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:

• Inclusivity: CBH believes that everyone is welcome, regardless of their religious background, gender, sexual orientation, or race.
• Community: CBH fosters a strong sense of community through social events, educational programs, and volunteer opportunities.
• Education: CBH places great emphasis on Jewish education for all ages, offering a wide range of classes and workshops.
• 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:

• Religious School: Jewish education for children from kindergarten through 12th grade
• Adult Education: Classes on Jewish history, culture, and spirituality
• 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:

• Inclusivity: CBH has received numerous awards for its welcoming and inclusive environment.
• Education: CBH's religious school is consistently ranked among the best in the country.
• Social Justice: CBH's social justice efforts have received national recognition.

Benefits of Joining CBH:

• Sense of belonging: CBH provides a welcoming and supportive community where you can feel connected to others.
• Jewish identity: CBH helps you explore and deepen your Jewish identity through its educational programs and religious services.
• Jewish education: CBH offers a wide range of educational opportunities for all ages, from children to adults.
• Social engagement: CBH hosts a variety of social events and volunteer opportunities that allow you to connect with others.
• Making a difference: CBH empowers you to make a positive impact on the world through its social justice initiatives.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• 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.
• 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.
• 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

Table 2: CBH Program Participation

Table 3: CBH Social Justice Initiatives