Chavurah Alef, Shir Neshamah’s originating chavurah, was formed in 1997 by three members of the Aquarian Minyan in Berkeley. “It’s enough with the shlep through the Caldecott Tunnel,” they said to one another. “Let’s establish a Jewish Renewal presence here in Central Contra Costa County.”  No sooner said, than done.

 

            Our chavurah consists of 9 families and considers itself complete at this time. In the course of our existence we have proudly witnessed the Bat Mitzvah of eight of our girls. The latest additions to our chavurah are recently born twins.

 

            We meet twice a month at a different family’s home for Shabbat. Our services are enlivened with music. We sing and we dance; we meditate; we laugh and play games; we discuss issues of the day. And, of course, we eat! The meal is potluck, vegetarian, and m-m-m, delicious.

 

            We have quarterly meetings – usually over Sunday brunch --  to discuss matters such as Tikkun Olam projects, High Holy Day services, group outings and special celebrations. We collect minimal dues to cover expenses in connection with such activities.

 

            Our Chavurah is truly an extended family. We support one another in times of illness, stress and grief; we share with one another the joys of healing and celebration. We join together for holiday celebrations and for outings of various sorts.

 

            We find delight in creating new, and celebrating old, traditions together. By doing so we strengthen our connectedness to each other, to our Jewishness, and to our humanity.