Joining a Havurah through Temple Israel is a truly unique experience. Each Havurah is organized to include a small group of families, couples, or individuals who gather to form their own community — to socialize, celebrate Jewish holidays, and learn more about Jewish subjects of interest. Participation in a Havurah is a way to make the most of the spiritual, social, and intellectual activities provided by our congregation. Havurah membership is an extension and privilege of Temple membership; members in good standing are welcome to participate.

Click on the links below to find out more.

WHY JOIN A HAVURAH?

WHAT KIND OF THINGS DOES A HAVURAH DO?

HOW IS A HAVURAH FORMED?

WHEN AND WERE DO HAVURAH MEET?

THE CONNECTIONS LAST A LIFETIME

HOW DO I SIGN UP?

WHY JOIN A HAVURAH?

In our mobile society, we often live far from extended family and longtime friends. Busy lives keep us from connecting with people in our neighborhoods and community. Yet we yearn for the warmth and support of a close-knit community. A Havurah can provide this kind of caring and community, members celebrate each other’s joys — and comfort each other during difficult times.

WHAT KIND OF THINGS DOES A HAVURAH DO?

It’s up to you! Your Havurah can enjoy a Shabbat dinner together, do a social action project, have a Hanukkah party, study a text, or even go camping if you’re so inclined. Each Havurah determines its own activities. Temple Israel's Program Director is available to help with ideas.

HOW IS A HAVURAH FORMED?

As a general guideline, each Havurah consists of about 20 people. After receiving completed applications, the Temple's Program Director and the Havurah Chairperson do their best to match applicants with others with similar interests.

WHEN AND WHERE DOES A HAVURAH MEET?

This is entirely up to the members of each Havurah. Generally, each group meets once a month. Havurot may choose to meet more or less frequently. Some groups add additional dates so that they can attend special Temple events and services together. Meeting locations rotate among the members’ homes, or at the site of a particular activity. Members share responsibility for planning and hosting so that each is responsible for only one or two activities per year.

THE CONNECTIONS LAST A LIFETIME

Joining a Havurah is a long-term commitment. Havurot often last for years and even decades. If you are unable to commit to participating for at least one year, we encourage you to inquire about the less time intensive classes and social events that TIOH offers. See “The Observer” for the Continuing Adult Jewish Education brochure for information about these programs.

HOW DO I SIGN UP?

Click Here for our online Havurah application. Simply Complete this application and you will be contacted by the Program Director to be informed of your Havurah placement status.

Contact our Program and Communications Director, Stephanie Steingold at 323-876-8330 ext 252 or stephanies@tioh.org