synagogue in Newark, Delaware. TBE was founded in 1954 by a core group of Jewish families. Today, we have approximately 270 family units with close to 200 children in our 2-day-a week religious school. Originally housed in an old A-frame on Main Street, TBE moved into its present building in September of 1984. Our social hall was recently updated and, thanks to the generosity of one of our congregants, we are presently expanding our space with a beautiful new, multi-use auxiliary building in honor of the late Vicki Temko. As of August 1st, 2010, we are delighted to welcome our new religious leader, Rabbi Micah Becker-Klein, who joins us from Springfield, Massachusetts. Rabbi Becker-Klein brings with him a new energy and musical inspiration, emphasizing both historical context and contemporary relevance teachings. Our former Rabbi, David B. Kaplan, has retired after 22 years of service and remains a member of our congregation in the status of rabbi emeritus. We invite you to join us for weekend services and experience the warmth and inclusiveness that are hallmarks of TBE. Opportunities for involvement abound at Temple Beth El. Our Men's Club and Sisterhood are central to Temple Beth El’s social community, offering monthly programs, fundraising activities, social action projects, baking, catering, working the Blue Rocks concessions and more. Mens’ Club brunches, featuring a variety of speakers, are held monthly on Sunday mornings and are open to all temple members. Our choir and Klezmer band welcome men, women and teens who enjoy singing or have talent playing a musical instrument. We have an active BBYO chapter that provides social interaction, leadership training and more for older teens and a Teen Connection program for our younger teens. Whether you are new to the area, an old friend or simply looking to experience Judaism in a new way, I hope you will join us and sample the TBE experience or contact our administrator to schedule a tour. | TBEDE.Exterior.jpg | Temple Beth El Delaware's Reconstructionist Synagogue | ||||||||||||||||||
| 360 | Jan 10 2012 - 7:45pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Temple Beth Hatfiloh | Olympia | WA | Jenn G :) | 1938 | President: Brian Boyd Treasurer: Scott Krueger (Couldn't find any more info - calling to see if they'll give it to me) | Temple Beth Hatfiloh is a 160 member-household congregation in Olympia, Washington dedicated to fulfilling the spiritual, educational, social and cultural needs of Jews in the South Puget Sound region. We serve as a Jewish resource for Thurston and surrounding counties. At TBH, we understand that there are many ways to connect with Judaism and Jewish tradition. We are truly a beit am, a “house of the people,” and seek to provide many opportunities for people to engage with Jewish community in a way that is meaningful to them. Our membership is made up of people who grew up Orthodox, Reform, Conservative, secular or not Jewish. We are an inclusive community, welcoming interfaith families, gays and lesbians, people of color, and Jews of all age groups, economic backgrounds and diverse spiritual backgrounds. We offer a full calendar of Shabbat and holiday observances. Our religious services are spirited and engaging, providing inspiration and connection. Our programming for youth is extensive, offering a full religious school program, a teen group and more. For adults, educational and social opportunities abound. We also hold very high the value of tzedakah (“righteous giving”) and tikkun olam (“repair of the world”) and TBH is very involved in the greater Olympia community. At TBH we value the individual's personal journey and seek to provide opportunities for personal connection and growth. At the same time, we recognize the value of Jewish peoplehood, and that belonging to a community and a tradition is of key importance to development and continuity. | BethHatfiloh.WA.Logo.jpg | BethHatfiloh.WA.Exterior.jpg | ||||||||||||||||||
| 361 | Jan 10 2012 - 7:53pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Temple Beth Israel | Eugene | Oregon | Jenn G :) | 1934 | President: Alan Leiman 1st VP: Maram Epstein 2nd VP: Justine Lovinger Secretary: Lucy Zammarelli Treasurer: Kelly Wolf | Temple Beth Israel is a center for Jewish life embracing traditional wisdom with contemporary insight. We promote the spiritual, educational, and social well-being of our members, the Jewish people of Lane County, and the larger community. Our membership includes people of diverse ages, interests and experiences. The congregation is vital and growing with a unique spirit that is reflected in our rich cultural and spiritual life. We are a community-centered congregation, fostering dialogue among the many approaches to Judaism that meet and coexist here. Temple Beth Israel is a welcoming, pluralistic, joyful community celebrating the richness and deep meaning of Jewish life. We look forward to seeing you soon. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 362 | Jan 10 2012 - 9:34pm | Anonymous | 76.250.38.45 | Congregation Shaarei Shamayim | Madison | WI | Dawn Berney | 1990 | Officers • President: Dawn Berney • Vice President: Cathy Kaplan • Secretary: Deborah Kades • Treasurer: Liz Feder • Past Officer: Chuck Kalish | Congregation Shaarei Shamayim is a growing community of over 100 households dedicated to the thoughtful, joyful celebration of Judaism. We have come together from varied Jewish backgrounds; our members' Jewish education ranges from extensive to nothing at all. We work to create an environment where all people feel welcome regardless of their religious, spiritual, political, or cultural identity. We are committed to fostering Jewish spiritual experience through prayer, meditation, study, song, social action, and friendship. | CongregationShaareiShamayim.WI.EducationHighlights.jpg | B'nei Mitzvot Receive an Aliah During High Holidays | CongregationShaareiShamayim.WI.Youth.jpg | Youth Adult Havurah Ice Skating Party | CongregationShaareiShamayim.WI.TikkunOlam.jpg | Rabbi Laurie Leads Shabbat Service During Protests in the Rotunda | ||||||||||||||
| 363 | Jan 11 2012 - 12:17pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation Agudas Achim | Attleboro | MA | Michael Robinson | 1911 | President Stuart Frieman Secretary Peter Schwartz Vice President, Administration (Building, Personnel Committees) Glenn Gruber Trustee Joe Bell (Caring and Kesher) Vice President, Finance (Treasurer, Endowment, Finance) Jerry Cohen Trustee Joel Kravetz (Shabbat hosting and Oneg) Vice President, Community Life (Membership, Social Programming, Youth) Jill Levine Trustee Scott Judson (technology and marketing) Vice President, Religious Life (Ritual, School, Adult Education) Jonathan Nierman Immediate Past President (Ex Officio) Marcia Szymanski | Congregation Agudas Achim is proud to have celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2011. Serving a wide geographic area, the congregation is a vibrant follower of Reconstructionism. Leading Agudas Achim into its next 100 years is Rabbi Elyse Wechterman, who has been the spiritual leader since 2001. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 364 | Jan 11 2012 - 12:34pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation Ahavas Achim | Keene | NH | Michael Robinson | President Paul Bieber Vice-President Jerry Kaufman Immediate Past President Randall Carmel Corresponding Secretary Alyse Bettinger Recording Secretary Claire Fabian Financial Secretary Vivian Prunier Treasurer David Kochman Trustees: Trish Spear Daniella Yitzchak Robert Gewanter Sandy Kochman Judy Rubin Roye Ginsberg Melanie McDonald Menashe Cohen Roberta Visser | Welcome to Congregation Ahavas Achim Congregation Ahavas Achim serves the Jewish community of the greater Keene area as a Jewish center. We believe in a Judaism lived in balance with the world around us and strive to be a welcoming place for Jewish people in southwestern New Hampshire. While most of the members are from the Keene area, others travel from towns like Peterborough, Antrim, and Walpole. Jewish tradition teaches us to appreciate the variety of ways to live a Jewish life. Our community holds education for people throughout their lives as one of our ideals. A variety of education programs are available for youth and adults. We express our beliefs and our traditions through weekly communal worship, incorporating prayer, song and meditation. We welcome all Jews, their families, and interested people to join our community in celebrating and learning Jewish tradition. Our membership reflects the diversity of the beautiful Monadnock region of New Hampshire. Rabbi Sarah Niebuhr Rubin's Vision: Just as the individual has inner physical and spiritual pulses—so too do communities vibrate with spiritual values and physical life. Jewish daily prayers, annual holidays, and life cycle events guide us—individually and communally—in reflecting on our lives and our responsibility to one another other. When we look inward, we find purpose to our physical and spiritual selves. As Hillel taught, "Im ein ani li mi li, uhshe'ani le'atzmi ma ani, if I am not for myself who will be for me, but if I am only for myself what am I?" Self and other are intimately intertwined. Only with both do we have community, and only in community do we have purpose. Rabbi Sarah has been the spiritual leader of Ahavas Achim since 2007. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 365 | Jan 11 2012 - 1:43pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation Bet Haverim | Atlanta | GA | Michael Robinson | Congregation Bet Haverim is wonderfully different. CBH is different because we were founded by gays and lesbians and now enthusiastically embrace all Jews, especially those who don't quite fit the mold and have grown tired of feeling different. This distinction is at the very heart of why we were founded and became affiliated with the Reconstructionist movement. CBH is a thriving community where different has evolved into a celebration of diversity with uplifting, new traditions built upon solid Jewish traditions and values. The daily spirit of Congregation Bet Haverim is casual, warm and sensitive; a refreshing atmosphere of accessibility, inclusiveness, and of expressive love for Judaism. Bet Haverim means "House of Friends". Driven by the pleasure of community, we are a congregation that fully understands the needs of families and individuals whose history, outlook or situation means they have not felt comfortable enough in typical Jewish community environments to relax and be themselves. Alternative families, single parents, interfaith families, gays and lesbians, Jews of color, families with adopted children of color, and Jews with a progressive mindset all experience the safe haven of true acceptance at Bet Haverim. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 366 | Jan 11 2012 - 3:34pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation Darchei Noam | Toronto | Ontario | Michael Robinson | The Darchei Noam Vision / Mission statement Why we exist Darchei Noam exists in order to provide to our members, and to the Toronto Jewish community, the Reconstructionist vision of an evolving, open, Jewish religious civilization, compatible with rational thought and modern knowledge, and to promote the best values of both historic Judaism and contemporary world civilizations. What we do Our members work to maintain and enhance Darchei Noam as a supportive community that provides a source of spiritual meaning and connectedness, and as a means to strengthen our Jewish knowledge, experience and contribution to the community. We value the diverse backgrounds, orientations and experiences of our fellow Jews and we act to address their needs with a wide variety of Jewish responses. We welcome the participation of our non-Jewish associate members in support of the purposes and activities of our congregation. We provide stimulating prayer services and an open intellectual environment supportive of discussion of all matters affecting Jewish life, so that we may better understand and appreciate our Jewish culture and heritage. We educate and motivate our members, both adults and children, to develop intellectual, spiritual and emotional bonds to Judaism and to the Jewish people. We put into action the positive Jewish social values that we as Reconstructionist Jews embrace. Our congregation is meant to be a place where Jews who have similar commitments to positive social change can meet and develop community, and where those seeking to develop an ethical understanding and practice of Jewish life will find learning and support in their efforts. We conduct the life of our congregation in a way that encourages all who enter our doors to experience Jewish life as a source of joy. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 367 | Jan 11 2012 - 3:43pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation M'vakshe Derekh | Scarsdale | NY | Michael Robinson | Our synagogue occupies a very special place in the Westchester Jewish community. It's our place and we'd like it to be your place, too. We are a mishpacha, a family. We welcome members from a variety of life situations, backgrounds, political and religious perspectives. Each of us brings to the community unique interests, talents and needs. We join together in our homes to share Shabbat dinners, Rosh Chodesh discussions, study sessions, social action concerns, Jewish concerns. We travel together, to visit museums and other places of common interest. We celebrate our simchas, our joyous occasions together, and we help each other during times of personal crisis. We care about each other. We come together as a congregation each Saturday morning at ten o'clock for services combining worship, discussion, and study at 133 Popham Road, Scarsdale. Following services, we socialize, talk, get to know each other better, over a shared kiddush luncheon. Congregation M'vakshe Derekh is a Reconstructionist synagogue. As reconstructionists , we have strong commitments to both tradition and the search for contemporary meaning. Through prayer, both Hebrew and English, we forge a connection with the past and with other Jews. Through dialogue and Torah study, we explore the connections between text, tradition, history, culture and the issues that confront Jews living in an open democratic society. Our liturgies draw deeply from tradition, enriching it with contemporary poetry, Hebrew and Yiddish literature, art music and personally written prayers. Our members are encouraged to write and deliver personal commentaries on subjects of interest and on the Torah portion, and to lead parts of our worship services. We would like to meet you, and tell you more about our community, and to extend a personal invitation to you to join the M'vakshe Derekh family. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 368 | Jan 11 2012 - 4:00pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Havurat Shalom | Andover | MA | Eve Maslin | Chuck Goldman, President ; Larry Meiselman, Treasurer; Wendy Hobbs, Education Chair; Zac Rolnik, Vice President; Edie Tonis, Secretary | "Havurat Shalom is a community of families committed to providing a Jewish identity and education for its members, in a manner that is relevant to our contemporary lives." "We provide an open and inclusive community for adults with and without children. We welcome families of mixed heritage. Families who have been, or are members of any other Jewish congregation, or have not recently or, in fact, ever, practiced Judaism in a structured way are also welcome. Havurat Shalom is able to offer a warm, extended family to single parents, as well as single adults. Since the group functions on a cooperative basis, the active participation of every member is necessary. A wide variety of activities is offered, reflecting the varied interests of the members of the group. These include monthly shabbat services, discussions (havurah), tzedakeh activities, social get-togethers, excursions to cultural events and children's workshops." "Our Shabbat and holiday observances are led by Rabbi Karen Landy, a Reconstructionist Rabbi. On the High Holy Days Rabbi Karen is joined by our long time Chazzan, David Hastings, in leading our services. This year our congregation adopted the siddur, Mishkan Tefilah, a wonderful prayerbook including Hebrew, English and transliteration of all prayers, in addition to thoughtful and inspirational additional readings. For the High Holy Days, we use a text that has been developed by the congregation over thirty years, including some original contributions by our religious school children, some of whom now have children of their own." "The Religious School of Havurat Shalom provides a curriculum which includes Hebrew language training, cultural and ethnic education and holiday celebrations. Classes are taught by experienced teachers with small groups of 8-12 children per class. Grades 3-6 meet once a week for 90 minutes. Our early-entry program, Grades K-2, “Jumping Into Judaism”, meets once per month. For information on the Religious school program, please follow this link. Click here and our lead teacher, Morah Sue Stein will contact you." | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 369 | Jan 12 2012 - 9:41am | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Kehillat Ahavat Achim | New Paltz | New York | 1964 | Rabbi - Rabbi Bill Strongin President - Lisa Randleman Vice-President - Wendy Rudder Secretary - Susan Cohen Treasurer - Paul Zuckerman | Kehillat Ahavat Achim, the Jewish Congregation of New Paltz, was founded in 1964 and has been affiliated with the Reconstructionist Movement since 1984. We extend a warm welcome to any who come to join with us in worship. In keeping with the values of Reconstructionist Judaism, we hold a tradition-respectful, liberal attitude toward our Jewish civilization, in which egalitarian and participatory practices are maintained. We are also committed to a respectful attitude for other faiths, and to fostering a pluralistic society in which all seek to further the understanding among the many religious peoples of the one earth. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 370 | Jan 12 2012 - 9:50am | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation Beth Israel | Media | Pennsylvania | B. Vitek | 1929 | Beth Israel is a Reconstructionist congregation in Media, Pennsylvania where you will find a vibrant community of individuals and families committed to celebrating our Judaism, nurturing our members, educating our children (and ourselves!) and repairing the world. Our religious tradition reflects our ancestors' search for meaning, purpose, and value. As we continue in their footsteps, we are egalitarian, participatory, and open-minded. Our diverse views of God emphasize godliness rather than the supernatural. We value that power in the universe that infuses all of creation with a sense of transcendence and impels us to improve the world and ourselves. We express our beliefs in word and deed, prayer and action, learning and teaching. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 371 | Jan 12 2012 - 9:55am | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Kol Tzedek | Philadelphia | Pennsylvania | B. Vitek | Kol Tzedek began as a dream shared among a small group of committed Jews living in West Philadelphia. They sought a community with which to pray, yet the last remaining synagogue closed its doors in the 1980s. An inspired group of leaders started a havurah that met monthly for davenning. The havurah’s success demonstrated a need in the community. Rabbi Lauren, then a rabbinical student at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, worked with the core leadership on a vision for a full fledged Jewish community in which people could gather, pray and learn, celebrate and mourn. Beyond simply creating a bridge from the past, the founders desired to establish something that reflected the needs of those seeking meaningful connection, spiritual grounding for their progressive values, and joyful, life-affirming religious practice. Drawing on skills learned in the Jewish Organizing Initiative, Rabbi Lauren met with potential participants one-on-one, listening to their needs and concerns and inviting them into varied leadership efforts. The initial event, a Hanukkah party in December 2004, drew 150 people and affirmed our belief that there was an unmet need in the community. Kol Tzedek set up its first Board of Directors in February 2005 and began building organizational infrastructure. The name “Kol Tzedek” (Voice of Justice) was chosen by the initial group of members, reflecting the shared desire that justice stand at the center of our mission. Kol Tzedek attracts a wide variety of seekers, including those with traditional backgrounds and those with no formal Jewish background. Our unique religious, cultural, and tikkun olam programming along with our “spirituality groups” engage roughly 600 people, including our roughly 85 member households. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 372 | Jan 12 2012 - 10:01am | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Mishkan Shalom | Philadelphia | Pennsylvania | B. Vitek | 1988 | Board Members President: Kate Judge Vice-President: Sam Friedman Treasurer: Lisa Auerbach Membership/Community: Lisagail Zeitlin Tikkun Olam: Steve Newman Spiritual Life: Joyce Hanna Secretary/Communications: Nancy Post Education/Library: Jill Saull Building/Site: Barrie Levin Strategic Planning: David Boonin Development/Rentals: Kris Soffa Rabbis: Linda Holtzman and Yael Levy Past President: Dina Schlossberg | Mishkan Shalom was founded in 1988 with a Statement of Principles that expresses the synagogue’s commitment to integrating three areas of Jewish life: Torah - study, Avodah – prayer and G’milut Hasadim/Tikkun Olam – acts of caring and repair of the world. Mishkan Shalom is rich in diversity – in Jewish observance, faith, family structure, ethnicity, political viewpoints, income and where members live. People from traditional Jewish backgrounds and families value the congregation’s embrace of those who may have felt excluded or invisible in other Jewish settings such as interfaith families, Jews by choice, Jews of color, single Jews, families formed by adoption, single parent families, Jews with disabilities, Jews with limited means, those with little familiarity with Jewish practice and gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender Jews. In its commitment to a feminist reconstruction of Judaism, Mishkan Shalom integrates the experiences of women into the liturgy with new prayers and rituals. Where ever you are in your journey to find meaning in Judaism, you’re welcome at Mishkan Shalom to share your faith and doubts, to pray, learn and teach. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 373 | Jan 12 2012 - 10:08am | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Mishkan Ha'am | Hastings-on-Hudson | NY | Michael Robinson | Lynn Schmeidler and Gregg Ury, Co-Presidents: mishkanhaam@gmail.com | Welcome to Mishkan Ha'am! We're a growing community dedicated to serving as a bridge between the search for religious identity and the demands of the secular world. As a Reconstructionist congregation, we integrate a deep respect for traditional Judaism with the insights, ideas, and innovations growing from contemporary life. If you are interested in Jewish religion, spirituality, culture, history and philosophy, there is a place for you here, whether you are a senior citizen or a child, single or married, gay or straight, part of an interfaith household, one with longstanding Jewish practice, or no previous Jewish affiliation. About half of our members live in southern Westchester County and half live in the Riverdale/Kingsbridge area of the Bronx. At present, many of our ongoing programs take place at the the Reform Church of Hastings, 18 Farragut Avenue in Hastings-on-Hudson, while we look for a more permanent home in the Riverdale-Yonkers-Hastings area. Led by Rabbi Ezra Weinberg, a graduate of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, we gather for Shabbat services two weekends each month - typically providing a service and discussion for adults on Friday night, and a service geared for children and adults on alternate Saturday mornings, as well as Havdalah services combined with other programming on Saturday evenings. We also gather as acommunity to celebrate holidays and life cycle events together and organize regular programs related to the Jewish experience. She'arim/Gateways, our innovative approach to Hebrew School, meets weekly and offers classes for children ranging in age from kindergarten to seventh grade. We also offer a free Pre-K program on Shabbat mornings once a month. During the year in which families approach Bar/Bat Mitzvah, parents and young people together share in a unique group exploration in preparation for the milestone event. Our Adult education program includes Thursday evening seminars, a study group that meets monthly to discuss selected readings, and monthly Saturday evening Havdalah discussions. In our Beit Midrash study series, held on selected Thursday evenings throughout the year, Rabbi Ezra Weinberg guides participants in an in-depth exploration of Jewish texts from ancient times to the present. Tikkun Olam/Social Action committee organizes and invites adult and family participation in local community needs and beyond. All of this activity occurs only with the active participation of our members, each of whom brings something unique to our community. Mishkan Ha’am’s community, the “tent of the people,” is constructed of the gifts that each one brings: the faith and doubts shared, the questions voiced, the wisdom offered, the melodies sung, the compassion shown, as well as the many forms of hands-on assistance needed to bring activities to life. