Shalom!Tidewater Chavurah is an independent congregation without walls involved in Jewish fellowship. The group is led by ordained Rabbi Ellen Jaffe-Gill. Our fellowship serves the Hampton Roads Jewish community. Formed in 1996,Tidewater Chavurah has been an alternative to the formality of religious institutions since its inception. We pride ourselves on being a progressive, welcoming family. The Hebrew term chavurah means “fellowship” and generally denotes a group of like-minded people who interact within a Jewish context. |
Mission and Vision
The mission of the Tidewater Chavurah is to provide a place of Jewish worship, to encourage Jewish education, to initiate Jewish family activities, and to cultivate a love and understanding of the Jewish heritage. We value a friendly, warm, supportive, and egalitarian community which welcomes all who wish to practice the Jewish traditions. We value the Torah and our Jewish heritage. We value G'milut Chasidim (Acts of Loving Kindness) and Tzedakah (Charity) for those who are in need. We value our children and families in a flexible and tolerant environment. We value growth and renewal. Lastly, we are open to the diversity of traditions throughout our Jewish communities.
We are . . .
a smaller group of folks than your average synagogue with a warm, welcoming, and family-friendly atmosphere.
willing to meet you where you are at in your journey with Judaism.
served by a wonderful female Reconstructionist Rabbi with progressive views who continuously proves to be outgoing and
willing to provide a variety of services and programming for anyone interested in Judaism.
an independent congregation that prays in the Reform tradition.
a recognized part of the larger Jewish community without the large expense or confines of the traditional synagogue.
a safe space for intercultural families, the LGBTQIA community, and spiritual seekers from all backgrounds, welcoming
anyone interested in Judaism into our family with open arms.
constantly growing and planning ahead for growth.
willing to meet you where you are at in your journey with Judaism.
served by a wonderful female Reconstructionist Rabbi with progressive views who continuously proves to be outgoing and
willing to provide a variety of services and programming for anyone interested in Judaism.
an independent congregation that prays in the Reform tradition.
a recognized part of the larger Jewish community without the large expense or confines of the traditional synagogue.
a safe space for intercultural families, the LGBTQIA community, and spiritual seekers from all backgrounds, welcoming
anyone interested in Judaism into our family with open arms.
constantly growing and planning ahead for growth.
