Description
Background
Starting as a small chavurah in 1980, Congregation Kol Shalom evolved into its present form as an affiliated congregation of the Reform Movement (Union of American Hebrew Congregations/UAHC) in December 1998. We currently have a membership of about 100 families and individuals of diverse ages, backgrounds, and experiences.
VISION STATEMENT
Congregation Kol Shalom is a community of families in northern Kitsap County who are dedicated to worshiping as Reform Jews. The Congregation's goal is to be open and inclusive, consistent with the fundamental tenets of Reform Judaism. Our goal is for each service and event we hold to project a warm environment where every person feels welcome and a part of the Congregation. This Statement sets forth in broad terms our goals and aspirations as a Congregation and as members of the larger Jewish community in this region. Congregation Kol Shalom has three primary purposes. First, we want to provide an environment for Jews to come together to worship and enjoy one another's company. Second, we want to educate our children so that they understand and embrace the religious and historical significance of being a Jew. Third, we want to join one another in celebrating joyous occasions and support one another in times of sadness.
WORSHIP
Shabbat and holiday services are led by Rabbi Darío Feiguin. Shabbat services are to be joyous celebrations in keeping with the spirit of Shabbat and Reform Judaism. All of our services are conducted in Hebrew and English, with transliterations for most of the Hebrew portions. We encourage all of our congregants including children of all ages to attend services. We want our children to remember services as a time when they come together with other Jewish children, learn to worship, and have fun in the process.
PHYSICAL SPACE
The physical centers of Judaism are the synagogue and the home. A synagogue provides a public home to gather, study, and worship. It is a beacon to Jews looking to join with others or simply for a place of worship. Congregation Kol Shalom purchased a beautiful new home in 2005. These buildings, consisting of a spacious, light-filled sanctuary and a separate religious school building, are surrounded by gardens and trees, which encourage members and visitors to linger and enjoy the beauty of our natural environment.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Kol Shalom feels strongly about the mission of Tikkun Olam, and members engage in a variety of projects to support our community and the world. Recent projects have included support for Helpline House (diaper drive and Project Wishbone), cooking for Super Supper dinners, and providing meals and warm clothing to people experiencing homelessness in Seattle. Our school children also learn the value of tzaddakah.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Our own community relies on its membership to make it run. We have a small staff, which includes our Rabbi, Director of Religious School and Temple Administrator. Therefore, most functions are performed by volunteers. The community is led by a Board of Directors who rely on the work done by various committees. Committees include membership, mitzvah corps, religious practices, cemetery, and fundraising. Other volunteers tend the gardens, provide childcare, cook for community members in need, and organize cultural activities. No matter what your interests, we welcome your involvement!
MEMBERSHIP
Congregation Kol Shalom welcomes all who are interested in Reform Judaism to join our community. Our diverse membership includes older couples whose children are grown, younger couples who are just starting their families, many families with school-age children, widows and widowers, single parents, single adults, long-time residents of the Northwest, newcomers to the area and interfaith couples.