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 374 | Jan 12 2012 - 10:10am | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Temple Bnai Israel | Willimantic | Connecticut | B. Vitek | President- David Stoloff Immediate Past President Sharon Brettschneider Kesher/Secretary & Communications- Marilyn Moir Tikkun Olam- Anne Willenborg Kemah/Treasurer - Doreen Simonsen Financial Secretary- Fran Jaffe Avodah/Religious Life- Judith Stein Mishkan/Building & Operations- Jim Baber Torah/Education & Programming- Mitzi Horowitz Brit/Community & Membership- David Golden | Temple Bnai Israel has been part of the greater Willimantic community for over 100 years. We have been in our building on Jackson Street since the mid-1960's. We are proud to have passed a spark of Torah from generation to generation. Our Temple affiliated with the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation in 2001. The Reconstructionist movement considers Judaism an evolving religious civilization and views our religious traditions as reflecting our ancestors' search for meaning, purpose, and values. For Reconstructionists, Judaism is more than Jewish religion; it is the entire cultural legacy of the Jewish people. As a Reconstructionist congregation, we value communal learning and democratic decision-making. We come from a wide range of backgrounds, observe in different manners and chose varied ways to be involved in Temple life. As you will see when you join us for services and special events, we also have much in common: warmth, friendliness, and dedication to one another, the Temple Bnai Israel community, and the larger community we live in. We embrace all who welcome Judaism into their lives. We support the commitment of interfaith couples who work together to raise Jewish children in an atmosphere of respect for all. Our non-Jewish family members are very much involved in a wide variety of Temple activities. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 375 | Jan 12 2012 - 10:40am | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Beth-El Zedeck | Indianapolis | IN | Michael Robinson | Board of Directors 2011-2013 President: Steven Crell Vice-President: Ellen Gabovitch Vice-President: Rebecca Geyer Treasurer: Brian Nachlis Secretary: Paul Felix Phyllis Ackerman Shelly Autor Jerry Bluestein Annette Doherty Joel Epstein Tom Feigenbaum Dan Fox Steve Goldman Jeffrey Greenberg Cindie Harp John Hoover Todd Katz Wendy Keller Lee Learman Amy Lutz Joseph Mark Ellen McNutt Rebecca Miller Jane Morrison Bernard Pylitt Doug Rubenstein Susan Schwab Maria Simon Marie Warshauer | Unique and creative, Congregation Beth-El Zedeck has kept pace with the changes of modern Jewish thought, while embracing the richness of our religious civilization. The rabbinic and lay leadership of the synagogue have attained local and rabbinical recognition and our congregation has been commended for its innovative and creative programming. We are affiliated with both the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism and the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 376 | Jan 12 2012 - 10:45am | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Kehillat Israel | Lansing | MI | Michael Robinson | Judaism for the Heart, Head, and Spirit Judaism for the Heart... •Welcoming to Jews of diverse backgrounds and orientations, as well as interfaith families •A nurturing and supportive community, committed to caring for each other and the larger world as well •Support in times of sorrow and times of joy Judaism for the Head... •Lifelong Jewish education, preschool through adult •Active engagement with Torah, tradition, and theology •Innovative programs in intergenerational education Judaism for the Spirit... •Lively and engaging Shabbat and holiday services and celebrations, led by the rabbi and by members •Programs in Jewish meditation, spirituality, and healing •Pastoral support and spiritual direction "For my house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples. Thus declares the Eternal One, who gathers the dispersed of Israel: I will gather even more to those who are gathered." —Isaiah 56:7-8 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 377 | Jan 12 2012 - 11:58am | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | B'Nai Havurah | Denver | CO | Maryanne Thompson | 1961 | Bobbie Van Horn Member Vicki Haber Member Craig Rudman Member Gail Ben Ezra Member Joan Wallis Vice Chair Programs & Svcs Jay Mayer Member Alan Greenberg Vice Chair Education Joyce Thorn Member Lorrie Guttman Secretary Lissa Levin Member Julie DuPree and Marc Krasner Treasurer Katie Reinisch Member Jim Gutman Past-Chair Paula Gudder Member Julie Malek Past-Chair Sandy Goldman Member PB Schechter Chair Ruth Chapman Member Marla Cohen Executive Director (non-voting) Stephanie Shpall Member Rabbi Evette Lutman (non-voting) | B’Nai Havurah – Denver Colorado B'nai Havurah is an inclusive, participatory Jewish Reconstructionist community (Kehillah) that is passionately committed to experiencing Judaism by infusing tradition with renewed meaning in a contemporary American context. We do this through study (Torah), worship and joyous practice (Avodah), social justice (Tikun Olam), acts of kindness (Gemilut Hasidim), and connection with the Jewish People (Am Yisrael). B'nai Havurah had its beginnings as a fellowship/study group (havurah) founded in 1961 because of an appearance by Rabbi Ira Eisenstein - a key figure in the Reconstructionist movement - at the B'nai Brith Summer Institute. By 1969, the group had grown to four havurot, and members began a school for their children. The community continued to grow, and in 1983 the first rabbi was hired. We continue to grow and have enjoyed rabbinic leadership for over 25 years. The current building at 6445 East Ohio Avenue was purchased in 1995, and now houses a large sanctuary/meeting room, classrooms, library, multi-purpose room, and office space. Today, the Colorado Jewish Reconstructionist Federation is a community of approximately twenty havurot (Jewish fellowship groups). As the "umbrella organization" for the havurot, B'nai Havurah provides havurah members with a number of community-wide resources, such as a Religious School (Kindergarten through Confirmation), Shabbat and festival services, and a variety of ongoing programs. Each havurah is represented on the B'nai Havurah Federation Council, which governs the life of the entire B'nai Havurah community. B'nai Havurah also provides the services of a full-time rabbi, who serves as spiritual leader and resource for havurot and havurah members. Members continue to form havurot, participate in our school, create and lead diverse services and produce innovative programs. Here in Denver, B'nai Havurah has been a creative and vibrant force in the Jewish community for over thirty years. Current Rabbi - Rabbi Evette Lutman | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 378 | Jan 12 2012 - 12:05pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Knesseth Israel Temple | Wooster | OH | Michael Robinson | Welcome to our Wooster, Ohio Jewish community! There has been an active Jewish population in the Wooster area since the 1840's. In the 1880's, the group of about 20 Jewish families (mostly merchants) decided they needed to form a more structured religious community -- and in 1931, their dream of a permanent house of worship came true with the establishment of Knesseth Israel Temple (KIT). Originally Orthodox to accommodate the religious needs and tastes of many recent immigrants to the US, KIT formed a comfortable compromise between Conservative and Reform practice and in the 1990's affiliated as a Reconstructionist congregation. For many years it is believed that KIT was the smallest congregation in the country with a full time rabbi. Today, our part-time Rabbi and part-time Cantor offer services every other Friday night (with some exceptions in the summer months). Our current membership totals approximately 35 families of all ages and walks of life. The Wooster area boosts 4 institutions of higher learning within an 8-mile radius, which gives the community an educational and ethnic diversity much more varied than generally seen in a town this size. KIT offers educational programs for all ages, and services are available for life transition events. We offer many opportunities to become involved with the temple community through holding board office or serving on committees. We maintain a strong connection to Wooster and many of our members are involved in civic enterprises. We pride ourselves on our Jewish community -- thriving for over 130 years -- and still going strong! We would be happy to welcome you for a visit or as a member. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 379 | Jan 12 2012 - 12:22pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Kol HaLev | Cleveland | OH | Michael Robinson | Welcome to Kol HaLev, Cleveland's Reconstructionist Jewish Community! Kol HaLev means "Voice of the Heart" in Hebrew. Mindful of the vast and evolving landscape of "who is a Jew," our growing, diverse, multi-generational community embraces and celebrates all who seek a spirited, collaborative environment in which to explore Judaism through prayer, study, song, fellowship and social action, or tikkun olam (literally, "repairing the world.") Drawing on both traditional and innovative sources, Kol HaLev fosters an engaging Jewish experience that infuses delight in our heritage and supports meaningful communal and personal growth. Kol HaLev is affiliated with the Jewish Reconstructionist movement. Reconstructionism is based on the philosophy of Rabbi Mordecai Kaplan, who defined Judaism as the "evolving religious civilization of the Jewish People." To read more about Reconstructionism, please visit our "About Kol HaLev" pages. Kol HaLev holds regular Shabbat and holiday religious services and celebrations, life cycle events, community service activities and innovative educational programs for all ages. We meet at The Lillian and Betty Ratner School, 27575 Shaker Boulevard, in Pepper Pike. We look forward to welcoming you to our services and programs! | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 380 | Jan 12 2012 - 12:31pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Or Haneshamah - Ottawa's Reconstructionist Community | Ottawa | Ontario | Michael Robinson | 1987 | Are you interested in exploring Judaism in an inclusive, caring and spiritually-minded community? Whether you are discovering Judaism, returning to Judaism or continuing a lifelong journey in the tradition, Or Haneshamah (Light of the Soul) invites your participation. Formed in 1987, under the name of the Ottawa Reconstructionist Havurah, Or Haneshamah welcomes people with all levels of Jewish knowledge and beliefs, mixed marriages, multi-faith families and members of the gay and lesbian communities. In our governance, we encourage members to share responsibilities and activities, based on egalitarian, democratic and participatory values. In our worship, Or Haneshamah, as a member of the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation, believes that Judaism is the product of the collective experience of the Jewish people. We creatively explore our religious, spiritual, and cultural practices in order to revitalize and revalue our Judaism. Liberal in outlook, yet respecting tradition, Reconstructionism is the newest of the four branches of organized Canadian Judaism. We hope to see you at one of our bi-monthly Shabbat services on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of each month, September through June. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 381 | Jan 12 2012 - 12:36pm | Victoria Cangelosi | 74.92.126.138 | 1111 | 2222 | 3333 | 4444 | 5555 | 5555 | 5555 | 5555 | 5555 | ||||||||||||||||||
| 382 | Jan 12 2012 - 12:53pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Reconstructionist Synagogue of the North Shore | Plandome | NY | MT | fficers and Trustees President Barbara Schaffer Executive Vice President Ed Adler Vice Presidents Cheryl Chester-Fischer Arlene Silberzweig Tammy Smiley Recording Secretary Dan Rabinowitz Corresponding Secretary Dinah Kramer Treasurer Arthur Leibowitz | The Reconstructionist Synagogue of the North Shore was founded in the late 1950s by a group of families looking to form a committed and caring community based on the tenets of Judaism and social justice. The congregation has grown slowly but steadily through the years. We belong enthusiastically, with the understanding that the synagogue community thrives and is enriched by the participation of its membership. At the core of our synagogue is the challenge of living in two worlds, the modern age of today and the age-old traditions of Judaism. Through the numerous activities, committees and functions of our synagogue, members are able to find a way to participate and add their experience and talent to the community. Some of these activities include the Social Action, Education Committee, Mutual Support, Ritual Committee, Fundraising Committee, Choir, Special Events and more. Our membership is diverse in age, profession, interest, background and Jewish education. What we welcome most is curiosity and a willingness to become involved in the life of our community. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 383 | Jan 12 2012 - 1:23pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Society for the Advancement of Judaism | NY | NY | MT | The SAJ was founded in 1922 by Dr. Mordecai M. Kaplan with a single — and singular — purpose: to reconcile traditional Judaism and modern life. Kaplan, a noted theologian, served for six decades on the faculty of the Jewish Theological Seminary of America. A revolutionary leader and thinker, Kaplan evolved a viewpoint that ultimately became the basis for the Reconstructionist movement. Under Kaplan, the SAJ became the leading synagogue of that movement. Many date the establishment of Reconstructionism from the publication of Kaplan’s 1945 prayerbook — developed and first used at the SAJ. Kaplan reminded us that over time and in new places, the Jewish tradition has always changed — and that faced with the pressures and demands of modernity, of the need to come to terms with the world of science and reason, Judaism needs to continue to change in order to remain relevant, vibrant, and meaningful to a new generation of Jews. He felt strongly that such traditional concepts as the resurrection of the dead and the chosenness of the Jewish people were difficult to accept, or simply not meaningful for our times. Therefore, he famously proposed changes in traditional ritual and practice. He enabled us to “reconstruct” Judaism for our time and place — just as Jews had always done throughout our history, he argued. Kaplan's thought has been summarized by some with the well-known aphorism “Tradition has a vote, not a veto.” The SAJ is the living heart of Kaplan’s great idea, the place where the congregation works to reconcile the meaningful core of tradition with the realities of modern intellectual and spiritual life. The world’s first bat mitzvah — of Rabbi Kaplan’s daughter, Judith — was celebrated at the SAJ in 1922. Other innovations followed, some of which — including many of Kaplan's liturgical innovations — have had a lasting impact on both the SAJ and Jewish practice throughout America and the world. The spirit of open debate and discussion that informed the SAJ during Kaplan’s long tenure continues today. Under the leadership of Rabbi Michael Strassfeld, we engage in open Torah discussion (a participatory discussion rather than a sermon is the centerpiece of our Shabbat morning service), read and debate the meaning of texts, take new approaches to liturgy, and welcome a diversity of viewpoints that continually enrich our Jewish experience. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 384 | Jan 12 2012 - 1:27pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | West End Synagogue | New York | NY | MT | President Jerry Saltzman Vice Presidents Fran Hoffinger Evelyn Laufer Susan R. Schorr Treasurer Daniel Kohn Secretary Alan Gotthelf Edwin Baum* Joan Bregstein* | From its inception, West End Synagogue has been a celebration of diversity. Initially, its constituent parts were the Manhattan Reconstructionist Havurah, the Havurah Hadashah and a group who broke away en masse from a similar, but very different congregation. Seekers all, the MRH was composed of extremely knowledgeable old-time Reconstructionists, including two of the four daughters of Mordecai Kaplan, Reconstructionism’s founder. MRH, as a group accomplished Jewishly and otherwise, was delighted to be joined by the younger group of Reconstructionists, drawn to their youth just as the Hadashah was attracted to the MRH’s more mature scholarship and exceptional liturgical competence. The breakaways brought energy and know-how to the process of establishing a brand new congregation. Beginning in 1985, a little chapel in the back of what was then the Lindenbaum Center on West 89th Street saw the early days, and the first decade, of this fledgling congregation. As the congregation grew, and consequently searched for space and light, it pursued possible mergers with other congregations, but several times came away not with more square footage, but with a renewed and reinvigorated sense of our own Reconstructionist identity. WES had reached adolescence; we really knew who we wanted to be. And, like adolescents, still fearful - but daring - we struck out on our own. At a thrilling New York City auction, we succeeded in purchasing our very own home, most appropriate for this little cerebral group of “people of the book,” a building formerly housing a New York City Public Library. Now, in our third decade, while still seekers, we are firmly established as what we had originally espoused as an ideal. We have made real the word “synagogue,” derived from the Greek word for coming together, assembling, congregating. And we have enriched the original notion. We are still determinedly diverse, a group composed of those from Orthodox, Conservative and Reform backgrounds, those from the left and also the right, and those from other faiths, or from none at all. We are straight and we are gay and we are black and we are white. We are bound by shared joys and, of course, sorrows. We are bound by our yearnings to live a shared enhanced Jewish life, with a vibrancy that will bring blessings for us and all those who follow. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 385 | Jan 12 2012 - 1:43pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Shir Hadash Reconstructionist Community | St. Louis | MO | Michael Robinson | Shir Hadash Reconstructionist Community welcomes all those interested in nurturing their Jewish life and identity. We seek to enrich our lives through study of Torah, prayer, communal celebrations, and working for social justice. Shir Hadash is an inclusive and egalitarian community. We welcome all Jews regardless of current levels or past practices of observance. Gay and Lesbian Jews, Jews by choice, minority Jews, and non-Jewish partners are all invited to share in our community. Shir Hadash creates a sense of community and caring through the active engagement of its members in the way we conduct our services, approach social justice opportunities, and integrate music and the arts into our experience of Judaism. As a small, participatory community, we appreciate the involvement of all our members. New perspectives, intellectual curiosity, spiritual exploration, and creativity are encouraged and welcome. This is a hallmark of the Reconstructionist movement, which as a modern approach to Judaism seeks to integrate our Jewish identities with the world around us. MISSION STATEMENT Shir Hadash is a Reconstructionist community committed to empowering and engaging Jews to create a vibrant and participatory Jewish community. Through a progressive approach we encourage and challenge people to find meaning in Jewish life. VISION STATEMENT Shir Hadash is a caring and welcoming group guided by the value Judaism places on learning and doing (na’asech v’nishmah). Through study and prayer, we encounter a tradition that tells us to make a difference in the world by caring for the people around us and the world in which we live. We seek and create opportunities to empower and engage people to participate actively in Jewish life. CORE VALUES We are committed to the Jewish values of Torah: Jewish Learning We are dedicated to gaining wisdom from the Jewish experience throughout time and wherever Jews have lived. We approach the study of sacred texts with love, humility and intellectual honesty, seeking to create lifelong learners. Kehillah: Community We are a conscious community that strives for holiness by dignifying all people as created in the Divine image; acting according to principles of democracy, egalitarianism and menshlikheit, and responsibly caring for and utilizing our human, financial and natural resources. Tzedek: Justice We strive to pursue justice in the world through sacred service (avodah) and social, economic and environmental justice for all (tzedek). Ahavat Israel: Love of Israel We value both the peoplehood of Israel (Am Yisrael, the people of Israel) and our connection to the Land of Israel (Eretz Yisrael, the Land of Israel). We love the people Israel by sharing in the responsibility for the flourishing of our people, and we value the Land and State of Israel as a spiritual, intellectual and historical center of the Jewish people. Yahadut Mitkhadashet: Recontructionist Judaism We value the wisdom of our ancestors and recognize that in every generation we are obligated to wrestle with our traditions, to infuse meaning into Jewish practices and to add our voices to the chain of tradition. We embark upon this enterprise with humility, courage, creativity and joy. . | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 386 | Jan 12 2012 - 1:51pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | The Little Minyan | Columbus | OH | Michael Robinson | Guiding Principles Like many groups, The Little Minyan (that Could … yes, just like the Little Engine) came into being when a diverse and passionate group of people started talking about what we really valued about being a part of a Jewish community/congregation. Today, these thoughts live at the heart of our Little Minyan. In all that we do, we strive: ■To provide a spiritual home for individuals and families seeking active participation in Jewish community; ■To create meaningful experiences that connect us with the divine sparks in our daily lives and the life of our community through building a vibrant 21st century Jewish community through innovative and interactive approaches to prayer, learning, and social action; ■To foster our children’s involvement in Jewish life through intergenerational ritual, educational, and community activities that are both enjoyable and dynamic; ■To recognize that sacred time enriches our lives by sharing celebrations of Shabbat, Jewish holidays, and life cycle events in our homes and as a community; ■To engage in lifelong learning of Torah, commentaries, and Jewish history because they empower us to participate fully in the life of this Jewish community and offer a spiritual and intellectual foundation for responding to the challenges of our time; ■To make a difference in the world through tikkun olam (repairing the world), integrating personal growth with an active commitment to social justice and environmental responsibility; and ■To assume a collective responsibility to ensure that every person is valued and treated with respect by being inclusive and welcoming to people with diverse life experiences and backgrounds and using gender-neutral prayer language, egalitarian decision-making processes, and recognizing members’ participation without regard to their ability to contribute financially. