What makes Congregation Or Ami unique?
At Congregation Or Ami, we strive to be first and foremost a caring community, a second home for all who enter through our doors. That is how your synagogue should feel. We work hard to make that happen.
When you call or email Or Ami, we hope you feel lovingly cared for and warmly welcomed. When you enter our sanctuary home, we hope you are greeted in such a way that the warmth envelops you.
Who are Or Ami’s clergy?
Rabbi Paul Kipnes and Rabbi Elana Rabishaw are our clergy team. Their warmth and openness toward others and toward Jewish spirituality and tradition reflect the genuine joy they take in working together. The smiles… they are real.
Rabbi Paul joined us in our third year and leads our clergy team. Rabbi Elana is our second rabbi and oversees all of our learning programs.
How many households are part of Or Ami?
Currently, about 350 households participate regularly with us. They include individuals of all ages, two-parent families, blended families, single-parent families, seniors, and young couples.
Will I fit in?
Or Ami reflects the mosaic that is Moses’ people. Recognizing that we are all created b’tzelem Elohim (in the image of God), we welcome Jews and Jewish families of all shapes and makeups. We include individuals, couples, and families who are: multicultural, multiracial, and multiethnic; interfaith; with special needs; LGBTQ; people struggling with illness; in recovery from addictions; seeking spirituality for whatever reason. No one is more welcome at Or Ami than you! Come home to Or Ami.
I hear you prefer the term “partnership” instead of “membership.” Why?
Because in a partnership, we each bring to the communal enterprise our talents, our time, our experiences, our talents, and our presence. Like a marriage or other relationship, a partnership is more than just a co-mingling of financial assets; it is about creating a shared life. In a partnership, we work together to create a warm, welcoming, innovative, musical Jewish community.
What does my partnership bring me?
In addition to the warmth and support of a Jewish community, you receive High Holy Day tickets for your immediate family, access to awesome learning programs, summer camps and retreats, and the ability to repair the world through our extensive social action programs. Our Rabbis and congregants will be there to support you through life’s challenges and joys. You will also be supporting your synagogue.
How do I join Congregation Or Ami?
Our Operations Manager and Senior Executive Assistant, Icela Alcala, will gladly guide you through the process. Email Icela or call her (818-880-4880).
Are there forms to fill out?
Of course there are! But we have minimized the forms you need to fill out, and after your first year, it takes less and less time.
What if I can’t afford membership dues?
We have dues reductions available for anyone who needs it. Contact our Community Liaison Matthew Isaac (or call 818-880-4880) for more information. No one will be turned away due to their inability to pay.