Founded in 1997, Chavurah Hei is currently composed of six families. Members range in age from five to 70+. The chavurah meets twice monthly in members' homes to celebrate the Shabbat, to discuss various aspects of Jewish life, and to meditate, sing and eat together. We arrange special programs for our children built around creative crafts or simple playlets based on Jewish themes. Sometimes these activities involve the parents; sometimes they are separate from the parents’ program.

 

            Recent events we have enjoyed include the building of a sukkah in which we shared a potluck dinner under the autumn skies; the heartfelt Bar Mitsvah celebration of one of our members in his parents’ spacious backyard; and a jubilant Chanukah celebration featuring the lighting of each family's own Chanukah menorah and a visit by "Honi", a sage of old who, in full regalia, re-enacted for the children the story of the holiday.

 

            Our chavurah is also engaged in community events. We participate in an ongoing Shir Neshamah project of  preparing and serving meals to the homeless. Also, we organize and host an annual Shir Neshamah celebration of Shavu’ot outdoors on Artist's Point in Mt. Diablo State Park.