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 387 | Jan 12 2012 - 4:31pm | Jennifer Glowacki | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation Beth Am of San Antonio | San Antonio | Texas | Jenn G :) | President: Terri Foose Vice President, Education: Betty Simmons Vice President, Ritual: Marion Bernstein Treasurer: Stan Drezek Secretary: Rona Aduna | Congregation Beth Am is a spiritual home and egalitarian Jewish community that welcomes individuals of all ages and backgrounds to grow, learn, and participate in the richness of Jewish life. We celebrate holy days and life-cycle events with a responsive blend of tradition, innovation, and mutual support. We value intellectual life and provide education for children and adults as a means to growth and to ensure Jewish continuity. We reach out to work for peace, understanding, and social justice. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 388 | Jan 12 2012 - 4:35pm | Jennifer Glowacki | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation Shalom Rav | Austin | Texas | Jenn G :) | About Us A Reconstructionist Community As Reconstructionist Jews, we seek the beauty and power of Jewish tradition without abandoning a commitment to intellectual integrity. Other liberal branches of Judaism try to change the way in which Jews are Jewish; the rituals and observances of being Jewish. Reconstructionism changes the why of being Jewish – the meaning! Congregation Shalom Rav is a Jewish congregation committed to serving the needs of its members by providing new pathways to Jewish education, worship, and community to children and adults alike. We are an intimate community that embraces difference and that is caring and supportive of each member as an individual. Who We Are, What We Do: Shalom Rav's weekly religious school, directed by Rabbi Monty Eliasov, offers integrated coursework in Hebrew and Jewish ritual and culture for children ages 5 and up. Our sequence of classes is designed to lead to a B'nai Mitzvah ceremony, though this is not arequirement for attendance. Our youth group meets monthly for social as well as religious and community activities. Shalom Rav's series of continuing education classes provides opportunities for study of Hebrew and ritual/holiday traditions from a perspective that honors the totality and diversity of Jewish belief and practice (including Ashkenazi, Chasidic, Kabbalistic, Sephardic, and many other traditions). Shalom Rav sponsors regular Shabbat services and family Holiday celebrations, providing varied opportunities for collective worship drawing from both the Renewal and Reconstructionist traditions. Our services and celebrations are greatly enhanced by the contributions of our Musical Directors, Barbara Taft and Abraham Davidson. They bring joy and life to High Holiday Services, the Friday night Community Shabbat Service, and many other celebrations and ceremonies. Services are led by our Educational Director, Rabbi Monty Eliasov, who was ordained by Rabbi Gershon Winkler and studied Chassidic prayer styles under the guidance of the founder of the Jewish Renewal movement, Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi. Rabbi Monty teaches extensively from the Kabbalah and has created a unique pathway to the Jewish tradition called "Twelve Tribe Judaism"; he is an active teacher and leader in the Austin spiritual community. Rabbi Monty offers our members guidance toward individual paths of spiritual exploration, including life cycle guidance: for example, baby namings, b'nai mitzvot, b'nai Torah (recommitment to Judaism), weddings, shiva, etc. Shalom Rav embraces the Reconstructionist view of Judaism as "the evolving religious civilization of the Jewish people". Through our affiliation with the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation (JRF), we share ideas with other Reconstructionist communities and have access to the resources of the JRF and its rabbinical college (such as their path breaking gender-inclusive prayerbooks and teaching materials). We also find inspiration in other Jewish movements and organizations and draw freely on their resources and ideas, integrating their teachings into our holistic reconstruction of Jewish life. In particular, we openly align ourselves with the creativity of the Jewish Renewal movement and with the "Flexidoxy" approach that is being developed by Rabbi Winkler. Shalom Rav welcomes members without regard to race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, or age. Some of our members have come to us from other incarnations of Judaism, while others never had any Jewish upbringing at all. We openly invite those who have traversed many other paths to come to us and view Judaism in the new yet ancient light of holistic tradition. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 389 | Jan 12 2012 - 4:40pm | Jennifer Glowacki | 74.92.126.138 | Keddem Congregation | Palo Alto | California | Jenn G :) | Keddem Congregation is a community-led, Reconstructionist Jewish congregation dedicated to discovering, developing and celebrating godliness in ourselves and each other. We practice an evolving Judaism that infuses tradition with new meaning, and is responsive to contemporary life. Commentary Our approach in exploring this vision is through the path of Reconstructionist Judaism. Mordecai Kaplan, the founder of Reconstructionist Judaism, spoke of God as the process that makes for the fulfillment of our human potential. "Godliness" is therefore our highest human potential. Kaplan also describes Judaism as an " evolving" civilization. In that context, we seek to practice a Judaism that is dynamic rather than static. And, as Reconstructionism rejects the notion of the Jews as " the chosen people," we at Keddem recognize that all are created b'Tzelem Elohim (in the image of God). We challenge ourselves to perceive and nurture that image in friends, in strangers, in those with whom we disagree, in everyone regardless of race, class, gender, or sexual orientation. This awareness is the basis of our relationships and activities. Under this vision, we intend to provide experiences that touch the heart and soul as well as the mind, and varied ways for people to connect with each other to share important experiences. We join together as we wrestle with the meaning of God in our lives, and seek a balance between mind and heart. The mission of Keddem Congregation is to: Promote and practice Reconstructionist Judaism, Be a warm, welcoming, supportive community where people find intellectual challenge, emotional involvement, and spiritual engagement with others as they wrestle with the meaning of God in their lives, Empower our members to grow Jewishly, and become active and engaged in doing Judaism, Discover and build our spirituality through many paths—song, dance, and meditation, as well as prayer and study, Foster multigenerational learning through study of both traditional and contemporary texts and issues, Care for our world through committing to tzedek (justice) and tikkun olam (repair of the world), Build and deepen our connections with each other by celebrating the joys of our lives together and by supporting each other in times of loss or trouble. Keddem Congregation is: Inclusive: Everyone who supports our vision and mission is welcome at Keddem Congregation, regardless of background, family, lifestyle, or Jewish education. The congregation is committed to democratic process in making major decisions. We respect each others' beliefs, practices and perspectives and realize there is wide diversity in the ways to belong. Egalitarian: At Keddem Congregation, all are equal and equally welcome to participate in what we do, regardless of background, race, gender, gender preference, income, Jewish education, lifestyle or birth religion. We welcome interfaith couples to join and to participate in Keddem's community life. Participatory: Involvement builds community. All Keddem Congregation members are encouraged to participate in activities ranging from services and tikkun olam (social action) activities, to governance and social events. Inquiring: An attitude of inquiry frames learning at Keddem Congregation. Keddem promotes Torah-based continuous learning through studying and questioning the evolution of the Jewish community, writings, and practice. Members benefit from each other's knowledge and experiences, value diverse opinions and differing perspectives. Innovative: Just as Mordecai Kaplan recognized that Judaism is an evolving religious civilization, so does Keddem Congregation seek to be continuously evolving. It is through innovation that we carve a path of Judaism, rooted in tradition and peoplehood, yet relevant for the present. We welcome and encourage new, creative ideas. Compassionate: Just as we seek to recognize the godliness in every other human being, so we at Keddem Congregation respond to each other with the kindness, compassion, respect, patience, and humility that this recognition deserves. | KeddemCongregation.PaloAlto.CA.Logo.gif | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 390 | Jan 12 2012 - 4:47pm | Jennifer Glowacki | 74.92.126.138 | Kol HaLev "Voice of the Heart" | Houston | Texas | Jenn G :) | 1991 | Kol HaLev Chair: Sara Norris Treasurer: Jeff Meyer Secretary: Evelyn Brass | Kol HaLev is an open and growing Jewish spiritual community. We work together to create an integrated and meaningful Jewish life. Our community does this through participatory learning and prayer and acts of caring for each other and for the world. In all that we do, we foster a dialog between our traditions and ourselves. A Brief History of Kol HaLev, A Reconstructionist Congregation Our Beginnings Rabbi Rebecca Alpert was engaged to lead our first High Holy Days services. This drew an unexpectedly large group of unaffiliated Jews from the Houston area. Initially, we set up individual havurot, grouped together under the name Houston Reconstructionist Havurah. After three years of High Holy Days with Rabbi Alpert, and functioning as separate small havurot, we moved to establish the community as one unified Havurah. Our Past Spiritual Leaders Starting in 1994, we engaged a succession of gifted Reconstructionist Rabbinical College (RRC) student rabbis, who came for 5-9 visits per year and stayed for a year to two years.. This group included; Herb Levine, Rabbi Joyce Galinsky, Rabbi Myriam Klotz, and Rabbi Michel Zimmerman, serving the community in that order. Rabbi Myriam Klotz worked with us longer than any of the other student Rabbis. She served our community, as our part-time teacher and spiritual leader for the years 1997 through 2000. During this period, we saw a strengthening of the HRH membership and community life. Reconstructing the Havurah In 2002, we decided that we needed to "reconstruct" our community. For this purpose, two major task forces were created: the first was an Organizational Task Force to examine how different structures would best serve the community. The Organizational Task Force proposed a new set of Bylaws and organizational structure, which the membership adopted at the end of January 2003. The other task force, which started as the Rabbinic Task Force, identified the type of spiritual leader needed by the community. It then became the Rabbinic Search Task Force and decided to opt for local leadership. From 2003 - 2005, Cantor Diane Dorf, a local leader living with her family in Houston, served as our Spiritual Leader. She was followed by a return to the employment of rabbinic students from the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College. Rabbi Me'irah Iliinsky, a student in her last year of the RRC, served as 2005-2006 spiritual leader. Today with Rabbi Alexis Pearce, we have a part-time spiritual leader plus lay lead services, which keeps us an intimate congregation. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 391 | Jan 12 2012 - 4:59pm | Jennifer Glowacki | 74.92.126.138 | Malibu Jewish Center & Synagogue | Malibu | California | Jenn G :) | George Greenberg, President Michael Berger Barry Farbenbloom Ruth Flinkman-Marandy Alex Fragan Geoffrey Gelb Fred Kalmar Elinor Leipzig Joshua Malina Melissa Malina Reeva Hunter Mandelbaum Susan Monus Jay Scott Leah Seider Ron Semler Steven Weinberg Ellen Wolf Karen York | Welcome to the Malibu Jewish Center, a Synagogue- and so much more This is the home of Judaism that you have always dreamed of – casual yet complete, spiritual yet grounded in tradition, and inclusive of all families and lifestyles. Whether it’s Shabbat on the Beach during the summer, where dolphins magically appear as we light candles and bless wine…or our weekly Torah study sessions, our innovative religious school, or our joyful holiday celebrations, this is the place to explore what it means to be a Jew in the twenty-first century. Shabbat with a salsa beat? A religious school with organic gardening in our own nature preserve? Transformative Adult Education that includes Jewish spirituality and Kabbalah, Talmud, Torah and a study of Rabbinic sages? A love of Judaism that is infectious? You will find it all at the Malibu Jewish Center – a Synagogue- and so much more. | MalibuJewishCenter.Malibu.CA.Logo.png | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 392 | Jan 12 2012 - 5:13pm | Jennifer Glowacki | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation Ner Shalom | Cotati | California | Jenn G :) | 1982 | President: Shari Brenner Vice President: Lorenzo Valensi Secretary: Berrine DeCarmo Treasurer: Barbara Lesch McCaffry Members At Large: Dori Giller Art Magnus Rami Rogers | Our synagogue began in May of 1982, when a small group of people came together to create the Sonoma County Synagogue Center, a congregation affiliated with the Reconstructionist movement. For many years we were without a permanent home, and we held our services and our school sessions in different locations. In the spring of 1994, we acquired our building and shortly thereafter changed our name to Congregation Ner Shalom. Today, our congregation continues to thrive, nurtured and sustained by the energy and commitment of our congregants and staff. We are a spiritual community, devoted to Judaism as a 'way of life' and not simply as a 'lifestyle'. Through prayer, education and caring for each other, we are living our Judaism. We invite you to join with us and look forward to welcoming you into the Ner Shalom community. | NerShalom.Cotati.CA.Logo.gif | |||||||||||||||||||
| 393 | Jan 12 2012 - 5:20pm | Jennifer Glowacki | 74.92.126.138 | Or Shalom Jewish Community | San Francisco | California | Jenn G :) | Stuart Schillinger, President Corey Weinstein Owen Brown Nina Grove Alison Brown Ed Reiner Judy Olasov Debbie Benrubi Tala Hartough Ann Zorn Jurate Raulinaitis Jon Barash | Or Shalom Jewish Community is an active community of progressive Jews and non-Jews, diverse yet united in the effort to improve ourselves and mend our world through: limud (Jewish learning), gemilut chasadim (acts of loving kindness), avodah (Jewish spiritual practice), and tikkun olam (social action). We share a commitment to deep mutual acceptance, the spirit of questioning, and a dynamic balance between tradition and innovation that makes our Judaism alive and relevant. To achieve this mission, we have structured our community around four centers of synagogue life: The House of Learning (Beit Midrash) Gathering Place (Beit Knesset) The House of Prayer (Beit Tefilah) Healing the World (Tikkun Olam) Or Shalom Community Core Values Inclusivity Or Shalom Jewish Community welcomes people of all races, sexual orientations, economic circumstances and religious backgrounds. Accessibility Our worship services and rituals are easy to understand with a mix of English and Hebrew, and their purpose is always explained and made meaningful. Ritual Flexibility In crafting rituals, we respect individual family circumstances in order to include all family members and help them to make meaningful spiritual connections. Acts of Loving Kindness Or Shalom provides support to members in times of trouble, and promotes members’ involvement outside the community in the pursuit of Tikkun Olam through social action and social justice. Lay Leadership Or Shalom’s rabbinic leadership and lay leaders collaborate to share and develop our values, rituals, and community culture. Critical Reverence The Or Shalom community has a tradition of actively questioning traditional interpretations of Torah and other teachings handed down by our ancestors. When questioning our traditions we do so with great reverence for and understanding of the uniqueness, depth, and value of our inherited writings and history as a Jewish people. Valuing Individual Differences and Opinions We value everyone’s unique opinions, lifestyles, and points of view with the ideal of community that asks “If I am only for myself, what good am I?" Voluntary Participation Children are accepted at our Religious School only if they want and choose to attend. We are all at Or Shalom because we want to be here. | OrShalomJC.CA.Logo.gif | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 394 | Jan 12 2012 - 5:29pm | Jennifer Glowacki | 74.92.126.138 | P'nai Tikvah, Valley Outreach Synagogue | Las Vegas | Nevada | Jenn G :) | Progressive Family Oriented Synagogue serving all who wish to live joyfully Jewish, throughout the greater Las Vegas community. RENEW - REFRESH - RESOUL Open to all who wish to live a joyful, Jewish life. Sometimes lovingly referred to as the "Cheers" congregation---because it's a place where, indeed, everyone knows your name, and values your participation, P'nai Tikvah is small and unique. The only congregation in Southern Nevada with a woman rabbi; the only congregation affiliated with the progressive Reconstructionist movement and infused with the joy of Renewal Judaism, P'nai Tikvah is fully participatory, with our own home-made Onegai Shabbat (including the Rabbi's delicious challot), our services and programs are filled with joy, music, and nourishment for the soul. When you're "shul shopping," do visit the best kept secret in Las Vegas...warm and welcoming P'nai Tikvah. We look forward to welcoming you home! | PnaiTikva.NV.Logo.jpg | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 395 | Jan 12 2012 - 5:40pm | Jennifer Glowacki | 74.92.126.138 | Temple Beth Sholom | Salem | Oregon | Jenn G :) | 1937 | Our History The History of Salem's Jewish Congregation Beth Sholom (TBS) is a Reconstructionist Jewish congregation in Oregon's capital city of Salem. TBS was established by a dedicated core of early residents in the Pacific Northwest. Salem's Jewish community began organizing in the 1930's, holding it's first meetings in private homes. Gatherings soon moved to an old building at the corner of Chemeketa and Commercial streets in the heart of old Downtown Salem. Services were held three flights up, around an old wood stove, with about 20 to 30 people participating. The Salem Jewish Congregation incorporated in 1937. Salem's first building committee was established on October 18, 1934. Its activities were interrupted by World War II but started up again in 1947 with a building fund drive that raised $18,000 in pledges from 36 donors. The first Temple was located just north of Downtown Salem on Broadway Street. The first meeting in the congregation's new synagogue, Temple Beth Sholom, was held on January 20, 1948. Initial membership was 28 families. The first Sunday School meeting took place on October 8, 1948. From those initial 28 families, TBS membership has now grown to 140 membership units (families, seniors, couples, and singles) The Growth of TBS Temple Beth Sholom remains Salem's only synagogue. For 40 years, religious support was provided by visiting rabbis, cantors and professional lay people. Salem retained its first full time rabbi in 1987. At a time when the future of Judaism is seen as being challenged, this Pacific Northwest Jewish community continues to expand. Adult members are studying and stretching, youth are engaged and enthusiastic. After five decades at its Broadway location, Temple Beth Sholom was faced with a beautiful dilemma - it had grown too large for its home. Beginning in 2000, the TBS board sought solutions to the cramped quarters on Broadway. The board explored appropriate and practical solutions to the space and programmatic needs of the community. The TBS community initially decided to renovate and expand the current facilities. The capital campaign raised more than $1.6 million, mostly from the congregation community - an astounding accomplishment given the congregation had never raised more than $30,000 in any similar effort. As preparations were made for the renovation, another option appeared. Our Savior's Lutheran church in South Salem had also outgrown its facilities and was moving. TBS decided to purchase the Cunningham property and forego the renovation of the Broadway Temple. On September 17, 2006, the members of TBS, with the overwhelming support and participation of the Salem community, marched the Torahs 5.2 miles to their new home. Connected to the Past, Moving to the Future While we were somewhat melancholy about leaving a space so full of wonderful memories, traditions and history, we are equally excited about our contribution to the dreams of our founders in establishing a vibrant, growing and self-sustaining Jewish community in Salem, Oregon. Our New Home New Home for TBS Our congregation is thrilled to finally be in our beautiful new home after so many years of hard work and determination. We have only just begun to understand the myriad of opportunities that this new space will provide for us as a community. Already, the feeling in the synagogue is different than anything our congregation has ever enjoyed. We are alive with activity, excitement, and community involvement. There is a buzz in the air that is attracting new members and bringing back into the fold those who have been away. Now the real journey begins - making the most of this new facility in its potential to serve our members now and into the future. You can help us in this endeavor with your donation to our building fund! We invite you to make your donation online, and help us in maintaining our new home and building a vibrant and secure future for generations to come. | TempleBethSholom.OR.Logo.png | TempleBethSholom.OR.Broadway.jpg | Temple Beth Sholom Synagogue on Broadway | TempleBethSholom.org.NewHome.jpg | Our New Home | ||||||||||||||||
