The term “spiritual or cultural Jew,” (Yehudi shel Ruchani Tarbuti) describes a broad range, including those with only a quiet or occasional connection to their heritage, those with deeper feelings though no formal religious practice, and others.  As birth rates decline and fewer traditions are passed between generations, the Diaspora continues to shrink.  Judaism needs all its people active in communal life and we provide a way.

Havurah (חֲבוּרָה) comes from the Hebrew haver, meaning "friend."  We are not a temple. We do not hold regular services or provide the functions of a staffed congregation. There are no members or dues.  We simply invite you to join our mailing list and gather—in an approachable, enjoyable, meaningful way to celebrate Jewish life, ask questions, make friends, and belong—in a home, park, beach, any warm, welcoming place.

Yehudim (יְהוּדִים) is the Hebrew plural for "Jews," deriving from Jacob's son Yehudah (Judah), the namesake of the Jewish people. It embodies Hoda'ah (gratitude), Arevut (responsibility) and Kehillah (community).  Havurah Yehudim is more than a name. It reflects gratitude for being chosen to help repair a broken world (tikkun olam) and recognizes that simply being in community strengthens both the present and future of the Jewish people.

Our story is still being written.  Havurah Yehudim continues to grow—not because we set out to build an organization, but because we’re responding to a need.  What started as a small gathering of neighbors within a few blocks of one another five years ago has grown into an opportunity for others searching for the same sense of belonging that brought us together. 

  • "Our gatherings help recall my upbringing and roots in the Jewish faith."

  • "I went through a period of disillusionment with organized religion. With this group, I was still able to be involved, participating without the struggle of formal services."

  • “The service on the beach was awesome! Truly an amazing experience.”

  • "I was always so impressed by the work you put into the presentation. You did an amazing job and brought a community together."

  • "With family being so spread out, our gatherings have meant the world to me."

  • “The service was not only spiritually uplifting, but also deeply grounding. It was a special and memorable experience, and I’m so grateful to have been a part of it.”

  • “Thank you for being such a wonderful and gracious ambassador of our faith.”

  • "Your words added depth and richness to the experience. I learned a great deal and truly appreciated the insight, thoughtfulness, and meaning you brought to each occasion."

  • “The spirit of togetherness made the evening so special.”

  • “It was truly a beautiful way to welcome the new year — surrounded by the natural beauty of the ocean, the sound of the waves, and the warmth of community.”

  • "My emotions are summed up by these words: Belonging, Connection, Gratitude, Heritage, Warmth, Friendship."

  • "With our community of unaffiliated Jews, you went the extra mile to get us together to experience our holidays and feel a camaraderie among fellow Jews."

  • “We are so appreciative of your heart and your efforts to bring our community together.”

  • “You have an artful way of expressing your care, love, and community spirit. I feel blessed to be part of it.”

  • “I deeply value the harmonious bond and natural connection we share...it makes every moment together feel special.”

  • “Thank you so much for all you do to bring our community together. Your services are thoughtful, thought provoking and perfect!”

  • “The start of the New Year was so special tonight.”

  • "Being together as a group, sharing a common thread, gives me a deep sense of community and connection."

  • "If I never told you before how much it meant to me, please let me express it now. You did a wonderful thing - for all of us and especially me. Thank you."

  • “I am both humbled and in awe of your ability to bring people together at times of great need.”

Leadership

We don't have a Rabbi in the traditional sense. Instead, the organizer of our neighborhood group—and now Havurah Yehudim—has a passion for exploring Judaism and has created uplifting, unconventional services along with fun and meaningful ways to celebrate Shabbat, holidays, and other Jewish traditions.  Havurah Yehudim is community-led, so anyone who feels inspired is encouraged to organize or lead a holiday celebration, Shabbat gathering, discussion group, or any other activity that brings people together and strengthens our Jewish community.

Ways to engage

Holidays

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Shabbat

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Lifecycle

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Join our community, endless possibilities