In 1974 a small group of local families came together to observe Jewish holidays.. They were
from many different backgrounds, but they shared a desire to learn together, and to practice Judaism in a joyful and informal way They called the,selves the new Jewish Family
Chavurah, and some of the founding members are still with our group today!
Our
Chavurah or group of friends is not affiliated with any one branch of Judaism and is comprised of approximately 30 families. We have no rabbi and no formal building in which to meet. Except for modest annual dues, our expenses are small. Most of the holidays are celebrated in members' homes, and we also rent facilities for special holidays like Passover.
Each spring, our members choose a Jewish holiday for the upcoming year and help sponsor that holiday with another family or families (link to calendar page). Holidays are celebrated in creative ane relaxed wys and al;ways highlight the interests and persnalities of the individual sponsors. Help and sjupport is always availabale from experienced and knowledgeable members, so no one ever has to worry about the adequacy of his or her own Jewish background--- we are all learners! We do not, however, lead High Holiday services because most of our members attend the Hayom Services led by our founding member, Iris Jacobs
http://www.irisjacobs.com.
The Sharon Family
Chavurah is diverse and inclusive and welcomes single adults, single parent and two-parent families, interfaith families, and GLBT families. The one qualification that we share is the willingness to commit to a hands-on, do-it-yourself type of Judaism. We all need to chip in and do our part to keep our organization running smoothly and to support the families who sponsor holidays.
Even with the above commitment, the time required is minimal. We have two organizational meetings each year and we encourage members to attend as many holiday celebrations as possible. We also enjoy pure social events and retreats. However, whenever we meet, there is always warmth, friendship and food!
Currently, our
Chavurah does not have a school, but we do have capable tutors and would reopen our school should the make-up of our membership change. Our
Chavurah is flexible and reflects the needs and make-up of our membership. Currently, we have space for a few more member families. Should you have any questions about membership, please feel free to contact our present president, Lori Leiderman at
l.leiderman@verizon.net for more information.