The Chavurah is not currently meeting due to the synagogue renovation.
The Chavurah was founded by Orthodox Feminist Beth El congregants who were looking for an intimate participatory service for their families that will follow the Orthodox rite but allow for full and equal participation of women. The Chavurah service takes place monthly in the Freedman Center Lounge according to a schedule agreed upon in advance. The modern Orthodox Koren-Sacks siddur and the Hirsch Chumash are used. At this time, there is no mechitza, families sit together, and both men and women lead the prayers and read in the Torah. Pre-bat/bar mitzvah youth read the maftir and chant the ashrei and aneyim zemirot. There is often a brief d’var Torah. At the end of the service, the Chavurah joins the Beth El community kiddush. The traditional egalitarian service is open and inviting to all, and the Chavurah is looking for new members to grow.
The next Egalitarian Chavurah Service traditionally meets once a month in the Freedman Center Lounge. If you have any questions, or if you’d like to lead or have an honor, please contact Malachi Hacohen (mhacohen@duke.edu).
For future service dates please check out our calendar of upcoming events.