| 396 | Jan 12 2012 - 5:41pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Havurat Shalom | Andover | Massachussets | Eve Maslin | 1968 | Karen Landy, Rabbi; Sandy Nazzaro, Membership Chair; Dan Schneider, Treasurer; | Havurat Shalom is a community of families committed to providing a Jewish identity and education for its members, in a manner that is relevant to our contemporary lives. What do we offer? We provide an open and inclusive community for adults with and without children. We welcome families of mixed heritage. Families who have been, or are members of any other Jewish congregation, or have not recently or, in fact, ever, practiced Judaism in a structured way are also welcome. Havurat Shalom is able to offer a warm, extended family to single parents, as well as single adults. Since the group functions on a cooperative basis, the active participation of every member is necessary. A wide variety of activities is offered, reflecting the varied interests of the members of the group. These include monthly shabbat services, discussions (havurah), tzedakeh activities, social get-togethers, excursions to cultural events and children's workshops. A Cooperative – Members are key Every member is asked to contribute their individual perspectives and background, creating a constantly evolving expression of Judaism. This rich diversity is manifested in the composition of holiday services and celebrations, some of which are written by members. Traditional Jewish practices are observed with modern interpretations and forms of expression. Music Music is an important part of our Havurat Shalom traditions. Elliott Jacobowitz, pianist, leads an ensemble including flautist Esther Taylor and acoustic guitarist, Jonathan Weiss. They offer accompaniment at Shabbat and High Holy Day services. Spiritual Style Our Shabbat and holiday observances are led by Rabbi Karen Landy, a Reconstructionist Rabbi. On the High Holy Days Rabbi Karen is joined by our long time Chazzan, David Hastings, in leading our services. This year our congregation adopted the siddur, Mishkan Tefilah, a wonderful prayerbook including Hebrew, English and transliteration of all prayers, in addition to thoughtful and inspirational additional readings. For the High Holy Days, we use a text that has been developed by the congregation over thirty years, including some original contributions by our religious school children, some of whom now have children of their own. Religious School The Religious School of Havurat Shalom provides a curriculum which includes Hebrew language training, cultural and ethnic education and holiday celebrations. Classes are taught by experienced teachers with small groups of 8-12 children per class. Grades 3-6 meet once a week for 90 minutes. Our early-entry program, Grades K-2, “Jumping Into Judaism”, meets once per month. For information on the Religious school program, please follow this link. Click here and our lead teacher, Morah Sue Stein will contact you. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 397 | Jan 12 2012 - 6:17pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Kehillath Shalom | Cold Spring Harbor | New York | Eve Maslin | 1992 | Julie Barkan, Secretary; Eugene Berman, Education Chair; Ruth A. Brandwein, Social Action; Judith Davis, Israel Committee; Arlene Fell, Newsletter Editor; Ralph Fenderson, Secretary; Barbara Heller, Vice-President; Robert Kersch, Treasurer; Ileen Koenig, President; Jane Kunstler, Vice-President; Susan McGuire, Secretary; Dalia M. Rosenthal, Education Director; | Kehillath Shalom is a young, evolving congregation, part of a dynamic movement that defines Judaism as more than a religion. For us it is a civilization encompassing history, literature, art and language. We are respectful of traditional Jewish practice, but also open to new interpretations and forms of religious expression. We are a congregation that is representative of the community in which we live - young families, mature couples, singles, interfaith couples, gays, individuals with diverse backgrounds of religious observance and Jewish knowledge, people from many walks of life. Kehillath Shalom prides itself on integrating this mix of people into an active, warm, spiritually invigorating Reconstructionist community. Kehillath Shalom offers the warm intimacy of a small congregation with the diversity of educational, social, and ritual activities associated with a much larger synagogue. Kehillath Shalom encourages the full participation of interfaith couples in Jewish life through social and educational programs. Here are some of the ways we invite members to participate: Worship Our ritual committee works closely with the rabbi to develop programs that engage the spirit. We offer: Friday Night Service and Forum twice a month Shabbat dinners and services for families with young and school-age children High Holy Day services open to members and non-members Religious School Our religious school reflects the Reconstructionist concept that the Jewish people's experience of God, Torah, and peoplehood has changed and grown throughout history. Adult Education Our adult education takes many forms, from lively Torah discussion each Shabbat morning, to the more formal classes and seminars taught by Rabbi Schwartz or by fellow congregants. Recent offerings have ranged from "Foundations of Reconstructionism," to "Tales of the Masters: Zen and Hasidic Sages." Support Net Our sages taught that all Israel has a responsibility one to the other. Through our Support Net we help each other with whatever skills or expertise we can offer. Some counsel others who, like themselves, must face the challenge of cancer; others babysit when someone is ailing with a temporary injury. In addition, we provide food, companionship or a minyan as needed. Social Action The Jewish tradition of progressive change through involvement is fostered by our vigorous Social Action Committee. | KehillathShalom.NY.Exterior.jpg | Our House | ||||||||||||||||||
| 398 | Jan 12 2012 - 10:39pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Leyv Ha-Ir | Philadelphia | Pennsylvania | Eve Maslin | 1990 | Vice Presidents: Susan Thompson, Bobbi Cohen Secretary: Iris Newman Treasurer: Patricia Saddier Council at Large: Jay Butler Council at Large: Joan Goldberg Council at Large: Marsha Hyman Council at Large: Laura Jacobs Co-Chairs, Education: Myrna Schlanger, Joan Goldberg Chair, Finance: Michael Meketon Chair, Ritual: Michael Meketon Chair, Tikkun Olam: John Mason Publicity & Newsletter Editor: Beverly Hayden Past President: Michael Meketon | Leyv Ha-Ir, Hebrew for Heart of the City, is a small, growing Reconstructionist Congregation located at the Ethical Society at 1906 S. Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia. Founded in May, 1990, Congregation Leyv Ha-Ir is led by Rabbi Julie Greenberg. Our members come from all branches of Judaism, including Reform, Conservative and Orthodox, and include recent converts to Judaism. Our members include students, professionals, rabbis, singles, couples, and those in traditional and non-traditional families. We welcome you to explore your Jewish identity and the Jewish holidays with us. Our calendar is packed with an abundance of activities, including Shabbat and holiday celebrations, opportunities for learning, and connecting with community. Leyv Ha-Ir (Heart of the City) is an egalitarian Reconstructionist Congregation located in Center City, Philadelphia. Our members foster a caring community by nurturing each other's spiritual, intellectual, emotional and physical lives. We encourage and accept each other's varied paths and expressions of Judaism. We value traditional and contemporary liturgy in a participatory setting to explore an evolving sense of the Divine. We are inclusive and accepting of difference. We connect with our ancestors and Jews around the world through observance of Jewish life cycle events and holidays. We enhance our Jewish identities by study, social action, and participation in the larger Jewish Community. | LeyvHa-Ir.PA.Ark.jpg | Congregation Ark | ||||||||||||||||||
| 399 | Jan 12 2012 - 11:23pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Temple Beth Or | Miami | Florida | Eve Maslin | 1980 | Rabbi Mark Kram OFFICERS President: Shep Faber VP Administration: Jeff Tucker VP Communications: Alan Eisenberg VP Finance: Irene Elliott VP Programming: Michael Henry Corresponding Secretary: Karen Steinberg-Lewis Recording Secretary: Marti Gammon Past President: Michael Newman MEMBERS AT LARGE Vicki Brail: Jeff Kaminsky; Annette Katz; Cheryl Krisal; Martin Levine; Bob Olian; Lynn Olian; Marcy Prince; Rhoni Tannenbaum; Rowena Wallach; Committee Contacts AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY LIST By-laws President Michael Newman Check Writing Finance Irene Elliott Choir Programming Michael Henry Dues Finance Irene Elliott Garden & Grounds Administration Marcy Prince House & Structures Administration Jeff Tucker; Mike Leslie; Joe Witz; Library Administration Membership Programming April Miller Men's Reading Group George Emerson Minutes & Records Recording Sect'y Marti Gammon Ritual Support Administration Celia Belsky News Items (Gnus) Communications Greta Larrison-Malkin Notices Communications Karen Steinberg-Lewis Red Tent Bette Spector Ritual Programming Michael Henry Social Action Programming Bette Spector Social Events Administration April Miller This Week At Beth Or Communications Alan Eisenberg Torah School Education Steve Gair Webmeister Communications Alan Eisenberg | We are a friendly, caring community that is committed to creating a Jewish spiritual home where people of all backgrounds can feel comfortable. Our goal is to provide an open and intellectually challenging learning environment where individuals of all ages and backgrounds can wrestle with the issues that confront them daily. We believe that learning and studying can translate into a meaningful commitment toward Tikkun Olam: making the world a better place. Founded in 1980 by Rabbi Rami Shapiro, Beth Or is an open-minded community that values diversity. We are small by design and desire, and are committed to maintaining our ability to know each other in an environment of being haimish and informal. Our prayer, learning, and celebrations are marked with a blend of tradition and innovation. We are not afraid to be creative and take pains to root that creativity in the texts and textures of our tradition. Our services are egalitarian, participatory and friendly. They invite you to become involved by teaching the words and concepts that make Jewish prayer powerful. Marked by dialogue, our services invite your questions and discuss your concerns. Beth Or is a house of meeting, prayer, study, comfort and joy. But most importantly, it is a Home. We dedicate ourselves to prayer, learning, celebration and acts of Tikkun Olam. | TempleBethOr.Miami.Fl.Logo.jpg | Temple Beth Or Logo | ||||||||||||||||||
| 400 | Jan 13 2012 - 12:32am | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Temple Hillel B'nai Torah | West Roxbury | Massachussets | Eve Maslin | 1949 | Steering; Shelley Stevens President; Jeff Simmons Treasurer/Finance; Jocelyn Gordon Secretary; Craig Schneider VP Inreach; Marcie Laden VP Operations; Nechama Katz VP Outreach; Jean Weinberg VP Leadership; Dana Rubin At Large Directors Kalish, Susan, term ending 2012 Stanzler-Katz, Jill, term ending 2012 Karp, Beth, term ending 2012 Schleifer, Aaron, term ending 2012 Sandberg, Valerie, term ending 2013 Taylor, Janet, term ending 2013 Elstein, Elana, term ending 2013 Levy, Ed, term ending 2014 Massey, Michael, term ending 2014 Levine, Gail, term ending 2014 | About Our Temple Temple Hillel B'nai Torah is a Reconstructionist congregation that is welcoming, egalitarian, multicultural, and inclusive. We are devoted to worship, study, social justice and community. Hillel B�nai Torah is a haimish community that is rooted in Jewish tradition and responsive to the world we live in. We actively engage our members in the creative process of bringing new perspectives to tradition and making tradition meaningful to contemporary lives History of the Temple Temple Hillel B'nai Torah's beginnings date back to 1949, with the Parkway Jewish Women's Club. A year later, the Parkway Jewish Men's Association came into being. By 1955, the group formed Temple Beth Torah, a conservative synagogue with its own Hebrew School. With 300 Jewish families in West Roxbury, the congregation moved into the original building on Corey Street, engaged Rabbi Oscar Bookspan and Cantor Simon Erdman as spiritual leaders, added a new sanctuary, and flourished into the 1960s. In 1970, Temple Beth Hillel left its historic building in Mattapan and merged with Beth Torah to become Temple Hillel B'nai Torah. Many of the historic plaques, the Torah scrolls, and Torah reading table in the sanctuary are mementos of the Mattapan congregation. While the temple reached its peak in the late 1970s, demographic trends in the City of Boston led to a decline in membership in the 1980s. Rabbi Bookspan retired in 1986 and was followed by Rabbi Eliot Somers who served the congregation for several years. During that time, a small group of young families created the West Roxbury Chavurah, which was invited to meet at HBT. In 1995, members of the Chavurah, who were up-and-coming temple leaders, joined together with the senior members of the temple to search for a rabbi to bring together the diverse membership of the congregation. The same year that Rabbi Barbara Penzner took on the mantle of leadership, the Chaverim School opened its doors as the first Hebrew School at HBT in ten years. Since that time, individuals and families from across Greater Boston have found a home at HBT. This history is based on the extensive work of Sandra Serkess, who grew up in the temple. | TempleHillelBnaiTorah.MA.Logo.jpg | Temple Hillel B'nai Torah Logo | TempleHillelBnaiTorah.Avodah.jpg | TempleHillelBnaiTorah.MA.Torah.jpg | TempleHillelBnaiTorah.MA.Havurah.jpg | |||||||||||||||
| 401 | Jan 13 2012 - 7:35am | Anonymous | 190.88.165.20 | United Congregation Mikvé Israel-Emanuel | Curaçao | Dutch Caribbean | Ron Gomes-Casseres | 1651 | President: Rene Levy Maduro Vice President: Greggory Moreno Secretary: Daniela Cohen Henriquez Treasurer: Robert Moron Assessor: Anthony da Costa Gomez Director: Brenda Campbell Director: Christine Cheis Spiritual Leader: Hazzan Avery Tracht Chairman, Board of Elders: Ron Gomes-Casseres | The first Jew to arrive in Curaçao was Samuel Cohen. He served as an interpreter on board the Dutch fleet under the command of Johan van Walbeeck, which conquered the island from the Spanish in 1634. A few years later, in 1651, Joao d’Ylan brought 10 to 12 Jewish families from the Amsterdam Portuguese community to Curaçao and established Congregation Mikvé Israel in that same year. A second group of settlers followed in 1659 under the patronage of Isaac da Costa and brought with them on loan from the Amsterdam Synagogue one of our first Torahs, probably from the 14th century, still used today in the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue. These settlers were originally from Spain and Portugal; they had fled the Inquisition and found refuge first in Holland, then in Northern Brazil and later on in Curaçao. The first settlers had consecrated a house of worship on Plantation De Hoop, as well as in 1659 the historic Beth Haim cemetery. But when the Jews moved to town they consecrated a first synagogue in town (1674). This original synagogue was replaced three times with larger buildings and in 1703 they built their first synagogue, on the same site where our current synagogue stands today. When this house of worship became too small to house the flourishing Jewish community of Curaçao, they tore that one down to construct the current building. The architecture of the new synagogue, which was inaugurated in 1732, was modeled after the ‘Esnoga’, the Portuguese Sephardic synagogue in Amsterdam. Still in use today, our congregation’s ‘Snoa’ is the oldest synagogue in continuous use in the Americas and stands proudly in the middle of Punda, in Willemstad, Curaçao’s capital city, a UNESCO World Heritage City. Its remarkable architecture, solid mahogany interior, 18th century copper chandeliers, and sand covered floor have made it one of the most cherished monuments in Curaçao. At the turn of the nineteenth century, the Jewish Community in Curaçao was the largest, most important and wealthiest Jewish congregation in the New World. The congregation gave financial contributions to build synagogues and consecrate cemeteries in new communities in the hemisphere such as in Newport (Rhode Island), New York (New York), Kingston (Jamaica), St. Eustatius (Netherlands Antilles), Philadelphia (Pennsylvania), Charleston (South Carolina), Rio Hacha (Colombia), St. Thomas (Virgin Islands), and Panama. The Jews who arrived in Curaçao centuries ago were of Sephardic descent and followed orthodox rituals and customs. Years of living in fear of persecution and migrating in search of a new home undoubtedly had its effects on the customs and rituals which the newly formed Congregation Mikvé Israel developed in the early days. In the middle of the nineteenth century these rituals were being questioned by a portion of the community. They wanted to introduce music and more liberal rituals. Finally, fueled also by competitive-commercial interests, a third of the congregation started its own congregation in 1864 which followed the principles of the Reform movement in the United Kingdom and Germany. They built the magnificent Tempel Emanuel, and consecrated their own cemetery at Berg Altena. Exactly 100 years later the congregations united and formed United Congregation Mikvé Israel-Emanuel. The United Congregation chose to follow the rituals of, and affiliate with, the Reconstructionist Federation of America in 1966. It allowed preserving some of the historical and traditional customs of both Congregations. In 2000, Congregation Mikvé Israel-Emanuel adapted its rituals once again, becoming fully egalitarian in religious services. Often referred to as the ‘Mother Congregation of the Americas’, United Congregation Mikvé Israel-Emanuel in Curaçao is the oldest active Jewish congregation in the Americas. Unlike many other early Jewish communities in the region, the congregation in Curaçao has remained active throughout the centuries. The history of our people is testimony to our deep roots in Curaçao and continued commitment to our Jewish heritage. | CongregationMikveIsraelEmanuel.Curacao.PortEntrance | Curaçao's port entrance with typical Dutch architecture from the 18th to the 20th century | CongregationMikveIsraelEmanuel.Curacao.Exterior.1 | An artistic view of Curaçao's 1732 synagogue, lovingly referred at as "our Snoa | CongregationMikveIsraelEmanuel.Curacao. | CongregationMikveIsraelEmanuel.Curacao. | CongregationMikveIsraelEmanuel.Curacao. | CongregationMikveIsraelEmanuel.Curacao. | CongregationMikveIsraelEmanuel.Curacao. | |||||||||||
| 402 | Jan 13 2012 - 7:57am | Anonymous | 190.88.165.20 | United Congregation Mikvé Israel-Emanuel | Curaçao | Dutch Caribbean | Ron Gomes-Casseres | 1651 | President: Rene Levy Maduro Vice President: Greggory Moreno Secretary: Daniela Cohen Henriquez Treasurer: Robert Moron Assessor: Anthony da Costa Gomez Director: Brenda Campbell Director: Christine Cheis Spiritual Leader: Hazzan Avery Tracht Chairman, Board of Elders: Ron Gomes-Casseres | The first Jew to arrive in Curaçao was Samuel Cohen. He served as an interpreter on board the Dutch fleet under the command of Johan van Walbeeck, which conquered the island from the Spanish in 1634. A few years later, in 1651, Joao d’Ylan brought 10 to 12 Jewish families from the Amsterdam Portuguese community to Curaçao and established Congregation Mikvé Israel in that same year. A second group of settlers followed in 1659 under the patronage of Isaac da Costa and brought with them on loan from the Amsterdam Synagogue one of our first Torahs, probably from the 14th century, still used today in the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue. These settlers were originally from Spain and Portugal; they had fled the Inquisition and found refuge first in Holland, then in Northern Brazil and later on in Curaçao. The first settlers had consecrated a house of worship on Plantation De Hoop, as well as in 1659 the historic Beth Haim cemetery. But when the Jews moved to town they consecrated a first synagogue in town (1674). This original synagogue was replaced three times with larger buildings and in 1703 they built their first synagogue, on the same site where our current synagogue stands today. When this house of worship became too small to house the flourishing Jewish community of Curaçao, they tore that one down to construct the current building. The architecture of the new synagogue, which was inaugurated in 1732, was modeled after the ‘Esnoga’, the Portuguese Sephardic synagogue in Amsterdam. Still in use today, our congregation’s ‘Snoa’ is the oldest synagogue in continuous use in the Americas and stands proudly in the middle of Punda, in Willemstad, Curaçao’s capital city, a UNESCO World Heritage City. Its remarkable architecture, solid mahogany interior, 18th century copper chandeliers, and sand covered floor have made it one of the most cherished monuments in Curaçao. At the turn of the nineteenth century, the Jewish Community in Curaçao was the largest, most important and wealthiest Jewish congregation in the New World. The congregation gave financial contributions to build synagogues and consecrate cemeteries in new communities in the hemisphere such as in Newport (Rhode Island), New York (New York), Kingston (Jamaica), St. Eustatius (Netherlands Antilles), Philadelphia (Pennsylvania), Charleston (South Carolina), Rio Hacha (Colombia), St. Thomas (Virgin Islands), and Panama. The Jews who arrived in Curaçao centuries ago were of Sephardic descent and followed orthodox rituals and customs. Years of living in fear of persecution and migrating in search of a new home undoubtedly had its effects on the customs and rituals which the newly formed Congregation Mikvé Israel developed in the early days. In the middle of the nineteenth century these rituals were being questioned by a portion of the community. They wanted to introduce music and more liberal rituals. Finally, fueled also by competitive-commercial interests, a third of the congregation started its own congregation in 1864 which followed the principles of the Reform movement in the United Kingdom and Germany. They built the magnificent Tempel Emanuel, and consecrated their own cemetery at Berg Altena. Exactly 100 years later the congregations united and formed United Congregation Mikvé Israel-Emanuel. The United Congregation chose to follow the rituals of, and affiliate with, the Reconstructionist Federation of America in 1966. It allowed preserving some of the historical and traditional customs of both Congregations. In 2000, Congregation Mikvé Israel-Emanuel adapted its rituals once again, becoming fully egalitarian in religious services. Often referred to as the ‘Mother Congregation of the Americas’, United Congregation Mikvé Israel-Emanuel in Curaçao is the oldest active Jewish congregation in the Americas. Unlike many other early Jewish communities in the region, the congregation in Curaçao has remained active throughout the centuries. The history of our people is testimony to our deep roots in Curaçao and continued commitment to our Jewish heritage. | CongregationMikveIsraelEmanuel.Curacao | Curaçao's port entrance with typical Dutch architecture | CongregationMikveIsraelEmanuel.Curacao.Exterior.1 | An artistic view of the 1732 Snoa | CongregationMikveIsraelEmanuel.Curacao.Exterior.2 | The 1732 Snoa reaching up to the heavens | CongregationMikveIsraelEmanuel.Curacao.TempleEmanu-El | The home of the ertswhile Reform Congregation from 1866 to 1966 | CongregationMikveIsraelEmanuel.Curacao.Interior | The Tebah and Bima looking towards the Eychal inside the Snoa | CongregationMikveIsraelEmanuel.Curacao.1716Channukiah | The 1716 Channukiah is still lit every Chanukah | CongregationMikveIsraelEmanuel.Curacao.CantorsConcert | A Cantors' Concert was one of the many events celebrating the Congregation's 350th anniversary in 2001 | ||||||
