The Chavurah was formed in 1973 by a few families to provide an “extended family” for Jewish life in services, celebrations, education and companionship without the encumbrances of a structured congregation such as a building and paid professional functionaries.  Chavurat Hamidbar (“The Fellowship of the Desert”) is the full name of our group.  When we refer to ourselves as members of the Chavurah (“Fellowship”) we are using the abbreviated form of the noun.

Over the years, we have found a happy, dynamic, common ground. Our membership has remained fairly constant—about 80 families and singles for the past 12-13 years. Our members come from various walks of life. Ages range from young families with babies/children to grandparents and seniors, several of whose children grew up and were married in the Chavurah.