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.

Shabbat and Holidays

Services

Tefillah

Community Projects

Weekly eVoice

Congregational News

Ahavas Israel Book Group

Ahavas Israel Book Group February 12, 2026, 7:00 p.m. Stranger in the Desert: A Family Story, by Jordan Salama Each of us has a family story that we believe defines us. But sometimes what we consider a powerful story turns out to be more myth than reality. This is the conundrum that Jordan Salama confronts as he shares his … Read more

Shabbat Dinner – February 20

Join us for our next Kabbalat Shabbat service and Congregational Shabbat dinner, February 20, 6:00 p.m. Cost: $25 per adult (13 and older) paid by check or cash; paid by Venmo $27$12.50 ages 4 – 12 paid by cash or check; paid by Venmo $13.50No charge for ages 3 and under $75 maximum per family if … Read more

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.

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

The Introduction to Judaism 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, you may join by zoom here. The cost … 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

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!