About the Narberth Havurah


Since the Narberth Havurah began in 2005, we've had many opportunities to gather together, and each time we've been left with appreciation for and excitement about our growing community. We've met in participants' homes, in Narberth church halls, and in neighborhood parks. We've had countless potluck dinners, homemade hamantashen and wonderful camaraderie.

Whatever we've done, it's been fueled by hard work, generosity, creativity and the inspiration of Rabbi Yitzhak Nates.

We've met twice each month for Friday night Shabbat services. Our 6:45 p.m. service for families with children features songs and stories that capture the kids' attention. It is followed at 7:15 by candlelighting, Kiddush and a motzi. At 7:30 we begin an adult-centered discussion. Past topics have included "The Challenges of Being an Interfaith Couple" or "God and Evolution," where we viewed and discussed the 45-minute film Paradise Lost, about Darwin's inner life and his struggles after the death of his child.

We've gathered for Tu B'Shevat seders, Kabbalah-inspired evenings during which we savored fruits, nuts and wine that represent the journey of our souls. On Yom HaShoah, we've welcomed survivors, who have told us their stories of survival and courage. At Hanukkah parties, we've danced to music provided by our informal Havurah band. And at Purim parties, we've watched an original play, and made masks, groggers and gift bags.

We've organized first-night Passover seders with Reconstructionist haggadot and potluck entrees, and High Holiday services with an afternoon lunch and tashlich ceremony at Shortridge Park.

For both community and treasury building, we had a Progressive dinner of drinking, eating and sweeting(!) in multiple Narberth homes, along with a silent auction of services offered by members - including career counseling, massage, and tennis lessons with Yitzhak.

On our first Narberth Havurah Mitzvah Day, we teamed up with N.I.C.E. to clean up the Narberth Park area. Other events have included an evening of Israeli dancing, a book club meeting (The Covenant by Naomi Ragen) and a movie night (Fierce Grace by Ram Dass).