We are Kehilat Be'erot, a religious partnership Jewish community, uniquely interweaving tradition and renewal in Be'er Sheva, Israel. We offer prayer services on Shabbatot and holidays, that are open and welcoming to families, individuals, and visitors. In addition, we provide and support various educational enrichment programs for all ages in our local neighborhood. Our kehilah serves as a bridge between old and new, pouring Jewish meaning into urban life here in Southern Israel.
We are turning to you for support so that we can continue to grow our community and expand our programming. In addition to limited funding from the local municipality, as well as our own internal fundraising efforts, we need your help!
Over the past 7 years we’ve grown into a thriving and active 40-family community; we celebrate happy occasions together as a community, and we support one another in times of need. Our presence in Be’er Sheva has been the deciding factor for close to 20 families who have chosen to move to the city over the last few years, and has encouraged and enabled many more to stay. We have become a home away from home for both Olim (immigrants) and for native Israelis whose families do not live in the Negev.
Community Life
Tfillah - Prayer Services
Each Shabbat we conduct prayer services through which both men and women take an active part in leading the tfillah in accordance with Halacha (Jewish law). Children are
integrated into various parts of the services and enjoy their own special tfillah program as well. Holidays are celebrated on a community level with emphasis on a lively tfillah, childrens activities, and social events, such as community meals, trips, and special musical guests to enhance tfillot.
Shiurim - Jewish Learning
Classes are given on a monthly basis, on various relevant topics. These shiurim are presented by members of our community, or by guest scholars whom we invite to join us
for shabbat.
Social Action in Be’er Sheva
Tzaharon - After School Program
This past year, we began a pilot after school program at the local mamlachti dati (religious public) day school, Netivei Am. The curriculum for the program is built on our
community’s commitment to values such as creativity, critical thinking, discovery and experiential learning. We explore these topics through Jewish artwork, Beit Midrash study, community gardening, and parent-run workshops. Seeing the impact this program has had in just one short year has inspired us to make sure it continues. This coming year, we would like to expand and enhance this program.
Bat Mitzvah Program
Last year, we initiated a Bat Mitzvah program. In this program, mothers and daughters meet to study, discuss, and create artwork connected to great women in Jewish history.
In addition to exposing the participants to female role models, the content encourages both the girls and women to see themselves as a continuation of this heritage. We also offer the opportunity for families to consult with one of our community members to design a ritual or ceremony unique for their family. With the proper funding, we aim to expand our program to provide a meaningful Bat Mitzva experience to more families within the greater community.
Community Garden
In 2013, we established a community garden transforming a neglected school property into a beautiful outdoor space. The garden has since served as a platform to share Jewish values and create a learning environment that encourages participation and teamwork. The garden provides an outlet for students to learn Torah through agriculturally centered mitzvot while staying in a safe space during after school hours.
Our community has already had such an impact on Be’er Sheva, both in terms of providing a welcoming, warm kehilah for individuals and families to join on Shabbatot and holidays, and also in working to enhance our local neighborhood. But we have so much more to give! Your support will help Kehilat Be’erot continue to uplift the lives of so many people. We have set important goals for the upcoming year, but we can’t achieve them without your help - Please donate today!
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