The term “spiritual or cultural Jew” (Yehudi shel Eretz Yisrael) describes many who may not actively practice Judaism but still feel connected to their heritage, even if only loosely. As birth rates decline and fewer traditions are passed between generations, the Diaspora continues to shrink. Judaism needs its spiritual and cultural Jews to become more engaged in Jewish community life, and Havurah Yehudim offers an approachable, meaningful, enjoyable, and impactful way to do so.

Havurah 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 community for discussion-centered holiday celebrations with some fun—whether in a home, restaurant, park, beach, or any warm, welcoming place. The same spirit extends to Shabbat and other lifecycle occasions.

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.

Havurah Yehudim was born of a few blocks’ radius in Laguna Niguel with a more than usual, yet disconnected Jewish population.  Our time together the past five years has shown a need for Havurah in this area…

  • "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

If you’re not from South Orange County CA and interested in starting a Havurah Yehudim, contact us.