| 403 | Jan 13 2012 - 10:11am | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Tzedek v'Shalom | Newtown | Pennsylvania | B Vitek | President: Jerry Manas Vice President: Open Secretary: Cindy Weiss-Fisher Treasurer: Steve Pastor | Tzedek v’Shalom (TvS) is a welcoming, spiritual, and growing Reconstructionist Jewish congregation in Bucks County, PA. At TvS, music and creativity are as much a part of our community as prayer and learning. We are an inclusive congregation dedicated to the integration of spiritual life and the pursuit of social justice. With a focus on building community, we create services and life cycle events that embrace Jewish traditions along with contemporary Jewish expression that enrich our lives. We embrace Jewish learning, art, dance, music, meditation, literature, and ritual. We respect diverse views and encourage open dialogue about issues that are relevant to us today. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 404 | Jan 13 2012 - 10:17am | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Temple Beth Shalom | Mechanicsburg | Pennsylvania | B Vitek | President: David Golberg First Vice President: Ira Beckerman Second Vice President: Mort Rubenstein Treasurer: Alan Greenblatt Corresponding Secretary: Myrna Rubenstein Recording Secretary: Carol Hillman Past President: Neal Rudnick | Temple Beth Shalom is a warm, welcoming, and spirited community reflecting the rich diversity of the American Jewish community at large. We come together from varied Jewish backgrounds, including Reform, Reconstructionist, Conservative and Orthodox, and welcome interfaith families, blended families, and individuals of all ages, races and sexual orientation. Our strength lies in the energy, participation and commitment of our members who work together to shape who we are. Our congregation has about 80 families and continues to grow. We believe our members play a vital role in developing and contributing to spiritual leadership. Our size allows us to have intimate and meaningful services, frequently led by our members. Whether led by clergy or laypersons, our services are lively and engaging, melding tradition with contemporary ideas, and where music and warmth intertwine with prayer and study. Temple Beth Shalom is more than a congregation – we are a community of friends that cares about each other, supporting you through tough times and rejoicing with you during simchas, or joyful events. Our History On October 17, 1970, TBS founder Metz Kranzel placed an ad in the Harrisburg Patriot-News asking if any readers might be interested in a synagogue on the West Shore of Harrisburg. The respondents met in December and later received permission to use Christ Presbyterian Church for Jewish worship. The first Shabbat service was held on April 23, 1971 with Rabbi David Ben-Ami as spiritual leader. In 1974, the Kranzel family donated land to build a synagogue outside Mechanicsburg. The Temple building was largely constructed by TBS members and dedicated in October, 1974. From the outset, our synagogue was built to accommodate worship, a religious school, community events and offices. Temple Beth Shalom affiliated with the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation in 1982. In 1990, the congregation engaged Rabbi Carl Choper, who served our congregation through May, 2006. Rabbi Jordi Gendra-Molina has led the congregation since July 2006. In 2003 our sanctuary was renovated with the architectural and planning skills of TBS member Ted Brandow. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 405 | Jan 13 2012 - 10:24am | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Havurat Tikvah | Charlotte | North Carolina | B Vitek | Havurat Tikvah is the Reconstructionist Congregation of Charlotte, N.C. We are a diverse group of families, singles, Jewish and interfaith couples, children and adults who study, share joys and sorrows, celebrate Shabbat and the holidays together and participate in projects that promote social justice. We highlight member participation and leadership in our services, our spiritual growth and our governance.As someone once described us: “The Havurah is like being with all your favorite relatives.” | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 406 | Jan 13 2012 - 10:41am | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation Am Haskalah | Allentown | Pennsylvania | B Vitek | President Sue Wolper Vice President Didi Yunginger Treasurer Izzy Studzienko Corresponding Secretary Gale Malesky Recording Secretary Paula Tahler | Congregation Am Haskalah offers a creative, participatory approach to Judaism, blending tradition with innovation. We believe the past has a vote but not a veto. I knew from my first service that this is where we belonged — that here was a group of Jews who cared deeply about their religion and about each other. (Cary Oshins) Am Haskalah welcomes members from diverse life situations, backgrounds, political and religious perspectives. Each person brings to the community unique talents and needs. Individuals choose levels of involvement with which they feel comfortable. For me, Am Haskalah is wonderfully diverse, creative and traditional — all at the same time. (Gale Maleskey) Members of Am Haskalah are not mere observers, but have the opportunity to participate actively at the very center of Jewish communal life. Reconstructionism, based on the ideas of Rabbi Mordecai Kaplan, is for both intellectuals and mysticists and for both those who see Judaism as a religious community or a community that goes beyond religion. Kaplan understood Judaism to be an "evolving religious civilization." | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 407 | Jan 13 2012 - 10:49am | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Or Hadash | Fort Washington | Pennsylvania | B Vitek | 1983 | Or Hadash is a vibrant and diverse community that is committed to promoting the many facets of our evolving Jewish civilization. We strive to create a warm and welcoming home where all members are accepted and valued. Through our commitment to the principles of Reconstructionist Judaism, we promote and encourage opportunities for study, prayer, cultural and artistic expression, and acts of tikkun olam, or repairing the world. Or Hadash’s home is the historic Fairwold Estate just off Camp Hill Road in Fort Washington, PA, Montgomery County. Our community prides itself on being informal, comfortable, and supportive of a wide range of religious backgrounds, practices, and beliefs. Under the leadership of Rabbi Joshua Waxman and our Religious School Director, Lori Rubin, our congregation continues to grow while maintaining the warmth and intimacy that are its hallmarks. Our mission is: To be a welcoming synagogue community that meets the religious, educational, cultural, and social needs of its members through the principles of Reconstructionist Judaism and the active involvement of its members. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 408 | Jan 13 2012 - 10:55am | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Havurah | Ann Arbor | Michigan | B Vitek | 1993 | The Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Havurah was founded in 1993. For many years we met in members’ homes for services, discussions and celebrations. At that time, services were lay led, and leadership rotated around the membership. Decisions were made by consensus of the entire membership -- which consisted of about 20 people. Dues were $36 per year. Those were the good old days, but these are the even better days. We’ve grown a lot; settled down in the Jewish Community Center; started a school for our kids; celebrated weddings, births, adoptions and bar and bat mitzvahs; expanded from once a month services to a wide range of activities; created a truly innovative project called the Progressive Jewish Giving Fund; formalized our organizational structure; and grown thankfully accustomed to great service leading. OK, I guess we all miss the $36 annual dues, but we’re still driven much more by volunteer energy than by paid staff. If there’s one thing that defines the spirit of our group, it’s community and participation. And yes, that is one thing, because if there isn’t participation, there isn’t community. We can each participate in our own way: leading a discussion or sharing an idea, teaching a song or singing along, organizing an event or just showing up. The Havurah isn’t a building; we don’t even have one. The Havurah is us. And you are most welcome to join! | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 409 | Jan 13 2012 - 11:13am | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation B'nai Tikvah | Mason | Ohio | B Vitek | Rabbi Bruce Adler Education Director Rabbi Donna G Adler President David Fine Secretary Barry Austern Treasurer Gordon Horn Financial Secretary Mitch Balish Membership Chair Sherri Gordon Membership Stephanie Schlagel | Every Voice is Important Our community of about 75 households is made up of individuals, couples and families, children and seniors, multi-racial families, interfaith families, members of all different Jewish backgrounds, and those who have chosen Judaism on their own. We are a "People's Shul," firmly committed to making decisions in accordance with democratic process. We respect tradition, but we are not afraid to question it. We embrace the Reconstructionist position that tradition has a vote, but not a veto. We favor flexibility over dogmatism. Nothing is carved in stone except our desire to build as outstanding a congregation as possible. We are eclectic in our openness to all teachings and practices, regardless of denomination, which nurture the experience of being part of a Jewish community and enhance our members' sense of spiritual fulfillment. We gather regularly to observe the Sabbath and Jewish holidays, to study and to celebrate together. We support one another in times of sorrow and rejoice in each other's gladness. We actively engage in tikkun olom - the involvement in community affairs and translation of the Torah's teachings into concrete deeds of service in the world. We do not believe that one religion is superior to another or that one people is superior to another. But we are deeply committed to the continuation of the Jewish People, the maintenance of Jewish life, and the belief in a universal God. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 410 | Jan 13 2012 - 11:37am | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation Dor Hadash | Pittsburgh | Pennsylvania | B Vitek | Early 1960's | Congregation Dor Hadash (New Generation) was formed in the early 1960's as a prayer and study group and has been an affiliate of the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation since 1969. Voluntarism and active participation are central to the religious, educational, and cultural life of the congregation. We are committed to providing our members with the opportunity for spiritual growth, life-long learning, prayer services, holiday celebrations, life cycle rituals, member support, and community belonging. Through our services, religious school, and celebrations, we fulfill the commandment to teach our children their Jewish heritage and to engage them in an evolving Jewish civilization. Our congregation is welcoming, egalitarian, and inclusive. Our congregants are Jews by birth or by choice; they are single or part of family units; they include people of different sexual orientations and gender identities; and they live in households that are of the same or different faiths. Our services and other activities integrate a deep respect for traditional Judaism, including its music, with the insights and intentionality of contemporary social, intellectual, and spiritual life. Through our religious practices and our dedication to tikkun olam (repairing the world) and gemilut chasadim (loving kindness), we express reverence for the sacred in the world. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 411 | Jan 13 2012 - 11:41am | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation Dorshei Emet | Quebec | Canada | B Vitek | 1960 | Immediate Past President Sharron Schwartz President Sara Saber Freedman 1st Vice-President Roger Antebi 2nd Vice-President Rosana Caplan 3rd Vice-President To be announced Secretary Brian Gelfand Treasurer Uzi Witkowski Parnass Menahem Barsheshat | The original synagogue community created by Lavy Becker in 1960 was more like a havurah. Lavy volunteered to lead services and speak occasionally on Shabbat mornings, leaving members many opportunities to organize and lead services, give Divrei Torah and plan whatever communal diners, activities or study they desired. This continued until 1976 when Rabbi Ron Aigen, one of the early graduates of the RRC was hired as the first professional clergy. The congregation, which had just completed an extension to its 1967 building, grew over the next several decades from under 180 households to over 350. Along with the growth of adult study groups, youth and children’s programs, and many cultural events, the congregation’s committee structure and office support staff also grew. In 1999 the rabbi led the congregation in a building project in order to fulfill the vision of creating the EMET Centre for Spirituality (Emunah) Ethics (Musar) and Culture (Tarbut). The new building was completed in 2002 and stands on the same site as the original building. Today the congregation is approaching 500 households and continues to inspire the same values of participatory Judaism and the creation of a warm, caring community that the founders envisioned. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 412 | Jan 13 2012 - 12:00pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Chavurah B'Yachad | Salt Lake City | Utah | Michael Robinson | 1986 | When we founded Chavurah B’Yachad in 1986, our members had a vision of what a congregation could be: a participatory setting for the exploration of our Jewish roots and carrying forward of our traditions, a forum for intellectual and spiritual growth, an extended family to celebrate life cycle events. We are a congregation of thirty families, including some of those founding members who led our 25th anniversary celebration in June 2011. We hold services in the lovely Pepper Chapel at Congregation Kol Ami. Rabbi Michael Ross travels to Salt Lake City from his home in Philadelphia several times each year to lead our services and enrich our community. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 413 | Jan 13 2012 - 12:10pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation Beth Evergreen | Evergreen | CO | Michael Robinson | 1974 | Congregation Beth Evergreen was founded in 1974 when Bernie Goldman, a recent transplant from Long Island, NY, put a small article in the Canyon Courier asking if there were other Jews in the area who wanted to celebrate the High Holidays with him. Perhaps a dozen people joined him then, and the ball was rolling. From that beginning, the group held monthly services and holiday observances in member’s homes. As the group grew too large for living rooms, services were moved to the old Greystone Castle on Upper Bear Creek Road. Then, through the gracious support of Reverend Dr. Dick Vickery and his congregation, CBE shared the building of the United Methodist Church of Evergreen for ten years. Along the way, members did everything from planning and conducting services to creating holiday observances, such as Passover Seders and Purim Balls. We eventually started a Religious School through volunteer efforts. As the needs of the congregation grew, the congregational leadership sought the assistance of professional educators and clergy on a part-time or volunteer basis. During the late 1990's, the continued growth of the congregation led the congregation to seek our first Rabbi. In 1997 we engaged Rabbi Eliot Baskin, D.Min. who was engaged first on a quarter-time basis, growing to a half-time basis (in addition to his position as Denver Community Chaplain at Jewish Family Services of Denver). Rabbi Baskin was with us until August of 2004. In the spring of 2004, the Board of Trustees, after considerable discussion and input from the congregation, made the commitment to move forward and hire a full-time rabbi. The search continued through spring of 2005 when Rabbi Benjamin ‘Jamie’ Arnold was hired as Congregration Beth Evergreen’s first full-time Rabbi. He joined the congregation in July, 2005. In 2008 the congregation signed a seven-year contract with Rabbi Arnold. Over the years, our congregation has been blessed with a wealth of talented musicians and singers. Since 1997 we have had musical leadership from recording artists Steven Brodsky (CDs with band Mah Tovu include Only This and Turn It), Cantor Robbi Sherwin (CDs include Aish HaKodesh and Todah LaChem), Hal Aqua (CDs with band Los Lantzmun One World and Take a Trip to Lantzville), and Daniel Stellini (CD is First Light). Two past cantorial soloists: Brett Krichiver and Alissa Stanton have gone on to Rabbinic school! Members of our congregation are immensely talented as well and inspire us their musical support. While employing a Rabbi, executive director, religious school director and educators as part of the Congregation Beth Evergreen team, the tradition of member participation and volunteerism continues today. See the "participate" section of this site for more info on all of the active committees in the congregation. After 31 years as an unaffiliated congregation, in June 2005 Beth Evergreen made the decision to affiliate with the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation. Today, Congregation Beth Evergreen has 200 member families and offers a Jewish home for all Jews in the Mountain communities west of Denver. As we grow, we remain committed to fostering a strong sense of community by offering opportunities to participate in meaningful worship, pursue the spiritual, and engage in lifelong Jewish education. Our progressive, egalitarian approach to Jewish practice encourages participation in the celebration of religious, life cycle, and communal events, regardless of an individual’s history or personal relationship with Judaism. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 414 | Jan 13 2012 - 12:11pm | Jennifer Glowacki | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation Beth El | Bennington | Vermont | Jenn G :) | 1909 | President: Lance Allen Wang Vice President: Libby Harris Treasurer: Rich Lowenthal Secretary: Jennifer Burt Members At Large: Steve Fogel Alan Greenspan Paul Hendler Peter Just Ellie Roden Peter Rubin | Congregation Beth El began in 1909 when the Hebrew Congregation of Bennington was founded to promote friendly relationships among Jewish residents of the town and eventually to erect a synagogue. July 29, 1923 brought the culmination of a quarter century of concerted effort with the dedication of the new synagogue at the corner of North and Adams Streets. Widely covered by the press, the dedication not only marked the formal opening of a new house of worship but demonstrated the community feeling of the town and state, with those in attendance including the pastors of the local community churches and the Lieutenant Governor. The community thrived for many years, but by the 1980's the demographics of the community had changed and the synagogue fell into disuse and disrepair. A concerted effort began to rebuild the community and renovate the building, and with the hard work and dedication of a small group, the synagogue again blossomed. The congregation became affiliated with the Jewish Reconstructionist movement and Rabbi Howard Cohen became the community's first full-time rabbi in decades. Rabbi Cohen stepped down after many years and Rabbi Joshua Boettiger joined the community as its spiritual leader, having served earlier as the congregation's first rabbinic intern. Congregation Beth El is now in its second century serving the community, drawing membership from the Vermont, Massachusetts and New York. The congregation offers a wide range of spiritual and educational programs, including weekly meditation, Shabbat and holiday services, a Judaism school, films and lectures, and teen and adult programs. Our monthly Green Mountain Shabbat offers a variety of classes, worship and programs in Tikkun Olam--"healing the world." Our First Friday events offer musical services for families. Congregation Beth El offers monthly dinners for those in the wider community in need, and is active in the Bennington Interfaith Council, including its work with the Bennington Food and Fuel Fund and the Bennington Free Clinic. An annual retreat and periodic congregation trips to Israel suggest the range of activities, truly remarkable for community so small. We cherish our past and look forward with hope to our future, and thank all whose support and commitment have helped ensure our continued presence. | CongregationBethEl.VT.Logo.jpg | CongregationBethEl.VT.Exterior.jpg | Congregation Beth El | |||||||||||||||||
| 415 | Jan 13 2012 - 12:19pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation Dor Hadash | San Diego | CA | Michael Robinson | 1983 | Steve Florman, President Dave Wertlieb, 1st Vice President Cynthia Sistek-Chandler, 2nd Vice President Marilyn Scheininger, Treasurer Anita Peterson, Secretary Marcia Berneger, Trustee Max Greene, Student Trustee Philip Haness, Trustee Judy Hante, Trustee Susanne Scherman, Trustee Dave Wertlieb, Past President | Congregation Dor Hadash offers its members a community-based environment in which to learn, pray and make friends. We are a congregation that depends upon and values the input of all of our members. Dor Hadash is a warm and welcoming community; our doors are open to all – singles, marrieds, gays, lesbians, interracial, interfaith. We are a diverse and varied group of people from all walks of life. In 1983 Rabbi Ron Herstik and a small group of like-minded people established Congregation Dor Hadash as the first Reconstructionist presence in San Diego County, as it remains to this day. In 1984, proudly naming ourselves Dor Hadash, meaning New Generation, we looked ahead to a new kind of American Judaism for our children and ourselves. Our goal was to establish a community far beyond the traditional "brick and mortar" concept. The havurot were developed around common interests, but more importantly established significant and meaningful interpersonal connections. These small groups would form a solid foundation for the larger centralized community. Our affiliation with the Reconstructionist movement met our need of blending tradition with an ever-changing secular world. We began meeting in our members’ homes and then worshipping in rented church spaces in Pacific Beach and La Jolla. Our education program also spent a number of years in living rooms and then rented classrooms at the JCC. Our office space moved from Rabbi Herstik’s living room to a small office suite on Miramar Road. Beth Faber joined us early on as our Cantorial Soloist. In 1994, Leon Natker succeeded Beth as our Cantorial Soloist and served in that capacity for the next 11 years. Rabbi Herstik remained our spiritual leader for 13 years and oversaw our move into our current congregational home on a quiet cul-de-sac in Kearny Mesa in 1994. Rabbi Alexis Roberts (Pearce) became our spiritual leader in 1996 and served us for the following nine years. Rabbi Yaffa-Shira Sultan succeeded her and served the community from July 2005 through June 2010. In August of 2010, Dor Hadash welcomed Rabbi Yael Ridberg as its new rabbi. Within our current space, enhanced by the hands of many members, from the building of the Ark to the cabinets in the kitchen, to the Jerusalem-like feel of our sanctuary walls, we proudly placed our rescued Torah which we acquired in 1986 and is on permanent loan to us. It is from Czechoslovakia and was to be part of a Nazi museum about the extinct race of Jews. This Torah is a constant reminder that we survive. From its inception, life long learning has been one of the primary goals of Congregation Dor Hadash. Our founding members wanted a different and creative approach to education for their children and also wanted to be involved in that learning. Many of our families were from interfaith families and the school accepted whatever background knowledge parents had. We believed that by involving parents in their children’s education, we would be enhancing Judaism throughout the generations. Rabbi Herstik and founding member Andrea Glasser worked together to hire and train teachers, and a more formal school began in 1989 called Gesher (Bridge) School. In 1993, Barbara Carr, a teacher in the program, was hired to succeed Andrea as Education Director. In 1995 Barbara was awarded the JRF Master Teacher award and in January 2006 the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation recognized Gesher School as a model for Reconstructionist education. Betsy Schneider joined Dor Hadash in the summer of 2008 and is Gesher School's Education Director. As Congregation Dor Hadash has changed during the last 28 years, Rabbi Herstik, Rabbi Roberts and Rabbi Sultan helped move us along in our understanding of the Reconstructionist movement and our place in it. We are thrilled as we continue this journey with Rabbi Ridberg as we carry on our mission to inspire exploration of Jewish spirituality and create a caring, Jewish community. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 416 | Jan 13 2012 - 12:24pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Havurat Olam | Tarzana | CA | Michael Robinson | Jerome Blatz, President | We are a very small havurah with 10 households. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 417 | Jan 13 2012 - 12:26pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation Kol Emet | Yardley | Pennsylvania | B vitek | 1984 | Melody Katz President Chuck Weiner Vice President Andrew Finkle Vice President Eric Schwartz Treasurer Randi Davis Board Secretary | Congregation Kol Emet, founded in 1984 as a Reconstructionist synagogue, is committed to the growth of a spiritually and intellectually engaging Judaism. Our congregation is not unlike your own family. We are young and senior, single and married, and traditional as well as interfaith. Like your family, we are dedicated to providing a secure foundation for our children and adolescents by keeping them close and involved with a relevant Judaism. Over the years, we have pooled our talents, knowledge, and ideas to create a meaningful center for Judaism in Yardley and the surrounding communities. Rabbi Howard Cove and the families of Kol Emet welcome you to share the great enthusiasm and energy. