Kehilat Ofir – An Egalitarian Israeli Jewish Community, Led by Rabbi and MK Gilad Kariv

For the past 3 years, Kehilat Ofir has been a home for Israeli, liberal and egalitarian Judaism — a Judaism without barriers or separation. There are moments in the Jewish calendar — on the eve of Yom Kippur, when planning a Bat or Bar Mitzvah ceremony that feels right for your family, or just before Shabbat begins — when many of us look for a Judaism that feels like home: Israeli, liberal and egalitarian; open and welcoming; without barriers or separation. Kehilat Ofir is exactly that kind of space, in the heart of Giv’atayim. We are a diverse, multigenerational community choosing to shape our Jewish lives in a spirit of freedom, mutual acceptance, and inspired by the values of Israel’s Declaration of Independence. At Kehilat Ofir, families and individuals of every age, background and gender sit together. Everyone has a place, and everyone is invited to take part in shaping this community. The community is led with dedication, on a fully voluntary basis, by Rabbi and Member of Knesset Gilad Kariv. image image image Photos to break up longer sections of text Kehilat Ofir welcomes everyone to take part in our activities: • Kabbalat Shabbat services, including special activities for children of different ages • Jewish holidays and festivals • Life-cycle ceremonies — including B’nei and B’not Mitzvah, welcoming new babies, participation in mourning rituals, and more — tailored to the needs and values of each individual and family • Beit Midrash study programs exploring Jewish texts and Israeli culture • Social and cultural activities, including tours, outings, music and more • Activities and programs for children and teenagers In our community, the sound of children playing and laughing is not considered a disturbance — even during prayer. At Kehilat Ofir, you can come exactly as you are, whenever it feels right for you. Your support will help ensure the growth of a strong, Israeli, liberal and egalitarian Judaism in Giv’atayim and the surrounding areaBecome part of our journey. Even if you do not join us every Shabbat, and even if you come only on Yom Kippur, your contribution makes all of this possible. Unlike Orthodox communities, liberal Jewish communities receive very little public financial support. Much of our work is based on volunteer efforts, but musical services, lectures, educational programs and activities for adults and children all require financial resources. A donation to Kehilat Ofir helps ensure the continued growth of a strong, Israeli, liberal and egalitarian Jewish presence in our city.To sustain our activities and expand them for the benefit of all Giv’atayim residents, we need your support.