Havurot
About Havurot
The word “havurah” comes from the Hebrew word “haver” meaning “friend.” At Shir Hadash a havurah is a group of approximately 5-10 families or 10-20 individuals who join together to enrich their lives and to reinforce the spirit of Judaism in themselves and in their children.
- Get matched with a Havurah that is a good fit for you by completing the Havurah Interest Form!
Each havurah becomes a small community of congregants who meet in one another's homes to socialize and celebrate Jewish life together. The havurot do not replace other events of the shul, but instead they supplement and support the social, religious and intellectual activities of the synagogue.
A havurah may plan activities such as a potluck dinner, a Purim party, building a sukkah in a member’s backyard, conducting a Havdallah service, joining together for a camping weekend, or holding a Havurah Seder or Hanukkah party.
Havurot provide an excellent opportunity to become more closely acquainted with a small subsection of the temple!
How do I join?
To join a havurah or learn more about this wonderful way to socialize with fellow congregants, please fill out the Havurah Interest Form online. Upon receiving your request the temple’s havurah liaison will work with your family and individual havurot to identify a match.
For more information please contact the synagogue office at (408) 358-1751 or email the board engagement leader.
Who runs the Havurah?
Each havurah is responsible for organizing and carrying out its own gatherings. This enables the group to plan events that interest them the most at a frequency that works best for their schedules. Typically, havurah members take turns planning and hosting gatherings.
How does the synagogue help new havurot to form?
The board engagement leader or a member of the Shir Hadash staff review havurah applicants and assigns interested congregants to havurah groups with similar interests and goals. The rabbis and cantor may be available to facilitate special programs, and events may occasionally be held at the synagogue. Representatives from each havurah also meet regularly to share best practices among the groups.