Congregational Life
When do I light Shabbat candles, what’s happening this Shabbat, how can I get involved, what holidays are coming up? On this page, you will find information, announcements, and other important updates relevant to our congregation.
Congregational News
Pray and Eat! (Shabbat Lunch)
Lunch, Saturday, December 6, following services Contact Rabbi Krishef if you are are able to help him prepare the lunch on Friday morning, Rabbi@AhavasIsraelGR.org or 616-949-2840.
Annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Service
We gather together on Monday, November 25, 7:00 p.m., “Coming Together in Gratitude,” at Park Church, 10 East Park Pl. NE, and join with diverse communities around Grand Rapids to express gratitude at this season of Thanksgiving. We’ll be collecting for a new initiative for the unhoused called “The Community Day Center,” this year hosted … Read more
Junior Congregation
Please join us for a monthly Junior Congregation service, 10:45 – 11:15 a.m. (and stay for a congregation lunch following services) Singing, snacks, and friends (for children and parents)! Mark your calendars for November 1, December 6, January 10 (2nd Shabbat), February 7 (National ice cream for breakfast day!), March 7, April 18 (to avoid … Read more
Introduction to Judaism
Assuming sufficient enrollment, the class will be held in person at Congregation Ahavas Israel, 2727 Michigan St. NE, Mondays, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m., beginning in December, 2025. It is a basic overview of Jewish history, ritual, life cycle, holidays, and thought. If you cannot come in person I may be able to offer a zoom … Read more
Torah Study
Torah study, beginning Sunday, November 2, 2025, 10:15 – 11:00. Every Sunday that the United Jewish School meets, Rabbi Krishef will lead a Torah study group at Temple Emanuel. Beginners, Intermediate, Advanced, those with Hebrew skills and those without are all welcome. We’ll focus on Parashat Hashavua, the weekly Torah portion, along with the commentary … Read more
Catered, Community Shabbat Dinner, Friday, November 21
Please come celebrate Shabbat with us on Friday, November 21, catered by Marla Tulett, with a salmon entree or vegan option, along with some good wine. Kabbalat Shabbat will begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by Shabbat dinner. The cost will be $40/person online, $36 cash/check. Children 13 and under are $20/person, $18 cash/check. This dinner … Read more
Ahavas Israel Book Group
The next Ahavas Israel book group will be November 13, 2025, 7:00 p.m. Adam Unrehearsed, by Don Futterman – a National Jewish Book Awards Finalist It’s 1970: Adam Miller is twelve and entering seventh grade at a new school. His family recently, and with some suddenness, moved to a new part of Queens. He is preparing for … Read more
Movie Lovers Havurah
The Movie Lovers Havurah gathers on Zoom monthly to discuss whichever movie the group has selected. We’ve had lively discussions from November 2021 on. To join us, contact Diane Rayor at rayord@gmail.com for the link, movie of the month, and the list of past selections. Join in the fun!
Reflections on the Psalms
With gratitude to the Holy One of Blessing, I am excited to announcing the publication of Reflections on the Psalms, for sale on Amazon.
Spiritual Checkup
Make sure your spiritual life is in good health. Call or email Rabbi Krishef to schedule yours.