History

Kehillah of Arizona got its start in January 2008, when seven of us, all acquaintances to varying degrees, decided we wanted more from our Judaism: More understanding, more meaning, more relevance to our daily lives, and more joy. None of us had found our most recent experiences fulfilling, and we were hungry for new, different ways to explore Judaism.

We also knew we wanted Rabbi Bonnie Sharfman as our spiritual leader and teacher. All seven of us had previous, long-standing relationships with Rabbi Sharfman, and we believed her experience, scholarship, and warm heart would serve us well in our efforts to create a new Jewish home for ourselves.

After many meetings we came up with a name for ourselves and developed 18 Core Values, which we use to guide our growth and our activities. Finally, on March 3, 2008, Kehillah of Arizona incorporated as a non-profit organization.

OUR FIRST TWO YEARS

Kehillah’s first two years were filled with accomplishments and growth.
• We found a regular meeting place, New Vision Center.
• We became guardians of a Torah scroll that originates from the eastern Polish town of Siedlace.
• We established regular, bi-monthly Kabbalat Shabbat services and monthly Torah studies.
• We starting our Youth and Adult Education Programs.
• We hold a wide variety of holiday events and services and participate in ongoing social action projects.

TODAY

Kehillah is a vibrant Jewish community that continues to grow in directions determined by its members and participants. Please click through our website, attend one of our services or events, give us a call, or post a comment. We look forward to getting to know you!