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 418 | Jan 13 2012 - 12:30pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Or Zarua Havurah | Berkeley | CA | Michael Robinson | The Reconstructionist Havurah of the East Bay We hold services at the Berkeley Friends' Meeting, 2151 Vine at Walnut, Berkeley,CA | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 419 | Jan 13 2012 - 12:32pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Mayim Rabim Reconstructionist Congregation | Minneapolis | Minnesota | B Vitek | 1992 | Mayim Rabim Reconstructionist Congregation, founded in 1992, is affiliated with the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation. We are an urban Jewish community that comprises people of diverse ages, abilities, sexual orientations, cultural backgrounds, and financial resources. It is our mission to create and sustain spaces that enhance the practice of Judaism in the contemporary world; to that end, we are a house of prayer, of study, and tikkun olam (the repair of the world). As Reconstructionists, we view Judaism as an evolving religious civilization and claim a shared heritage with all Jews. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 420 | Jan 13 2012 - 12:34pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Chico Havurah | Chico | CA | Michael Robinson | Liahna Gordon, President | We are a small Havurah with 15 member households. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 421 | Jan 13 2012 - 12:38pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | University Synagogue | Irvine | CA | Michael Robinson | 1987 | President – Richard D. Fybel Executive Vice President – Sari Schreiber Secretary – Eric Blum Treasurer – Mike Krahelski Past President – Lisa Metzger VP Membership - Susie Rothfeder VP Education – Natalye Black VP Socal Action/Tikkun Olam – Anita Mishook VP Activities – Terry McDonald | At University Synagogue, our mission is to be a center of innovative and dynamic Judaism. If you are looking for an open atmosphere in which you can learn, celebrate and experience Judaism fully, you will find University Synagogue both comfortable and meaningful. We are committed to reaching out to all who are interested in Judaism, including interfaith couples and anyone in search of a modern, rational and joyous approach to Jewish life. University Synagogue was founded by a group of men and women who wanted a more meaningful synagogue experience. We wanted a philosophy that shared our values and we found in Reconstructionism a form of Judaism that mirrored our deepest hopes for our lives. Since its founding, our congregation has grown rapidly, from 8 households to over 600, and we continue to grow. We have a dynamic Rabbi, an inspiring Cantor, and wonderful educators who lead our Pre-School and Religious School. Embodying a sense of community, we kindle spirituality and foster intellectual challenge while broadening the boundaries of modern Jewish life. We welcome all who want a deeply satisfying Jewish experience, offering a full range of programs centered on our continual striving to learn and understand ourselves as Jews and as part of all humanity. At University Synagogue, we call ourselves a congregation, but we think of ourselves as an extended family - an authentic caring community. What unites us is a love of tradition and a desire for innovation. We do what Jews have always done; we weave the beauty of our heritage with the scientific and philosophical truths that we have learned in our lives. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 422 | Jan 13 2012 - 12:43pm | Jennifer Glowacki | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation Kehilat Shalom | Belle Mead | New Jersey | Jenn G :) | 1982 | President: Stacey Anderson First Vice President: Susan Waskow Second Vice President: Iris Rubinstein Treasurer: Debbie Gartenberg Recording Secretary: Debbie Tesser Financial Secretary: Steve Weinstein Trustees: Mark Goldhammer Gary Gartenberg, MD Micahel Galkin Robert Neusner Len Edelstein Ron Lubin | Congregation Kehilat Shalom of Montgomery is a Reconstructionist synagogue dedicated to serving the spiritual, educational, cultural and social needs of a diverse congregation while maintaining a unique and vibrant Jewish presence in central New Jersey. Congregation Kehilat Shalom was initially founded as the Jewish Community Center of Belle Mead by four families in 1982. This core group, which quickly grew to eighteen families, consisted of farmers, doctors, teachers, artists, mechanics, and managers. They were seeking a local Jewish identity and an alternative to the large, impersonal synagogues in the area. In joining together, they created an intimate and loving spirit of unity. During those early years, they met in various locations, including the Montgomery First Aid Squad building, the Burnt Hill Road Elementary School, and in their own private homes. Finally, in 1986, after considerable growth, our own building on Belle Mead-Griggstown Road was purchased. After much soul-searching and discussion, it was decided in 1989 to affiliate with the Reconstructionist Movement, as our beliefs were most aligned with its philosophies. That same year we hired our first full-time rabbi, Shana Margolin, who expanded our religious, educational, cultural, and social programs. Under the leadership of Rabbi Michael Tayvah, we changed our name to Congregation Kehilat Shalom in 2006. In 2007, we welcomed Rabbi Susan Falk. We are a congregation of over 100 families with an active religious school. We also operate Kindercapers, a non-sectarian Nursery school. We remain committed to the ideals of our founders: being a warm, friendly, unpretentious, caring, creative, stimulating congregation, in which all are welcome. In addition to our services, we offer programs such as Religious School (K-7), B'nai Mitzvah Training, post B'nei Mitzvah "Kehi-Loft", Adult Education, a non-sectarian pre-school Kindercapers, our temple Choir Kol Ahava and Sunday Morning Café. Congregation Kehilat Shalom is a welcoming Reconstructionist Jewish community that seeks to create an atmosphere of belonging for all its members. We strive to forge meaningful relationships with each other and with the community at large through: • Beit K’nesset/Gathering Place: Providing a warm, friendly space to pray, study, socialize, celebrate Shabbat, holidays and joyous events and to comfort each other in times of need. • Tikkun Olam/Repair of the World: Using Jewish values to pursue social justice issues of both local and global concern. • Beit Midrash/House of Study: Offering a wide range of educational opportunities for adults and children on Jewish culture, history, language, and ritual. | CongregationKehilatShalom.NJ.Logo.gif | |||||||||||||||||||
| 423 | Jan 13 2012 - 12:45pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation T'chiyah | Oak Park | Michigan | B vitek | 1977 | T'chiyah means "renaissance" in Hebrew. Congregation T'chiyah was founded in 1977 in the City of Detroit and was part of the Renaissance of the urban center. The group was formed from a chavurah, which met monthly in members' homes. Early on we rented space in the St. Mary's Community Center located in Greektown near the site of the first Jewish religious services in Detroit. When the havurah learned that the city was going to tear down the building that had once been Mogain Abraham and was known as the Farnsworth Street Shul they decided to save the contents. Although the building had been used as a Baptist church for decades some of its contents still reflected its Jewish origin. In May 1996, the congregation left the St. Mary's site and met briefly in the Wayne State University area before settling into its next meeting place, the Royal Oak Woman's Club on Fourth and Pleasant Streets (the oldest building in Royal Oak). On June 13, 2004, we moved into our beautiful new home: The David and Miriam Mondry Building in Oak Park on the JCC campus. For the first years of T'chiyah's history, we were led by our own membership. As our congregation grew in size we were joined by visiting rabbis, rabbinical students and scholars. Student rabbis over the years have included Toba Spitzer, Michael Cohen, Amber Powers, Steve Gutow, Murray Silberman, Jordi Gendra, and Donna Kirschbaum. We have been fortunate to welcome into our kehillah such notable guest rabbis as Rabbi David Teutsch, Rabbi Daniel Brenner, Rabbi Debrah Cohen, Rabbi Mordechai Leibling, and Rabbi Steve Gutow. On August 1, 2008, Rabbi Jason Miller became our first rabbi. Rabbi Miller, a native of the Metro Detroit Jewish community, has brought new programming and more learning opportunities to our congregational family. Our Shabbat services, which are both spiritual and reflective, are a shared endeavor between our rabbi and our membership. Our congregation is currently in a period of steady growth as more young families are joining our kehillah. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 424 | Jan 13 2012 - 1:38pm | Jennifer Glowacki | 74.92.126.138 | Jewish Community of Amherst | Amherst | Massachusetts | Jenn G :) | 1950s | Co-President: Guy Wood Co-President: Eli Kwartler Co-First Vice President: Ted Trobaugh Co-First Vice President: Eva Rosenn Second Vice President: Richard Cohen Treasurer: Michael Burkart | Welcome. The Jewish Community of Amherst (JCA) is a welcoming egalitarian synagogue affiliated with the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation. It is committed to offering rich spiritual, educational, and social opportunities to a diverse Jewish community in the Amherst area - from guiding our young and learning from our elders to helping improve conditions in the greater community. The Jewish Community of Amherst is dedicated to creating and maintaining an open, dynamic, spiritual and participatory membership. We believe a strong commitment to Jewish values and embracing the spiritual richness of our traditions enables our diverse community to meet the challenges of our contemporary world. We are an open and welcoming community, including members who are gay, lesbian, straight, bisexual, and transgender, single, in-married and inter-married, and of a variety of colors, backgrounds, physical abilities and economic means. Our History and Growth The JCA's growth in recent years belies its humble beginnings. Amherst's first Jewish residents arrived in the early 1900's. They were few in number, and it was not until the 1950's that the Amherst Jewish Community was established to promote social and cultural events. In 1966, the Amherst Jewish Education Committee was established to teach Hebrew and Jewish studies to the youngest members of the community. Three years later the two groups merged to create the Jewish Community of Amherst, and in 1976 the JCA purchased two buildings from the Second Congregational Church to establish a permanent home. Today, the JCA has approximately 300 member groupings-families, couples, individuals-and is still growing. | JewishCommunityofAmherst.MA.Logo.jpg | JewishCommunityofAmherst.MA.OriginalBldg.jpg | Original Building Built in 1839 | JewishCommunityofAmherst.MA.MainEntrance.jpg | Main Entrance | JewishCommunityofAmherst.MA.Sanctuary.jpg | Our Sanctuary | JewishCommunityofAmherst.MA.SmallSanct.jpg | The Small Sanctuary | |||||||||||
| 425 | Jan 13 2012 - 2:39pm | Jennifer Glowacki | 74.92.126.138 | Shir Hadash Reconstructionist Havurah | Newton Hightlands | MA | Jenn G :) | Winter 1981 | President: Rachel Adler-Golden Vice President: Madelyn Morris Vice President: Murial Gillick Secretary: Carl Lazarus Treasurers: Candy Sidner and Jane Getter | Shir Hadash is an inclusive and egalitarian havurah affiliated with the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation. We are an informal, cooperative congregation (a havurah) of about 60 households. Our members represent widely diverse backgrounds and points of view. For more than 25 years we have grown in our knowledge and understanding of Judaism, largely through teaching one another. Rabbi Audrey Marcus-Berkman enhances our Judaic learning, helps build and support our community, and enriches our member-led services. We have shaped a warm, caring community for members of all ages. We invite you to get acquainted. We meet on Shabbat mornings and for holidays from September through June in the Social Hall of the Lutheran Church of the Newtons, at the intersection of Centre and Cypress streets (1310 Centre Street), in Newton Centre, Massachusetts, convenient to the Newton Centre T stop. | ShirHadash.MA.Logo.jpg | |||||||||||||||||||
| 426 | Jan 13 2012 - 2:48pm | Jennifer Glowacki | 74.92.126.138 | Temple B'nai Abraham | Bordentown | New Jersey | Jenn G :) | 1917 | President: Robin Affrime Executive Vice President: Charlie Weiss Religious Vice President: Sid Morginstin Financial Vice President: Michael Rosen Recording Secretary: Susan Giachetti Religious School Chair: Linda Osman Membership Chair: Kim Aubry Building Chair: Eileen Gale Adult Education Chair: Brian Epstein | Who We Are Temple B'nai Abraham is a small but diverse Jewish community located in historic Bordentown, New Jersey. Our community is both progressive and traditional, enjoying a rich Jewish heritage and history. We are a Reconstructionist congregation and are open and welcoming to all who join. History Records of the Jewish community in Bordentown date back beyond the 1830's, when local Jews played an important part in the town's history. Moses Wolf, a Jewish tailor and clothing store owner, was elected mayor in 1874 and served through 1877. As the Jewish Community grew and became more active, a group of energetic residents formed the "Bordentown Hebrew Association" in 1917. Their stated intent was "to hold and maintain services for the worship of God and the promotion of good fellowship according to the tenets of the Hebrew faith." It also gave its corporation the power to build a synagogue and Hebrew school. In July of 1918, the Bordentown Hebrew Association purchased our temple - the double house at 58-60 Crosswicks Street. By that same fall, the residence was converted to a Shul, and High Holy Day services were conducted there for the first time. In December, 1918, the "Bordentown Hebrew Women's Association" was formed to serve as an auxiliary to the men's group. A Hebrew scholar from Jerusalem was hired in 1921 to serve as resident spiritual leader and Hebrew teacher. Today, the tradition continues at this same location with our temple serving as synagogue, sanctuary, community center, Hebrew school, and in some cases, the Rabbi's residence. Mission Statement Temple B'nai Abraham is a Reconstructionist congregation dedicated to creating a caring and inclusive community, and to enhancing Jewish life through learning and communal activities. We view education for ourselves and our children as fundamental to Jewish life. We do this in order to enhance our own lives as contemporary Jews and to perpetuate our bond and our children's bond to our heritage. In order to reach our goals, we recognize the need to explore and experience community from various approaches. We believe that the focused evolution of our Jewish community may occur in a beneficial manner if we endeavor to continue to provide a variety of social, religious, experiential, and educational services for our members. In doing so, we hope to develop connections to other Jewish people and Jewish communities. We strive to preserve and develop Jewish traditions by merging past and present in a spirit of democracy, participation, egalitarianism, and creative thought within a Reconstructionist framework. We endeavor to provide excellence in Jewish education. In doing, so we hope to pass on our values and traditions to future generations of Jews. It is our desire to provide a viable center of living Judaism where people can find meaning in worship. In this way we create, grow and protect connections to God, Judaism, and community. | TempleBnaiAbraham.NJ.Logo.gif | TempleBnaiAbraham.NJ.Building.jpg | Our Building | |||||||||||||||||
| 427 | Jan 13 2012 - 3:29pm | Anonymous | 50.12.180.114 | Congregation Ahavath Sholom | Great Barrington | Massachusetts | Marcy Ross | 1926 | Guy Pancer President Sandra Flannery Vice President Marty Stransky Treasurer Lisa Chamberlain Secretary | Aaron and Rose Pomerantz were the first Jewish family to settle in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, sometime before the turn of the century. By 1921, there were fifteen Jewish families, meeting for religious services at the Pomerantz home. Because their numbers were growing, they decided to search for a suitable site for a synagogue. They came upon Charlie Lee’s old carpenter shop on North Street, once a schoolhouse. Aaron Pomerantz and Ike Broverman signed a mortgage in 1921, but there were not funds for renovations. A fundraising committee was formed that came up with an original, and even spectacular idea! A group of the more musically talented members traveled the countryside every Sunday giving concerts of Yiddish and Hebrew songs. Isadore Seader was usually the soloist and was billed as the “Little Hazan.” This little group of dedicated congregants attracted many appreciative audiences and, therefore, was able to raise enough money to complete the renovations by 1922. The synagogue then successfully petitioned for a charter in 1926 and was named “Love of Peace” synagogue. There were seven founding members, some of which have descendents among our congregants today. In 1954, the synagogue adopted its current Hebrew name: “Ahavath Sholom.” From early in the shul’s history until the 1980s, Rabbi Jacob Axelrod led the congregation, and also served as Great Barrington’s kosher butcher. For many years, his shop stood next to the synagogue. After Rabbi Axelrod’s passing, the synagogue functioned with dedicated lay leadership. In the 1990s, Rabbi Bob Gluck, a graduate of the Reconstructionist Rabbinic College, became spiritual leader of the congregation, and Ahavath Sholom subsequently joined the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation. After Rabbi Gluck left the congregation, Ahavath Sholom was served by four wonderful student rabbis from RRC. In 2005, the congregation welcomed Barbara Cohen as their spiritual leader. She and her husband Mark led an ambitious program to restore and renovate the historic shul—the oldest continuously operating building of Jewish worship in Berkshire County. Like the founders of Ahavath Sholom, a fundraising committee used music as the means to accrue money for the renovations—with three years of sold-out concerts, featuring a local Klezmer band, the Knaydels, with Barbara Cohen as vocalist. Today, Congregation Ahavath Sholom is a warm and welcoming community, in which people of many backgrounds can come together to worship and explore the richness of the Jewish tradition. Members of Ahavath Sholom are not mere observers but active participants in all aspects of synagogue community life. We provide opportunities for our members to grow in knowledge in order to make informed decisions about their personal and religious lives. All are encouraged to choose a level of participation that is comfortable for them. A variety of committees provides possibilities that appeal to the interests of our diverse membership. Friday night and Saturday morning worship, festival, and High Holy Day services are participatory through congregant involvement in liturgy, Torah, music and discussion. The thoughtful guidance of our Board, the Religious and Spiritual Life committee, working hand in hand with our Spiritual Leader, reflect one of the deeply held values of Reconstructionism and Congregation Ahavath Sholom...the respectful partnership of leader and congregation in creating a healthy religious community. Inclusiveness is a central aspect of a Reconstructionist community. We welcome all Jews and those with an interest in exploring Judaism regardless of race, sexual orientation, financial ability, or prior knowledge of Judaism or the Hebrew language. We respect the interfaith backgrounds of many of our members and families and deeply appreciate the decision to commit to participation in our synagogue. Our Religious School provides a nurturing and meaningful learning environment for our children with an emphasis on creating a lifelong love of Judaism: a sense of joy, confidence, and rootedness in our religion. | AhavathSholom.MA.exterior | The restored exterior of Congregation Ahavath Sholom. | AhavathSholom.MA.Klezmerconcert | The first of three Klezmer concerts that helped fund the restoration of Ahavath Sholom's 100-year-old building. Photo by Don Victor. | AhavathSholom.MA.AdultEducationCommittee | Ahavath Sholom's Adult Education Committee, shown here, planning a 2011 Kristallnacht program. The panel discussion with Holocaust survivors drew an audience of 500. | AhavathSholom.MA.Sukkot | Spiritual Leader Barbara Cohen (at right) with members of the congregation in the shul's sukkah. | ||||||||||||
| 428 | Jan 13 2012 - 3:50pm | Anonymous | 50.12.180.114 | Congregation Ahavath Sholom | Great Barrington | Massachusetts | SEE PREVIOUS FORM; THIS JUST PROVIDES INFO ON AN ADD'L PHOTO UPLOADED. | AhavathSholom.MA.TorahStudy | Led by Spiritual Leader Barbara Cohen, up to 25 eager participants meet weekly for "Nosh and Drosh," a lively Torah study and discussion. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 429 | Jan 13 2012 - 4:27pm | Anonymous | 74.109.201.6 | Congregation Dor Hadash | Pittsburgh | PA | Leslie Hoffman | 1963 | Co-Presidents: Kathy Blee and Pam Goldman V.P. of Administration: Wendy Kobee V.P. of Ritual: Miri Rabinowitz Recording Secretary: Jean Clickner Treasurer: Harry Levinson Social Action Chair: Wendy Osher Membership Chairs: Mark Rubenstein Life Events Chair: Judy Grumet Social Events Chair: Rachel Hovne Adult Education co-Chairs: Ruth Drescher & Sarah Angrist Program co-Chairs: Dan Leger and Barbara Baumann Dor Hadash Religious School Liaison: Michael Marks Member-at-Large: Daniel Mosse Kol Editor: Donna Coufal Past President - Deane Root | Congregation Dor Hadash (New Generation) was formed in the early 1960's as a prayer and study group and has been an affiliate of the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation since 1969. Volunteerism and active participation are central to the religious, educational, and cultural life of the congregation. We are committed to providing our members with the opportunity for spiritual growth, life-long learning, prayer services, holiday celebrations, life cycle rituals, member support, and community belonging. Through our services, religious school, and celebrations, we fulfill the commandment to teach our children their Jewish heritage and to engage them in an evolving Jewish civilization. As a congregation of learners, we share the goals and outlook of the Reconstructionist movement: Prayer and study as expressive and creative modes of spirituality; Torah as the continual, creative and sacred search for meaning in life; Active, egalitarian and responsible participation in the Jewish community; Mitzvot, including acts of social justice and compassion, as our obligation to hallow all life; Diverse Jewish understandings of God and the search for holiness that underlies them; Knowledgeable ties to Judaism as a religious civilization and to the land and people of Israel. Our congregation is welcoming, egalitarian, and inclusive. Our congregants are Jews by birth or by choice; they are single or part of family units; they include people of different sexual orientations and gender identities; and they live in households that are of the same or different faiths. Our services and other activities integrate a deep respect for traditional Judaism, including its music, with the insights and intentionality of contemporary social, intellectual, and spiritual life. Through our religious practices and our dedication to tikkun olam (repairing the world) and gemilut chasadim (loving kindness), we express reverence for the sacred in the world. | CongregationDorHadash.PA.AnniversaryEvent1.jpg | Congregation leaders welcome members to the 25th Anniversary Celebration for Cantor Cheryl Klein | CongregationDorHadash.PA.AnniversaryEvent2.jpg | Cantor Cheryl Klein listens to members' tributes celebrating her 25 years of service | CongregationDorHadash.PA.Ritual1.jpg | Our youngest members enjoying dreidel games at the Hanukah On Ice party | CongregationDorHadash.PA.TikkunOlam1.jpg | Dor Hadash welcomed Bhutanese refugees to our Hanukah on Ice Celebration | CongregationDorHadash.PA.TikkunOlam2.jpg | Dor Hadash members participate in Social Action programs | ||||||||||
