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The Chico Havurah was formed in the summer of 2003 to give Jews in Chico an alternative to the traditional Jewish synagogue experience. Jews in this area mirror the growing diversity of Jewish communities across the nation, who come from a range of traditions and are increasingly made up of interfaith couples. What is the ideal Jewish community? How can we uniquely celebrate the power of the Shabbat? How do we-individually and collectively-know the unknowable? It is these and many other questions we are trying to answer. We will strive to do so in an atmosphere of "joyful community", study of Torah, democratic process, and enhancement of spirituality through tikkun olam by doing our part to repair the world. That is our mission statement and we are seeking congregants who share our values. Authentic democracy As a creative, inclusive Jewish community, we embrace "authentic democracy", which establishes that all major decisions made by the Chico Havurah will be decided by a vote of all members 13 years and older with each individual having a vote. Spiritual leadership Chico Havurah was formed under the spiritual guidance of Rabbi Yitzhak Nates, a Reconstructionist rabbi. This branch of Judaism honors tradition while recognizing that individuals must find personal meaning in the ways they practice the ancient wisdom of our ancestors. We continue to work collaboratively with guest rabbis to develop strong programs in learning, relationship, and social action. Membership Just as spirituality has no one definition, so does Judaism accept a wide variety of paths that lead to the Divine. Our Havurah members are diverse in belief and interests: Some individuals focus on Torah study, others on the divinity in human relationships, love of nature, meditation, and social action. We support each other as we search for a practice that enhances our lives. Services Since the fall of 2006, Chico Havurah holds Friday night services
and other events at the Congregational Church of Chico, 1190 E First
Ave. (the corner of Downing & East 1st Ave.)(map)
. We meet on the first and third Friday of every month. We
are co-sponsors (with the church) of the Shalom Free Clinic, which
is open on Sundays, 1 to 4pm. Join with us to shape a unique Jewish community! For information about Shabbat and other upcoming meetings and events, call 530.520.3946. Breaking News! The Chico Havurah has received a rescued torah! Check here for info and pictures of our torah. The Chico Havurah has a blog site. Check it out at: Check out our PIX page
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