Founded in Zichron Yaakov in 2004 by eight families seeking a welcoming, egalitarian synagogue, the Kehilla was fortunate to have Rabbi Elisha Wolfin (ordained in 2001), now our fulltime rabbi, as one of its founding members. Beginning with a Purim celebration and Friday night services, the Kehillah grew in the number of families involved and range of activities. Today the Kehilla is comprised by 220 households that pay annual dues, 120 families celebrating their Bar/t Mitzvah every year, and many others that participate in courses, enjoy the cultural events, come for counseling, or benefit from other activities of the community.
The underlying approach to participants in Kehillat Veahavta is… "Veahavta!" – a deep mutual respect and acceptance. We celebrate Judaism in a traditional manner, with a commitment to Halacha in the spirit of the Masorti Movement, while maintaining egalitarianism, and a non-judgmental approach. VISITORS ARE WELCOME!!
The four "pillars" of the Kehillah's activities are:
Synagogue: Shabbat services (Friday evenings and Saturday mornings, all Festivals) and Holiday celebrations; an extensive Bar Mitzvah program; and Tikkun Olam projects for the benefit of the greater Zichron Yaakokv area.
Community: The Kehillah is made up of native Israelis, veteran olim (immigrants) and new olim. Some Olim families chose to settle in Zichron Yaakov due to the Kehillah's existence and its willingness to help their absorption process. To enhance "community" the Kehillah provides mentoring to individuals and families new to the area, holiday celebrations, community trips and events, and community service projects. There is also a concerted, "soft-pedaled" effort to reach out to secular Israelis to offer them access to the richness, joy, and wisdom that Judaism provides.
Education: Learning through an active "Bet Midrash" - in Hebrew and in English - is one of the hallmarks of Kehillat Veahavta. A variety of courses is offered for adults, and there are monthly "Rosh Chodesh" workshops and celebrations. There is a program of activities for children, and a vibrant NOAM youth movement.
Culture: The Kehillah offers cultural events which have Jewish content; open to both members and the general public. This pillar is based on the belief that Judaism in Israel in the 21st century must include the Israeli-Zionist cultural heritage of the past hundred years.