| 430 | Jan 13 2012 - 7:56pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Jewish Reconstructionist Congregation | Evanston | Illinois | Eve Maslin | 1964 | Board of Directors The Board of Directors is the governing body of JRC. The Board is composed of an Executive Committee and a General Board. It’s members meet monthly to discuss broad issues of budget and finance, personnel, member services, and education and social action within the context of Jewish values. The Board is elected every May by the congregation. Monthly meetings are open to all congregants wishing to attend by contacting the President in advance. JRC Board of Directors for 2011-2012 President, Freddi Greenberg Past President, Joshua Karsh Vice Presidents: Administration, Vickie Korey Development. David Tabak Operations, Lisa Pildes Education, Steve Fox Tikkun Olam, Marty Rosenheck Ritual Practices, Ann Perkins Information, Brad Moldofsky Membership, Karen Libman Treasurer, Henry Nutkevitch Secretary, Susan Witz Members-at-Large: Lisa Barbe, Linda Kaskel, Stan Cohn. Jason Osborne, David Forte, Sandy Spatz, Marge Frank, Ruth Wenger, Rick Friedman, Carla Willis, Elliot Frolichstein-Appel, Youth Member, Aaron Litoff | Welcome to JRC Jewish Reconstructionist Congregation is a 500-household congregation known for its joyful spirituality, intellectual curiosity, inclusivity, and deep commitment to social justice. We have built a highly acclaimed green building, and our rabbi has been heralded by Newsweek magazine as one of the top 25 pulpit rabbis in the United States. But most of all, JRC is about people - our members. Our congregation is as diverse as the American Jewish community, including observant and nonobservant Jews, interfaith families, blended families, people of color, gays and lesbians, believers and nonbelievers. Keep up to date with JRC by joining our email list. Click here to subscribe - you can choose to receive our Weekly Announcements, Tikkun Olam Alerts, Rabbi Rosen's Shabbat Message, and more. Our Mission & History The mission of Jewish Reconstructionist Congregation (JRC) is to create an engaged Jewish Community that practices a Judaism responsive to the times and culture in which we live - sustainable Judaism for the 21st Century. JRC has a rich and varied history, rooted in an evolving and active Judaism. We began as the first established Reconstructionist Havurah (Jewish study group of give-and-take education) in Chicago. The group soon developed into a participatory member-led congregation of singles and families, dedicated to providing innovative and egalitarian services and leadership to its community. Services were exciting and enriching, utilizing musical instruments, multi-media presentations, drama and modern dance. Social action projects, educational programs for adults, a religious school for children, and first Bar and Bat Mitzvahs evolved as the community grew. Today our membership counts more than 475 households. We have 250 children enrolled in our Early Childhood Center, religious school and youth group. From our beginning, JRC’s history has been the story of individuals coming together to form a unique congregation with a sense of intellectual integrity, moral purpose and meaningful community. It is through the combined efforts of our founders, our current officers, Rabbi, Cantor, staff, and membership that we continue to nurture and develop our original dream. | JRC.IL.Greenspace.jpg | Jewish Reconstructionist Congregation Greenspace | JRC.IL.jpg | Jewish Reconstructionist Federation | ||||||||||||||||
| 431 | Jan 13 2012 - 9:54pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Kehilat Hanahar, 'The Little Shul by the River' | New Hope | Pennsylvania | Eve Maslin | 1994/5457 | Rabbi - Rabbi Diana Miller Shul School Director and Rabbinic Intern - Derek Rosenbaum Executive Committee President, Arthur Spector Vice Presidents, Jim Miller, Caren Franzini Secretary, Susan Fox Treasurer, Howard Parker Committee Chairs Ritual, Jim Miller Education, Sondra Dantzic Continuing Education, Arthur Spector Communications, Denise Marshall Membership, Arthur Spector Fundraising, Alison Gross, Ted Robinson Finance, Harris Steinberg, Carl Glassman Building and Grounds, Steve Fox Social Action, Marjorie Kaplan | Kehilat Hanahar, 'The Little Shul by the River', is all about the 21st century, yet grounded in tradition. Since our founding in 1994/5457 we have created a dynamic and unique synagogue and Jewish community here in the historic heart of the Delaware Valley, serving members from across Bucks County, PA and Mercer County, NJ. As a Reconstructionist congregation, we are committed to…... Practicing Judaism in a manner that is relevant to modern Jews who still desire to maintain a connection with our historic yet ever evolving civilization. Defining Judaism as more than a religion. For us it's an evolving civilization encompassing history, literature, art, music, land, and language. Building a multi-generational and diverse Jewish community. Creating in our synagogue and our vibrant community a means for affirming the ideals of our tradition, in both worship and in deed. Instructing our young and old in our history, tradition and Torah. We are lead by Rabbi Diana Miller, who succeeds our founding Rabbi, Rabbi Sandy Roth. To visit with us and to be a part of our community is an experience you will never forget. To be among our caring, stimulating and lively congregants is to bring a new dimension to Judaism. We welcome you and look forward to sharing our joy with you. Founded in 1994/5754, Kehilat HaNaHar is a Reconstructionist synagogue serving the Jewish Community of New Hope, PA and Lambertville, NJ, as well as surrounding communities. The congregation was created to provide Jews in the greater New Hope-Lambertville area with a permanent home where they practice the principles of Judaism consistent with the Reconstructionist concept. We are a congregation that strives for diversity, inclusiveness and participation. We are committed to practicing Judaism in a manner that is relevant to Jewish Americans living in the Delaware Valley, building a multi-generational and diverse Jewish community. Our shul is also dedicated to creating in our synagogue and the surrounding Jewish community a means for affirming the ideals of our tradition in worship and in deed, and instructing the young and old in our history and in the Torah. Shabbat services are held each Friday at our synagogue, located atop a wooded hillside in New Hope, PA. | KehilatHaNahar.PA.jpg | Kehilat HaNahar Building | KehilatHaNahar.PA.BellTower.jpg | Bell tower atop our circa 1840 historic building | ||||||||||||||||
| 432 | Jan 14 2012 - 8:25pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation Kol HaNeshama | Sarasota | Florida | Eve Maslin | Co-President: Kayla Niles Co-President: Toby Deutsch Vice President: Maureen Binderman Treasurer: John Niles Secretary: Ruth Brandwein | Mission Statement The mission of Congregation Kol HaNeshama, a Reconstructionist Synagogue, is to enrich the lives of its members through active participation in the three traditional core values of Judaism: TORAH ›› Jewish Learning and Way of Life We recognize that study of Torah is a lifelong process. Our personal philosophies and practices may vary widely. However, we share a passionate commitment to Judaism and to furthering our spiritual growth individually and communally. AVODAH ›› Worship and Celebration We are united in our search for opportunities to explore creative approaches to Jewish celebration, learning and living while maintaining an abiding respect for traditional Jewish values and practice. GEMILUT HASADIM ›› Acts of Loving Kindness and Concern We strive to be a true Kehilla Kedosha, a holy community. We endeavor to engage each other in mutual care, aid and support in times of need. We will work together through participation in the Jewish community and the wider world to meet our sacred responsibility of Tikkun Olam. Although we may differ in our political philosophies, we are united in our concern for the Land of Israel as the historic homeland of the Jewish people and the State of Israel as a central focal point for the Jewish world. Our members are urged to understand the issues and be involved in activities that impact the well being of the State of Israel and all its inhabitants. We welcome all individuals and families of varying Jewish lifestyles, marital status, gender, race, age and sexual orientation into our community. | CongregationKolHaNeshama.FL.Logo.jpg | CongregationKolHaNeshama.FL.View.jpg | Congregation Kol HaNeshama View | ||||||||||||||||||
| 433 | Jan 14 2012 - 9:23pm | Anonymous | 69.242.213.237 | Reconstructionist Congregation of Detroit | Detroit | Michigan | Carol Weisfeld | 2000 | President Carol Weisfeld Vice President Alvin Saperstein Treasurer Anthony Dillof Secretary Glenn Weisfeld Past President Alan Schenk | “The Reconstructionist Congregation of Detroit is a fairly new Synagogue. I would have been so excited that RCD was formed, except that I don’t even remember because I was less than a year old then. RCD is committed to keeping Judaism alive in Detroit. Our synagogue has no rabbi, so the members take turns leading services. I can’t wait for my turn.” This is part of the brief history of the Reconstructionist Congregation of Detroit (RCD) written by twelve-year-old member Jared Schenk, upon the occasion of dedicating our new Torah four months ago. It had not escaped Jared’s attention that he would soon read from that Torah at his own Bar Mitzvah. He had captured some of our key attributes as a community. RCD is a tiny congregation (24 member units), comprising families, a US Senator, single moms, and diverse couples. Many of our members teach or work for social agencies in Detroit. We were supported beautifully by the surrounding Detroit community as we raised funds for our new Torah; we simultaneously all learned about a sofer’s role and the rituals surrounding creation and preservation of the scroll. Our sanctuary is located in the education wing of Christ Church Detroit; that congregation came and applauded us as we carried our Torah into our sanctuary for the first time. Another way to keep Judaism alive in Detroit is to keep Jewish history alive, which we do in three ways: we preserve artifacts from former city synagogues (see our photos); we participate as docents and hosts for tours organized by the Jewish Historical Society of Michigan; and we have produced a children’s activity book (Early Jewish Days in Michigan) that identifies values of tikkun olam in the lives of Jews who played important roles in our state’s history. As Jared put it, RCD is committed to keeping Judaism alive in Detroit. | ReconstructionistCongregationofDetroit.MI.Founding.jpg | RCD's Founding is recognized by Detroit City Council, 2000. | ReconstructionistCongregationofDetroit.MI.Ritual.jpg | Each year RCD members observe Tashlich by casting sins into the Detroit River. | ReconstructionistCongregationofDetroit.MI.Education.1.jpg | RCD participates in many tours hosted by the Jewish Historical Society of Michigan, providing docents who describe Jewish history in the city. | ReconstructionistCongregationofDetroit.MI.Education.2.jpg | RCD's coloring/activity book: teaching Torah values while having fun! | ReconstructionistCongregationofDetroit.MI.HistoricWindow.1.jpg | RCD's historic window, rescued from a demolished Detroit synagogue, is moved to the Detroit Historical Museum for the exhibit on 300 years of Jews in America. | ReconstructionistCongregationofDetroit.MI.HistoricWindow.2.jpg | The historic window from 1920, on loan to the Detroit Historical Museum, is described by RCD members. | ReconstructionistCongregationofDetroit.MI.HistoricWindow.3.jpg | RCD's historic window makes the cover of the state journal! | ReconstructionistCongregationofDetroit.MI.NewTorah.1.jpg | RCD's old Torah is carefully examined by a sofer, as members watch and listen. | ReconstructionistCongregationofDetroit.MI.NewTorah.2.jpg | The sofer puts finishing touches on our "new" Torah as members watch him work. | ReconstructionistCongregationofDetroit.MI.NewTorah.3.jpg | Members carry RCD's new Torah through the streets of Detroit. |
| 434 | Jan 14 2012 - 9:39pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation Shirat Hayam | Marshfield | MA | Eve Maslin | 1996 | President: Chuck Goldman Vice President: Zac Rolnik Treasurer: Lilli Meiselman Secretary: Ilene Horvitz | CONGREGATION SHIRAT HAYAM & RECONSTRUCTIONISM Shirat Hayam, which means "Song of the Sea," is a small Reconstructionist congregation serving several South Shore towns that was established in 1996. Shirat Hayam is an especially welcoming congregation with many interfaith families in our membership. For our synagogue and our religious school we share a building with Marshfield United Methodist Church. Reconstructionist Judaism is the newest of the four major streams of Judaism. It has come into prominence in the United States over the past 75 years. Its founder, Mordecai Kaplan, did not believe in the traditional notion of God as an all-knowing figure. Rather, Kaplan believed that God works through nature and through human beings - not upon them. Reconstructionist Jews generally think it is more important to believe that justice, kindness, and compassion are godly attributes, rather than to think of God as a power that possesses the attributes of justice, kindness, and compassion. This is another way of expressing the importance of human responsibility in bringing godliness into the world. OUR MISSION STATEMENT Congregation Shirat Hayam is an inclusive, open-minded, and friendly congregation offering rich spiritual, educational, and social opportunities to a diverse Jewish community. We are grounded in and observant of tradition, guiding our young and learning from our elders, dedicated to creating and maintaining an open, dynamic, spiritual, and participatory membership. Our diverse community welcomes all types of families and anyone wanting to explore Jewish identity and rituals. We are dedicated to creating a caring and inclusive community, and to enhancing Jewish practice and learning in the lives of our members. We are committed to preserving and passing on our Jewish culture, providing an exciting and meaningful education experience for all ages. We value and encourage education and life-long learning as being fundamental to Jewish life. Our religious school provides Hebrew language training, religious instruction, and holiday celebration, providing complete and engaging Jewish education. We do this so that our children may grow up having been exposed to the full richness of their Jewish religion and culture, and are able to pass their knowledge on to future generations. Our congregation is founded on Reconstructionist based decision-making, and has grown due to the creative and spiritual contributions of our members. We encourage everyone to take an active role in some aspect of our congregational life, acknowledging that every member's voice is equal and important. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 435 | Jan 14 2012 - 10:28pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | String of Pearls | Princeton | New Jersey | Eve Maslin | 1992 | Lorraine Fisch, President Sharon Mizels, Vice President Ann Harwood, Treasurer Kathy Orchen, Secretary Liz Cutler Karen Dentler Janice Fine Lorraine Fisch Bruce Gershkowitz Jayne Gershkowitz Deborah Goodkin Sherry Meyer Sandra Norman Donna Rubin Marsha Rudolph Abby Sorrell Gail Szenes Brian Tucker Evan Yassky Julie Zimmerman | Our Mission String of Pearls is a participatory Reconstructionist congregation dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive Jewish community. We explore the evolving nature of Jewish life within the framework of Judaism's enduring values. We affirm the concept of mitzva as obligation by acting on those values through the practices of torah (learning), avodah (service), and g'milut hasadim (acts of kindness). As progressive American Jews, we are committed to challenging and being challenged by Jewish traditions for the enrichment of our own lives and for the perpetuation of our bond, and our children's bond, with our heritage. By engaging with these traditions, we seek to stimulate our intellects, uplift our souls, and help repair the world. Our Vision Growing meaningful Jewish experiences. Our History String of Pearls is a congregation of over 50 households in the Princeton area whose members have been gathering together since 1992. From the beginning it has been a proudly diverse and inclusive Jewish congregation, welcoming young and old, singles and families, Jews by birth and by choice, non-Jewish partners in interfaith couples, gay and straight,the spiritually settled and the spiritually restless; in short, all who are willing to commit to the integration of community, worship, study, and acts of loving kindness (gemilut hasadim) and repair of the world (tikkun olam). Our congregation’s name, String of Pearls, comes from one of the first songs the congregation learned to sing together. The lyrics of the Yiddish song, Schnirele Perele (String of Pearls), imply that those who are unique "pearls" share a sense of hope for the future. Rav Abraham Isaac Kook, the first Ashkenazi chief rabbi of the British Mandate for Palestine, said, "As the string holds the pearls of the necklace together, so the yearning to commune with G-d unifies and joins all humanity as one. That yearning is the essence of the soul, which derives from the eternal source of all perfection." | StringofPearls.NJ.ArkofCovenant.jpg | String of Pearls Ark of Covenant | StringofPearls.NJ.Logo.jpg | String of Pearls Logo | ||||||||||||||||
| 436 | Jan 16 2012 - 12:33pm | Anonymous | 72.94.179.222 | Congregation Kol Emet | Yardley | Pennsylvania | Melody Katz | 1985 | Melody Katz - President, Chuck Weiner and Andrew Finkle- Vice Presidents, Randi Davis- Secretary, Eric Schwartz-Treasurer, Robert Moses- Ritual Chair, Barb Lavine-Adult Education, Brad Pedrow- Community Relations ,Dina Bortnichak-Early Childhood Education, Finance- Tom Kearns, Richard Nedelman-House, Burt Sutker- Long Range Planning Planning, Julie Asplen-Membership, Jill Gordon- Religious School Education, Marc Berger-Social Action, Heidi Bush- Youth Programming, Lisa O'Rourke and Barbara Cohen-Fundraising. Ellie Fisher- Rabbi Liaison Committee | Kol Emet began in 1984 with an ad in a local newspaper placed by the Wilson family looking for progressive like minded Jewish families in the Yardley area. This growing group met in peoples' homes for a few years and formed a relationship with an independent religious school held in the Marks' family home called the "Mah Tov Classroom". The "Mah Tov" classroom and Kol Emet grew quickly and became the first Reconstructionist congregation in Bucks County. The community was built on the principles of community, inclusiveness and community outreach. As we outgrew living rooms we began meeting at the Yardley Quaker Friends Meeting House. Shabbat services and holiday celebrations were filled with fun, a sense of community and usually with a social action piece added to the celebration. Eventually the community wanted a place to call home and with only about 80 familes and 100% participation we purchased land on which to build our future home. On Thanksgiving weekend 2000 we had a wonderful joint service with our friends from the Quaker Meeting House and walked our Torahs to our new home in Yardley. From 80 families we are now 240 families strong. We have a wonderful preschool in addition to our religious school and family education programs. We are a warm, welcoming and haimish community and our inclusiveness of interfaith families has set us apart. We have been blessed, and continue to be blessed, with many involved and committed interfaith families. We have drawn congregants from a variety of Jewish backgrounds and our motto is to encourage your Jewish practice without judgement. We have an active youth group as well as wonderful family Shabbat celebrations. Our involvement in the community has continued to expand with food and clothing drives, adopt a highway, holiday gift drives, packaging meals, serving at food shelters and volunteering at the Jewish Relief Agency. | CongregationKolEmet.PA.AdultEducation2010 | Adult Education is a vital part of nurturing our minds and spirits | Picture Name 2 CongregationKolEmet.PA.BurnTheMortgageParty1995 | The community celebrates the burning of the mortgage in 1995 | CongregationKolEmet.PA.Harmoniyah1995ModelSeder | Music, Food and Smiles abound during this 1995 model seder | Picture Name 4 CongregationKolEmet.PA.HebrewEducation2010 | Hebrew school students and a student-aide reap the benefits of their beautiful building's classrooms | CongregationKolEmet.PA.KampKolEmet2009 | Three young musketeers are building life-long friendships at Kamp Kol Emet | CongregationKolEmet.PA.NewBldgIsDesigned1999 | A 1999 dream for a new sanctuary is depicted here; it is a reality today | CongregationKolEmet.PA.NewRabbi | A younger Rabbi Cove in 1997 was just beginning to assume the community leadership role he plays today | CongregationKolEmet.PA.PreviousHome | Before our new home we worshipped in the Yardley Friends Meeting house | CongregationKolEmet.PA.Rituals2009 | Synaplex Philadelphia and Kol Emet partner to celebrate a wonderful Chanukah in 2009 | CongregationKolEmet.PA.TikkunOlam1996ParkCleanUp | As we do today, back in 1996 we volunteered to help clean up the roads and parks of our community |
| 437 | Jan 17 2012 - 5:48am | Anonymous | 174.31.139.121 | Kadima Reconstructionist Community | Seattle | WA | Kathy Gallagher | 1978 | Sima Kahn, President; Doug Brown, Vice-President; Richard Ginnis, Treasurer; Michael Blum, Secretary. | Kadima is Seattle's premier progressive Jewish community and its only Reconstructionist community. Kadima integrates celebration, study and work for social justice through programs; holidays; Shabbatot; education; and activism for a just, peaceful and healthy world. Kadima strives to offer a warm, inclusive and diverse Jewish community. Jewish beliefs and practices among Kadima’s membership range from humanistic to theistic. Multi-faith families are welcomed. Everyone is encouraged to celebrate and learn more about progressive Judaism. For 34 years, Kadima, which means “forward,” has been a pioneer on many fronts: supporting equal rights for gays and lesbians, fair labor practices, religious inclusion for Jews of all backgrounds, and peace in the Middle East that includes the coexistence of an Israeli state and a Palestinian state. Kadima's Women's Torah Project created and celebrated the first sefer Torah written and embellished by an international community of women scribes and artists. Numerous volunteers (of all genders) provided administrative, creative and financial support to the project. The Middle East Peace Camp for children, a joint venture of Kadima, the Arab Center of Washington and Kay Bullit, was launched in the summer of 2002. The camp has served children aged 5-12 every summer since, working toward peace through friendship, education and fun. Kadima co-sponsors Seattle Pride Shabbat every year. Kadima also supports the Seattle Jewish Film Festival. For many years, Kadima's office was in one location, its Sunday school was in another and its Hebrew school in yet another. Services and celebrations were held in various community centers or churches. Three years ago, Kadima found a house and now, at last, can do everything under one roof. (Except High Holy Days services, which still take place across town.) | Kadima.WA.educationhighlights.1.jpg | Kadima B'nei Mitzvah students get their art on | kadima.WA.educationhighlights.2.jpg | First day of Kadima's Pre-K class | kadima.wa.educationhighlights.3.jpg | Kadima students making challah | kadima.WA.rituals.1.jpg | Kadima's annual SukkahFest | kadima.wa.majorprogramsofnote.2,jpg | Kadima's Torah Fair in advance of the Women's Torah siyyum | kadima.wa.majorprogramsofnote.1.jpg | Eitz Chayim art, which became the symbol of the Women's Torah Project | ||||||||
