Congregation Bet Haverim Atlanta: A Vibrant Jewish Community for All
Introduction:
Congregation Bet Haverim (CBH) is a thriving Jewish community in Atlanta, Georgia, that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and walks of life. CBH is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can feel a sense of belonging and connection.
History and Mission:
CBH was founded in 1981 by a group of Jewish families seeking a warm and welcoming congregation. Since then, CBH has grown into a vibrant and diverse community of over 1,000 households. Its mission is to provide a spiritual home for all Jews, regardless of age, affiliation, or background.
Core Values:
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Inclusivity: CBH believes that everyone is welcome, regardless of their religious background, gender, sexual orientation, or race.
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Community: CBH fosters a strong sense of community through social events, educational programs, and volunteer opportunities.
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Education: CBH places great emphasis on Jewish education for all ages, offering a wide range of classes and workshops.
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Social Justice: CBH is committed to making a positive impact on the world by supporting social justice causes and engaging in community service.
Programs and Services:
CBH offers a comprehensive range of programs and services to meet the diverse needs of its members:
Religious Life:
- Weekly Shabbat services
- High Holiday services
- Holiday celebrations
- Rituals and ceremonies
Education:
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Religious School: Jewish education for children from kindergarten through 12th grade
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Adult Education: Classes on Jewish history, culture, and spirituality
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Youth Groups: Programs for youth of all ages, including BBYO and NFTY
Social Events:
- Community dinners
- Congregational outings
- Social action projects
Social Justice:
- Partnerships with local organizations
- Support for social justice causes
- Volunteer opportunities
Leadership and Governance:
CBH is governed by a lay board of directors, which is elected by the congregation. The board provides strategic direction for the congregation and oversees its operations. CBH also has a professional staff led by Rabbi David Brear and Executive Director Susan Schorr.
Impact and Recognition:
CBH has a significant impact on the Atlanta Jewish community and beyond. It has been recognized for its:
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Inclusivity: CBH has received numerous awards for its welcoming and inclusive environment.
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Education: CBH's religious school is consistently ranked among the best in the country.
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Social Justice: CBH's social justice efforts have received national recognition.
Benefits of Joining CBH:
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Sense of belonging: CBH provides a welcoming and supportive community where you can feel connected to others.
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Jewish identity: CBH helps you explore and deepen your Jewish identity through its educational programs and religious services.
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Jewish education: CBH offers a wide range of educational opportunities for all ages, from children to adults.
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Social engagement: CBH hosts a variety of social events and volunteer opportunities that allow you to connect with others.
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Making a difference: CBH empowers you to make a positive impact on the world through its social justice initiatives.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
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Assuming you won't fit in: CBH is extremely welcoming and inclusive, so don't hesitate to reach out even if you're new to Judaism or from a different background.
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Thinking you need to be a certain type of person: CBH embraces diversity and welcomes people from all walks of life. There's no need to change who you are to fit in.
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Getting discouraged if you don't get involved right away: It takes time to find your place in a new community. Be patient and attend events and classes to connect with others and discover your interests.
Why CBH Matters:
CBH provides a vital space for Jews of all backgrounds to come together, learn, grow, and give back to the community. By joining CBH:
- You become part of a supportive and inclusive Jewish community.
- You gain access to a wealth of Jewish educational resources and experiences.
- You have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the world.
Call to Action:
If you're looking for a vibrant and welcoming Jewish community in Atlanta, we invite you to join Congregation Bet Haverim. Visit our website at www.bet-haverim.org to learn more about our programs and services.
Tables:
Table 1: CBH Membership Demographics
Category |
Percentage |
Families with children |
40% |
Singles |
30% |
Empty nesters |
20% |
Interfaith couples |
10% |
Table 2: CBH Program Participation
Program |
Number of Participants |
Religious School |
250 |
Adult Education |
100 |
Youth Groups |
75 |
Social Justice Projects |
50 |
Table 3: CBH Social Justice Initiatives
Initiative |
Partner Organization |
Food pantry support |
Atlanta Community Food Bank |
Refugee assistance |
Jewish Family & Career Services |
Environmental advocacy |
Sierra Club |