Congregation Ahavas Chesed, Mobile’s conservative synagogue, located on the beautiful Gulf Coast is made up of 130 families. The synagogue welcomes both traditional and non-traditional family units. Specifically mixed-faith couples are encouraged to experience our nurturing environment and see the support that is available. The synagogue is much more than merely a religious institution. It is the focal point for various social, educational, community, and out-reach activities. There is regular Torah study every week that is attended by Jewish and non-Jewish individuals. There is a weekly discussion group immediately preceding a brief Tuesday evening prayer service that addresses both modern day and ancient issues and conundrums. There are other educational sessions throughout the year which focus on ritual practice and broad questions such as the essence of Judaism for interested congregants and individuals from the community. Our Sisterhood and Men’s Club enrich the lives of our synagogue families and provide many activities for our members to work together on projects which support Ahavas Chesed.
Not only is our community warm and inviting, but also our Rabbi, Steven Silberman, brings the Torah to life each week with lively discussion. There is no question that goes unanswered, and the atmosphere is totally conducive to free exchange of information and ideas.
Among the many benefits of membership is the opportunity for communal study with Rabbi Silberman, our spiritual leader for 20 years. Under his direction, we have strong religious and Hebrew school programs, in which our children prepare for their Bar and Bat Mitzvahs as well as confirmations. Students enrolled in the Religious School and Hebrew School who meet the requirements are given the opportunity to attend Camp Ramah at no cost to their families. In addition, confirmation students are eligible for a scholarship to visit Israel for 5 weeks with a program organized by Young Judaea. Gan Shalom, Mobile’s only Jewish pre-school, is a loving and nurturing environment for our youngest members and is available to both Jewish and non-Jewish children.
We invite you to join us for Friday night and/or Saturday morning services and let us welcome you personally into our synagogue. Let us show you what Southern hospitality really is. We strive to personify the meaning of our name Ahavas Chesed (“loving kindness”).
Michael V. Cohen, President 2010