| 438 | Jan 17 2012 - 5:16pm | Anonymous | 173.79.59.110 | Mishkan Torah Congregation | Greenbelt | MD | Jackie Kling | Early 1930s | President - Jackie Kling Executive Vice President - Dan Lowery Programming Vice President - Irv Wartell Financial Secretary - Arlene Gottlieb Treasurer - Bill Schwartz Recording Secretary - Janet Davis Immediate Past President - Steve Mirsky | Mishkan Torah.....by Ellen Rubin A simple question asked of Ethel Morganstein, a Greenbelt, Maryland resident in the late 1930’s, planted the seed from which Mishkan Torah ultimately grew. When she went to pay her rent to the rental manager, he pointed out that various Christian denominations had established churches and asked why no Jewish congregation had yet been formed in Greenbelt – the first planned community in the United States. Motivated by the rental manager’s query, Ms. Morganstein obtained the names and addresses of Jewish families and went door to door to invite them to an organizational meeting at her home. At that meeting, the Greenbelt Hebrew Congregation was born. Regular Friday night services were held in the music room of the Center School in Greenbelt, and the first High Holy Day services were held in the fire house, with a chorus, led by Harry Fleisher, enhancing the services. A Torah was borrowed from the Washington Hebrew Congregation as were the prayer books. Years later, congregant Marlene Mollerick learned that a British synagogue had custody of twelve hundred Torahs from Czechoslovakia, which had been saved by British troops from Nazi destruction. They were available on permanent loan to worthy synagogues. She promptly applied for a Torah on Mishkan Torah’s behalf and was told that Mishkan Torah had qualified. The existing ark was re-designed by Joe Dalis to house Mishkan Torah’s permanent loan. Eventually the Greenbelt Hebrew Congregation merged with the newly established Jewish Community Center of Prince George’s County. Its mission was mainly focused on social activities and having a community center for Jews although there were some religious aspects as well. Shortly after the Jewish Community Center of Prince George’s County’s founding, Rabbi Morris A. Sandhaus who had worked for nine years with a Jewish congregation in Yonkers, N.Y., was hired to lead the congregation. On February 13, 1943, the JCC celebrated Greenbelt’s first Bar Mitzvah. In 1949, the JCC acquired a tract of 0.79 acres from the federal government, which cost $1,000. Once this purchase was made, the dream of a new building was on its way to becoming a reality. In an 1995 essay commemorating Mishkan Torah’s 40th anniversary, a congregant recalls, “I remember a gentile watching us lay bricks. He went back to his boss, a Mr. Brown of the Aldon Construction Company, and told him, ‘Some crazy Jewish amateurs are trying to build a church in Greenbelt and are doing a terrible job of it.’ He continues, “One Sunday, Mr. Brown came out with all of his bricklayers and helped put up all the corners of the building, which gave us a marvelous start.” Many synagogue members worked steadily on the building for over three years. On March 20, 1955 the new building was dedicated, with appropriate ceremonies and celebration. The Jewish Community Center of PG County continued to grow and, although it is still officially incorporated as the JCC of PG County, in 1968 the membership decided to begin using the name Mishkan Torah. The decision stemmed from the fact that it was becoming more of a house of worship yet still retaining its original purpose as a community center for Jews. In 1969 a ground breaking ceremony was held for the addition of the Karp Family Hebrew School. Men and women have participated equally in all facets of synagogue life since 1973 when Mishkan Torah became affiliated with both the Conservative and Reconstructionist Movements. Following the tenure of Rabbi Maurice Weinberg from 1966 – 1973, Rabbi Kennth Berger, of blessed memory, was hired from the first graduating class of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College. Mishkan Torah has had three Rabbis since the tragic death of Rabbi Berger in a plane crash - Rabbi Steven Bayar (1982 - ), Rabbi Saul Grife ( ) and our current Rabbi, Jonathan Cohen. Our Cantor, Phil Greenfield, has been with us for over 30 years. Though many years have passed, and the world has changed since the 1955 dedication, much of the world of Mishkan Torah has remained the same. In the 21st century, Mishkan Torah’s members mirror their predecessors in bringing their devotion, do-it-yourself energy, individual talents, and financial support to a shul that is known for its warmth and sense of family. Now as then, Mishkan Torah has demonstrated its ability to survive and flourish, no matter what odds or challenges are placed in its way. The content of this essay is a compilation of 40th anniversary essays written by the following contributors: Abe Chasnoff, David Stern, David Spevack, Ethel and Ben Rosenzweig, and Joe Dalis | MishkanTorah.MD.Education.1 | Technology in the Hebrew School classroom | MishkanTorah.MD.Education.2 | Engaging our Students in the Classroom | MishkanTorah.MD.Home.1 | Mishkan Torah, Greenbelt, MD | MishkanTorah.MD.Music.1 | Mishkan Torah Choir | MishkanTorah.MD.Ritual.1 | Chanukah Party | MishkanTorah.MD.Ritual.2 | Simchat Torah - parading in the streets of Greenbelt | MishkanTorah.MD.Ritual.4.jpg | Sisterhood Program - Annual 'Sisters in the Sukkah' | MishkanTorah.MD.TikunOlam.1 | Gleaning in Greenbelt | MishkanTorah.MD.Youth.1 | Israeli Dancing at the Greenbelt Labor Day Parade | MishkantTorah.MD.Leadership.1 | Honoring our Past Presidents |
| 439 | Jan 17 2012 - 9:41pm | Anonymous | 24.148.196.143 | Havurat Tikvah | Charlotte | NC | Jessica Schorr Saxe | 1988 | Rosh-Gwen Offerdahl Secretary-Alan Kaplan Treasurer-Frank Fleming Past Rosh-Elaine Millen | Founded in the fall of 1988, Havurat Tikvah began as a fellowship of about 15 families that celebrated holidays and some Shabbats together. We ambitiously decided to hold our own High Holy Day services in the fall of 1989. We learned and led all the services. High Holy Days have been a major highlight of our year ever since. Our occasional gatherings expanded to include monthly services, adult education programs, and retreats. We began a cooperative Sunday school and educated a generation of our children who learned liturgy, Torah, ethics and love of Judaism. Our numbers grew to include between 40 and 50 families. Since the beginning, the Havurah has had simple goals. We wanted to develop a community that was participatory, equalitarian, and that recognized the richness of Jewish life. While we thought of ourselves as breaking new ground we realized that we were part of a larger movement and affiliated with the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation in 1999. Many of us have davenned, learned, celebrated simchas, and mourned losses together for years. We welcome new families. We continue as a lay-led community committed to active participation by all. | I sent photos to Beverly Vitek | |||||||||||||||||||
| 440 | Jan 17 2012 - 10:47pm | Anonymous | 76.89.71.30 | Congregation Dor Hadash | San Diego | CA | Susan Levine | 1983 | Steve Florman, President Dave Wertlieb, 1st Vice President Cynthia Sistek-Chandler, 2nd Vice President Marilyn Scheininger, Treasurer Anita Peterson, Secretary Marcia Berneger, Trustee Max Greene, Student Trustee Philip Haness, Trustee Judy Hante, Trustee Susanne Scherman, Trustee Dave Wertlieb, Past President | In 1983 Rabbi Ron Herstik and a small group of like-minded people established Congregation Dor Hadash as the first Reconstructionist presence in San Diego County as it remains to this day. Our goal was to establish a community far beyond the traditional "brick and mortar" concept and was built around havurot that would form a solid foundation for the larger centralized community. Our affiliation with the Reconstructionist movement met our need of blending tradition with an ever-changing secular world. We began meeting in members’ homes and in 1994 moved into our current space where we worship, learn and celebrate together. Our space has been enhanced by the hands of many members, from the building of our Ark, to the kitchen cabinets, to the Jerusalem-like feel of our sanctuary walls. We acquired our rescued Torah in 1986 and it is on permanent loan to us. It is from Czechoslovakia and was to be part of a Nazi museum about the extinct race of Jews. This Torah is a constant reminder that we survive. In 1989 Rabbi Herstik and founding member Andrea Glasser established a formal religious school, calling it The Gesher (Bridge) School. On November 7, 1996 Barbara Carr, teacher and Education Director, received the JRF Master Teacher award. In January 2006 the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation recognized The Gesher School as a model for Reconstructionist education. We are very proud of the ongoing commitment and involvement of our teens who serve as aides in our classrooms, are tutors, and social activists. As Congregation Dor Hadash has changed during the last 28 years, Rabbi Herstik (1983-1996), Rabbi Alexis Pearce (1996-2005), and Rabbi Yaffa-Shira Sultan (2005-2010) have helped move us along in our understanding of the Reconstructionist movement and our place in it. We continue this journey with Rabbi Yael Ridberg (2010-) as we carry on our mission to inspire exploration of Jewish spirituality and create a caring, Jewish community. | CongDorHadash.CA.Animals2011.jpg | One of the many pets that received its blessing at Dor Hadash's 2011 Blessing of the Animals | CongDorHadash.CA.dorotenu.jpg | Dorotenu Wall - Faces of our Ancestors - honoring our ancestors | CongDorHadash.CA.Filner.jpg | Congressman Bob Filner, Freedom Rider with Dr. King, was the keynote at 2012 MLKing Jr Community Learning Day | CongDorHadash.CA.teenstikkunolam.jpg | Dor Hadash teen volunteers at Jewish Family Service Hand Up Food Pantry | CongDorHadash.CA.hamentashen.jpg | Members young and not as young help bake over 3000 hamentashen! | CongDorHadash.CA.2009SocialAction.jpg | Members of Dor Hadash join the march in support of Darfur in 2009 | ||||||||
| 441 | Jan 18 2012 - 11:34am | Jennifer Glowacki | 74.92.126.138 | Open Jewish Congregation Klal Israel | Delft | The Hague, Netherlands | Jenn G :) | 2005 | President: Benjamin van den Broek Secretary: Moishe Hoeting Treasurer: Ivo Galli | The Open Jewish Congregation Klal Israël in Delft was founded at the end of 2005, to establish a warm and accepting home for all Jewish souls. The first service was held on the evening of Friday evening January 6, 2005 in the synagogue in the Koornmarkt. The Open Jewish Congregation Klal Israël has been affiliated with the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation since November 2009. Participation in our activities is open to anyone who feels Jewish, is Jewish or wants to be Jewish: we do not ask any interested participant about his or her actual Jewish status. However, we do ask participants to respect our house rules. Klal Israël is a progressive egalitarian community, where women and men enjoy equal rights. There is no physical separation between the sexes and our style of services is respectful, free and spontaneous. Our siddurim – prayer books – contain Hebrew text as well as a phonetic transcription and a translation in Dutch. See menu on the left, under ‘Tefilla’. The Friday evening service (Kabbalat Shabbat) lasts 55 minutes, and the Saturday morning service lasts (Shacharit) 80 minutes. At the end of the Friday night service there is an informal get together to foster a greater community spirit. The Saturday morning service is followed by a Torah study session for members only. | KlalIsrael.Netherlands.Exterior.gif | Our Synagogue | ||||||||||||||||||
| 442 | Jan 18 2012 - 11:46am | Jennifer Glowacki | 74.92.126.138 | Bejt Simcha | Prague | Czech Republic | Jenn G :) | 1980 | Bejt Simcha is a Jewish liberal community in Prague, Czech Republic, gathering Jews and people with a friendly relationship towards Jews. Bejt Simcha is a member of the European Region of the World Union for Progressive Judaism (EUPJ) and an associated member of the Federation of the Jewish Communities in the Czech Republic and the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation (JRF). Our community, as an association, consists of members and members of The Club of Friends (non-Jewish partners of the members and others). At present it has about 150 members. Since Autumn 2001 Bejt Simcha has been publishing a monthly magazine „Maskil“ which is distributed to all the Jewish communities and other institutions all over the Czech Republic (and partially abroad, too). Bejt Simcha is also the first European affiliate of Jewish Reconstructionist Federation. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 443 | Jan 18 2012 - 12:04pm | Jennifer Glowacki | 74.92.126.138 | Ezra-Habonim, the Niles Township Jewish Congregation of Chicagoland | Skokie | IL | Jenn G :) | President: Joel Wax | Conservative/ Reconstructionist synagogue serving the spiritual, religious, educational, and social needs of those who are seeking a special place. Are you looking for a wonderful Chicago Jewish Experience? Check out our fast growing, historic synagogue. Through competent leadership and innovative programming, we aim to attract and retain members in all age groups. We take pride in our long and continuing history of egalitarian participation in all aspects of ritual activity, and in our being a warm, caring, supportive community. We are committed to educating our children with a comprehensive Hebrew language and Jewish learning program. No less important is our educational commitment to families and adults of all ages. Who we are and what we value can be distinguished by our dedication to: 1. Offering a progressive philosophy evolving from a traditional Judaic context. 2. Accepting the individuality of our members in their personal practice of Judaism and encouraging the continuing development of their Jewish potential 3. Having clergy that are active and involved, inspiring in their knowledge, and responsive to the varied needs of our members 4. Ensuring the survival of the Jewish people by protecting tradition while considering the spiritual needs, morals, and ethics of a new century 5. Building a center for Jewish study and family life for the greater Chicago area 6. Providing a full-service synagogue to our members and to the community at large What We Offer: * Extensive Adult study classes * Two days a week Religious School, K -10th grade * Library and museum * Dynamic, caring clergy and staff * Modern yet traditional, a liberal Conservative and Reconstructionist tradition * Special holiday programs * Family activities * Singles group/Couples club/Havurot Over 4000 years, Judaism has developed a way of life that infuses our days with meaning, enlightens the individual, connects us to the Jewish people and helps us improve and enrich all humanity. By observing the mitzvote instructed by God and interpret UNIQUE: Conservative and Reconstructionist-as well as home to a Traditional Egalitarian minyon. By our dedication to these goals, we create an atmosphere of respect, openness, and trust that builds enduring fulfillment, and a closer connection to the Jewish Join us to worship, learn, find community, grow spiritually, help Judaism thrive, share in God's work. | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 444 | Jan 18 2012 - 12:14pm | Jennifer Glowacki | 74.92.126.138 | Kehillah Chadashah | Jacksonville | FL | Jenn G :) | 2010 | President: Linda Levin Vice President: Judy Zfaz Treasurer: David Levin Secretary: Michele Katz | About Us It is the mission of Kehillah Chadashah to create a kehillah (community) to worship and to learn where members have a sense of ownership and inclusivity, connecting and including our youth, family, friends and Israel. We value: • Torah and G-d • Jewish Heritage, Traditions and Rituals • Jewish Education, Spirituality and Lifelong Learning • Community, Community Involvement and Social Action • Connectivity to Each Other and to Israel • Our Youth, Families and All Generations We look forward to hearing from you! | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 445 | Jan 18 2012 - 12:16pm | Jennifer Glowacki | 74.92.126.138 | Congregation Shir Hadash | Milwaukee | WI | Jenn G :) | President: Eve Dicker Eiseman Vice President, Development: Sam Essak Vice President, Programming: Steve Alper Treasurer: Natalie Frankel Secretary: Marla Morris Kennedy Members at Large: Andrew Mishlove, Lucy Rosenberg | About Shir Hadash: A new song in Milwaukee You can learn a lot about us from our name. "Shir Hadash" means "a new song." And we do enjoy learning a new tune. That’s not just because we're a musically inclined congregation. It’s also because we find new meaning in our Jewish traditions when we learn to hear them in a new way. One of the principles of Reconstructionist Judaism is inclusiveness. Everyone is welcome. Factors such as race, sexual orientation, or a non-Jewish partner play no role in whether you are accepted at Shir Hadash. Our congregation is made up of a diverse population, and such differences contribute to the strength and vitality of our community. Our diversity makes us who we are. Shir Hadash services are participatory, egalitarian, creative and warmly spiritual. Because we are a modest-sized congregation, you will find you are personally welcomed, and never just a face in a crowd. Each month, we typically offer three Friday night services (including one family-oriented potluck Shabbat), three Saturday morning minyans and one Saturday morning Family Shabbat service, as well as observing all the holidays. We also offer a a challenging array of adult education classes and a Rosh Hodesh women’s group, and we participate in a variety of social justice initiatives. Our dynamic and growing school provides an exciting new way of educating our children, and we offer additional instruction for children studying for b’not mitzvah at Shir Hadash. Our mission statement sums it up: “Congregation Shir Hadash provides an inclusive Jewish community for worship, study and social action. We respect traditions while allowing freedom to find personal meaning in an enduring Jewish culture.” Shabbat Community A place to belong As our congregation developed, we felt the need for a place to go when we needed support and a sense of community. This is what led to the creation of our Shabbat Community. Shabbat Community provides a regular Shabbat morning activity that is open to all Shir Hadash members. What goes on there depends on who is there and what we feel we need that day. We talk, we pray, we sing and we learn Torah. We start at 10 a.m. (on each Shabbat morning when a regular Shabbat or holiday service or Family Education class is not scheduled) and end with Kiddush. All are welcome! | ShirHadash.WI.logo.gif | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 446 | Jan 18 2012 - 1:01pm | Jennifer Glowacki | 74.92.126.138 | Temple Israel | Duluth | MN | Jenn G :) | President: Neil Glazman Vice President: Chris King Treasurer: Sheryl Grana Secretary: David Siegler | “Temple Israel is a welcoming and vibrant center of Jewish life for our region, l’dor vador... from generation to generation” Temple Israel has served northeastern Minnesota for 120 years as a Jewish social, religious, cultural and educational center. Welcome. You are one of our distinguished visitors! Our congregation includes people from traditional Jewish backgrounds, interfaith families, and people with little or no previous Jewish learning or experience. Our membership includes families, couples, and singles; children and elders; Jews by birth and Jews by choice (or still choosing). We value and seek to include everyone who shares our commitment to living and learning about compassionate, ethical Judaism regardless of age, marital status, income level, sexual orientation, gender identity, race or disability. | TempleIsrael.Duluth.MN.Service.jpg | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 447 | Jan 18 2012 - 7:30pm | Anonymous | 108.46.195.15 | Bet Am Shalom Synagogue | White Plains | New York | Beth Nash | 1956 | Rabbi Lester Bronstein Cantor Benjie Ellen Schiller Robin Rattner, Executive Director Abby Reiken, Education Director Terri Simon, President Richard Haimowitz, Board Chair | Bet Am Shalom is a place of prayer where individuals with varied spiritual goals and leanings find a comfortable home; it is a place of creative education and meaningful study for children and adults; and it is a place of gathering, where we connect with others through social, communal and religious activities. The congregation provides support in times of illness or mourning, ritual and life cycle events, social action, programs and scholarly lectures, family learning, musical performances, the arts and all the endeavors that build and sustain a sacred community. | BetAmShalom.NY.Education(1).jpg | Two students in the adult b'nai mitzvah class with their teachers, who are fellow congregants | BetAmShalom.NY.Education(2).jpg | Hebrew School students unroll the Torah with Rabbi Bronstein | BetAmShalom.NY.Rituals.jpg | Father and daughter celebrating in our Sukkah | BetAmShalom.NY.Program.jpg | Dancing at our annual Women's Seder | BetAmShalom.NY.Youth.jpg | Teens helped children from the Elm Street Youth Center cook the vegetables they had grown | BetAmShalom.NY.TikkunOlam.jpg | Families participated in the Elm Street Harvest luncheon | ||||||||
| 461 | Jan 30 2012 - 6:54pm | Anonymous | 75.25.142.77 | Or Zarua: Reconstructionist Havurah of the Easty Bay | Berkeley | CA | Emily Galpern | 2004 | Emily Galpern, President Jeff Burack, Treasurer Carol Caine: Secretary Board Members: Ross Andelman, Ann Lopata, Sara Sarasohn | Or Zarua is a community of families and individuals striving to build a welcoming, intimate, progressive, and spiritual Jewish community that embraces Jewish tradition. We gather monthly for member-led Shabbat services, as well as for holidays, simchas, and study. Our services are characterized by spirited singing, thoughtful discussion, and a participatory spirit. We celebrate diversity in our community, including LGBTQI people, singles, people with partners from other faiths, and people or color. Children are encouraged to participate in the services. Free childcare is available at all services and most events. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 462 | Jan 31 2012 - 12:36pm | Anonymous | 74.92.126.138 | Kehillat Israel | Pacific Pailsades | CA | Michael Robinson | 1950 | Kathleen Rawson President Moira Tenzer Advisor to the President Miriam Bookey VP Synagogue Services Jessica Dishell VP Education Robert Resnick VP Finance Angela Milstein VP Strategic Planning / Special Projects Lani Farar Early Childhood Education Nancy Handler Religious School Education Rick Nasch Fund Raising Michael Rosen Treasurer Rosanne Ziering Jewish Community Liaison Stephanie Kerley Schwartz Facilities, Arts and Design Bert Kleinman Religious Practices Heidi Katz Leadership Development Steven Lewis Communications Rachael Jeck Human Resources Pamela Solomon Youth Activities Steve Gomer Jewish Learning Initiative Laura Diamond Tikkun Olam Jill Leanse Board Secretary Richard Klein Membership Acquisition and Integration Cindy Freedland Membership Engagement Mark Miller Development . Rabbi, Steven Carr Reuben Rabbi,Amy Bernstein Cantor, Chaim Frenkel Executive Director, Marca Gay | Our Mission Statement Kehillat Israel, a Reconstructionist Congregation, is an inclusive spiritual Jewish community, providing a warm, nurturing environment where we pray, learn, educate, and perpetuate Torah and Jewish values, while serving the greater community. .Kehillat Israel's History In 1950 a small group of young Jewish people in Pacific Palisades were seeking a community with their fellow Jews and lovingly planted the first seed that would blossom and grow into Kehillat Israel. Under the spiritual leadership of our Founding Rabbi, Abraham Winokur z”l, KI was first called “The Jewish Community of Pacific Palisades,” then “The Jewish Congregation of Pacific Palisades” (JCPP), then “Kehillath Israel” and finally “Kehillat Israel” in keeping with the modern Hebrew pronunciation. By the time Kehillat Israel had reached nearly 400 families over 15 years ago, we had outgrown our old facility and the community responded by building our new, beautiful synagogue facility which was dedicated on October 26, 1997. Since that time we have more than doubled to over 1,000 diverse households representing all walks of life and a wide variety of Jewish and non-Jewish backgrounds. Through it all we have strived to maintain that same atmosphere of warmth, caring and community that inspired those early members to create the KI we love. |