Congregation Etz Chayim

Run for Their Lives is a global movement founded by Israelis in the Bay Area. Their mission is to raise awareness for the hostages held in Gaza. Each week, groups worldwide come together for family-friendly walks or runs lasting 18 (ח"י) minutes. Participants wear red shirts and carry flags representing the 28 nationalities of the hostages. So far there are 70+ groups across the globe, with new ones joining daily. Our Palo Alto group walks every Sunday at 12:30pm. People can join the silent WhatsApp group for location updates and to participate: https://chat.whatsapp.com/BeEgTk1MGlcDTJb6f5DqLX.

Book selections: For 12/10: Lisa Barr, A Woman on Fire For 1/14: Elizabeth Graver, Kantika (this year’s One Bay One Book selection) For 2/11: Norman Eisen, The Last Palace For 3/10: Anna Berest, The Postcard For 4/07: Naomi Ragen, An Unorthodox Match

Join us in speaking with an Israeli delegation from Kibbutz Be’eri on their mission to the United States. Hamas terrorists killed and tortured approximately 1,200 people in Israeli towns and communities on October 7, 2023. Kibbutz Be’eri suffered the biggest loss of any single village: 102 people killed — about one out of every 13 people living there. We will hear from two survivors about life on the kibbutz, the history of the place, events of October 7, the last year for the community, and the plans for the future.

Help celebrate the 20th anniversary of Etz Chayim moving into 4161 Alma St. Hear from volunteer leaders who made this move possible, sing classic Etz Chayim melodies, and dream of what we can do in our new enhanced space and outdoor pavilion come spring!

In parashat Vayera, Abraham welcomed three people to his tent and provided the next generation with the ultimate hospitality recipe. Want to know the exact recipe? All the ingredients will be in the upcoming Shabbat Mishpachah! We'll begin with group singing followed by activity time for kids 2-8 including a puppet show, yoga and art, while adults enjoy a relaxed and interactive service. Everyone comes together for an experiential Torah service. All are welcome! Please email Aliza if you plan on coming.