Kol Tzedek started as a small but dedicated group of individuals committed to Jewish rebirth in West Philadelphia, a neighborhood that has been without a synagogue for many years. It has blossomed into a vibrant community that welcomes people with a range of viewpoints on Jewish culture and practice. As a former chair of programming on Kol Tzedek's board, I've seen how a youthful exuberance and willingness to experiment has blended with interest in the Jewish past to create an organization that appeals young people and young families and serves the urban setting perfectly. It's truly gratifying to see how attendance has grown at services, educational programs, and social justice outreach.
I must admit I am a little biased, as a founding member of Kol Tzedek, and a longtime fixture of the board. But it is an incredible intentional community of progressives from all across the religious spectrum. Progressive in the sense that we all agree to be ourselves and to deliberate around a 21st century Judaism that meets our needs, but is informed by tradition. I had looked at other shuls before but nothing came close to what we have created in the homes, parks, and space at Calvary.