New Members

Who Are We?

At Congregation Shaarei Kodesh, the better question is: What do we do together?

We sing. We study. We Pray. We schmooze. We eat… maybe too much. We wrestle with Torah, tradition, and today’s challenges. We build community weekly on Shabbat in our sanctuary (even if we come just for kiddish), at our tables and in our living rooms across South Florida, and in our souls. We show up for each other in times of joy and heartbreak, and together we create Jewish community in the 21st century.

We are serious Jews who don’t take ourselves too seriously.

We are a “cool shul” in a hot place – Boca Raton, Florida – and we believe Jewish life should be meaningful, spirited, and even a little unpredictable.

Most importantly, we exist to ignite the Jewish spark in each individual as we journey together as a holy Jewish community. 

Affiliated with the Conservative/Masorti movement, we are proudly inclusive and egalitarian. Whether you are single, partnered, interfaith, LGBTQ+, a lifelong learner, a first-time visitor, or someone who’s just curious – there’s a place for you here.

Come be part of the journey. Help shape it.

Become Chaverim – Join Our Community

At Congregation Shaarei Kodesh, we don’t use the word “member.”

That’s because we believe that our community is not a club you join, but a covenant you enter.

To be Chaverim (Hebrew for partner or friend) is to join a circle of people committed to something larger than themselves—a sacred community of shared purpose, mutual responsibility, and spiritual growth.

Why Should You Become Chaverim? 

At Congregation Shaarei Kodesh, we believe that Judaism thrives not through transactions, but through relationships.

We say it every Shabbat morning: “You may come here as a stranger, but you’ll leave here as a friend.” There’s no better way to experience this than by joining us for Shabbat services.

We use the word Chaver (partner or friend) intentionally. It reflects our commitment to:

• Covenantal relationships, not consumer ones
• Shared purpose, not individual perks
• Collective responsibility, not passive affiliation

Be Our Sacred Guest

There’s no rush to commit. We welcome sacred guests throughout the year. Come to a service. Join us for a delicious Kiddush lunch after Shabbat morning prayers. Sign up for our weekly newsletter, the Kodesh Konnection, or our rabbi’s weekly digital digest, Baum’s Branches, or explore a class or program that speaks to you. 

When the time feels right to become Chaverim, we will be here to welcome you with open arms and open hearts.

What You Receive as Chaverim

While Chaverim is about purpose over perks, we also offer:

• Access to our full array of spiritual, educational, and lifecycle programs
• High Holy Day seating and pastoral care
• Opportunities to learn, lead, and connect at every stage of life
• A supportive network when you need it most
• A role in shaping the future of our sacred community