Lake Chapala Jewish Congregation
Lake Chapala Jewish Congregation
About LCJC
Lake Chapala Jewish Congregation began during the autumn of 2000. In September of that year, a group of 25 Jews met in a resident`s living room for the High Holy Days. Although there had been informal gatherings of local Jews for many years prior, that was our first service as a congregation. Since that time, LCJC has grown into an active, thriving Jewish center now housed in our own beautiful synagogue. On Shabbat, Friday night and Saturday, services are led by our Service Leader, and on occasion members of the congregation. In addition to these services we hold Friday night (Potluck Shabbat or Shul and a Slice), along with a host of other religious observances and social activities. For more information see our Calendar or El Shofar.
The uniqueness and richness of the synagogue congregation is partly based upon its diversity. Our members come from different backgrounds from Canada, the United States and Mexico with a variety of Jewish experiences, ranging from Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, and Reconstructionist to secular. Some are Jews-by-Choice, some are reclaiming their heritage and still others are seeking a spiritual home. We are all from far-flung places that come together in song and joy.
Our services are a mix of Hebrew and English, combining many traditional prayers with aspects of progressive Judaism. Many of the Hebrew prayers are in transliteration.
Beauty thrives here, whether you gaze at the majestic mountains, listen to the birds singing to you their melody, or feel yourself enwrapped in an embrace by your new friends, here you will find you are at home.
Welcome home.