Adat
Reyim
Springfield, Virginia
#NC-08100-WP - Notecards
Adat Reyim
means "a gathering of neighbors," a reflection of the
congregation's strong sense of community. Founded in 1980 by a
few families that wanted a Jewish presence in the Springfield
and Burke areas, the congregation has grown to more than 275 families
in 1996.
In the spring
of 1984, Rabbi Tzvi Porath became the spiritual leader of Adat
Reyim. Services were held in Burke Presbyterian Church, and religious
school classes were held at West Springfield Elementary School.
As membership expanded, the congregation needed a new home, which
it built at 6550 Westbury Oaks Court in Springfield and moved
into during the spring of 1990.
Rabbi Bruce
Aft became Adat Reyim's first full-time rabbi in the fall of 1991.
Under his leadership, this progressive conservative congregation
provides a welcoming environment for Northern Virginia Jews by
honoring tradition and responding to modern concerns. A strong
commitment to education is reflected in the creative programming
Adat Reyim offers to all of its members Ñ children, youth, and
adults.
Adat Reyim
has succeeded in creating the caring Jewish presence sought by
its founding members. The congregation will continue to provide
a house of learning, worship, and community for its growing gathering
of neighbors.
Text
© 1996 Dianne Harrah, Drawing © 1996 Bill Harrah