Kedem is a progressive lay led community in Melbourne, Australia. It was established in 1994 by a diverse group of people who were interested in exploring ways to build a community and make their Jewish experience more relevant to their modern lives.

Some core values that have held the community together over its almost 30 year existence are inclusiveness, participation, egalitarianism. It's a place where
people:

• contribute to a contemporary expression of Judaism
• share a spiritual practice
• learn and grow their knowledge of Jewish thought and practice
• belong to community and mark their own life events
• ​actively support Tikkun Olam projects

It is a relaxed community where each member can contribute to its functioning. 
We are small, flexible, adaptable and eager to take on members' suggestions.
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"Kedem started its own community because we wanted to have a place that would be more intimate. We believe people grow and the community benefits through each member contributing in their own way."
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We run Shabbat services and celebrate the Chaggim. We are predominantly lay led with the assistance of visiting rabbi's on occasions.

We provide lay leadership for lifecycle events such as weddings, B'nei Mitzvah, births and funerals.

We provide opportunities to study Jewish texts in small groups led both internally and using external experts.

We provide an environment to explore Jewish culture; books, art, film, food, music, history and politics. 

We run social events, to bring people together.

We have a Caring Committee to support our members when times get tough.

We actively engage in Tikkun Olam projects.

We're more than a synagogue. We're a community looking to make Jewish life a joyful experience for everybody. We invite you to come along. We would love to meet you!

Kedem is

Warm and inclusive

A place where everyone knows your name

Contemporary

Progressive Judaism means everyone participates equally

Family friendly

Children are encouraged to look on our community as family

FAQ's

WHo attends Kedem?

Kedem attracts people who want to be part of a community.
They are friendly, creative and welcoming.

Do I need to be part of the progressive community to join?

No. 
Being progressive means that everyone sits together, all Jewish people are called to the Torah, and gender neutral language is used. If this resonates with you then come along. We have some beautiful music including playing of guitars in services.

Do you have a Rabbi?

Kedem has both Rabbinic and lay led support. On High Holydays and other times during the year services and events will have a Rabbi. Other times we are lay led which means the community leads the services / events, co-ordinated by Ruth Gross, our Jewish Life and Education Coordinator. 

Where do you meet?

For Saturday and Chaggim services we meet at The King David School, 517 Orrong Road, Armadale, Vic. 3143
For Service for the Soul, Kabbalat Shabbat and festivals we meet in private homes.

Lay led - what does that mean?

It means that members join in running things as well as participating. 
For some members this might mean bringing a fruit platter, playing guitar, writing a drash, singing or hosting a gathering.

Does lay led mean I need to do things?

No-one will make you do things! You can join without taking an active part. It’s up to you. 

I don't speak or read hebrew, is that ok? 

Of course. Songs and prayers are transliterated into English, and the tunes and musical experience can be enjoyed with or without Hebrew.

How did kedem begin?

Kedem started its own community because we wanted to have a place that is more intimate. We believe people grow and the community benefits through each member contributing in their own way.

I DON'T BELIEVE IN GOD, CAN I STILL COME?

Of course. We have many members who come because of the community, music, social interaction, because of their children or other reasons. Many people say they feel spiritual and not religious.

CAN MY NON JEWISH PARTNER COME ALONG?

Yes. Please bring them along and they will be welcomed. If you  decide to join - you can be a member and your partner can be a "Friend of Kedem."

How do i check you out?

Come along to a service, a festival or any of our activities and meet some of us. It's good to come to a few things to meet different people. Call Rosi our Executive Officer on 0414 328272 and she will put you in touch with our Membership Chair who you can chat to or contact our Kedem president Deb Absler at  [email protected]

I've got more questions, can I call someone?

Of course, call Rosi and she will direct you to the best person to answer your questions.