What does “Shoreshim” mean and how would you describe Shoreshim?
Shoreshim, which is Hebrew for “Roots”, is a chavurah, a non-affiliated, lay-led, inclusive and participatory Jewish community, largely centered in Reston, VA, but with members in neighboring communities. Our members include interfaith families, who bring to the Shoreshim community a broad range of religious beliefs. It is a “Shul without walls” – we do not own or intend to own a building – and we do not have the services of a full-time Rabbi. The community succeeds through the active involvement of its members. We see this involvement as key to creating a rich spiritual and learning environment for both children and adults that helps to build community and does not tax a family’s financial resources. Thus, members plan and lead a number of religious services, and work with outside resources to assist with select services such as the High Holy Day services, some Shabbat services and other celebrations. Other Shoreshim activities include an innovative Monday Hebrew School, adult educati
