Chai Connect Circles

Chai Connect Circles are small, peer-led groups for Temple Chai members to connect through shared interests and life experiences. Most Circles meet monthly, and members commit to attending for at least four months to help foster meaningful relationships.

Welcome to Chai Connect Circles

Chai Connect Circles are small, peer-led groups designed to bring Temple Chai members together in deeper, more personal ways. Whether formed around a shared interest, life stage, or spiritual journey, each Circle creates a welcoming space to meet new people, build relationships, and feel more at home in our community.

Circles are open exclusively to Temple Chai members. Most meet once a month, but each group determines its own schedule and format based on the needs of its members and the guidance of its leader(s).

You’re welcome to participate in more than one Circle if you’d like!

Whether you’re looking to connect socially, spiritually, or intellectually, there’s a Circle waiting for you.

Learn about the Chai Connect Circles

  • Crafting – Unleash your creativity with crafts, from painting to pottery.

  • Club Shabbos* – This Circle is all about sharing the beauty of Shabbat with other congregants. Members meet monthly before or after services or for Havdalah, in congregants’ homes or at other locations. This is a new group, as the original Club Shabbos has reached capacity.

  • Contemplative Shabbat Shacharit – This monthly Saturday one-hour circle combines music, chanting, meditation, and Torah study comprising a full Shabbat Shacharit service. No prior experience in meditation is required.

  • Dram L’Chaim! Whisky Circle – This Circle meets to taste, learn about, and enjoy Scotch. Gatherings take place at members’ homes, local whisky bars, or tasting events.

  • Happy Hour Circle* – Raise a glass and connect! This Circle was created after Clink and Oenophiles both reached capacity. It can be shaped into whatever the group decides, meeting for lively happy hours and tastings with good drinks and great company.

  • Hiking Buddies – If you like to hike, this Circle is for you! The leader will organize a monthly group hike at one of the beautiful hiking trails in the Valley. All experience levels are welcome.

  • Let’s Talk about The Israeli/Palestinian Dilemma – Connecting with members to discuss Israel and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

  • Movie Lovers* – Movie nights, film discussions, and cinema outings.

  • Mussar Circle* – Rooted in Jewish wisdom and Mussar teachings, the group can take the form of a book discussion, topic-based conversations, or reflective sharing. It’s up to the group to shape how you grow and learn together.

  • Monthly Mitzvah/Tikkun Olam – Join fellow Temple Chai members in Tikkun Olam by organizing and participating in monthly mitzvah.

  • Social Seniors* – Join our Social Seniors group for fun, engaging opportunities to connect and share with others in a similar stage of life.
  • Walking Circle – Join fellow walkers for scenic strolls, conversation, and exploration.
  • What’s for dinner? – Seek out culinary hidden gems.
  • Writers Anonymous – Calling all creative writers! Join other members to learn, share, and explore finding your voice through writing.