Congregation Etz Hayim,
under the leadership of Rabbi Lia Bass, pursues the ideals of Tikkun
Olam—repair of the world. To this end we strive, both as individuals
and as an organization, to be an asset to the Arlington community and
beyond. Students in our religious school volunteer throughout the
community and contribute financially to their chosen recipients as part
of the curriculum.
Our congregation’s ongoing commitments
include a partnership with Doorways for Women, collecting food for
distribution to the Arlington Community Food Bank, joining in and
hosting interfaith services, visiting senior housing residents and
hospital patients, and participation in an annual Sukkot in Spring along
with other Jewish congregations in the area. Most recently, we have
become active participants in the ongoing effort to establish a
Northern Virginia presence of the Industrial Areas Foundation, an
organization for social justice. We have held blood drives, hosted
debates on local issues, cleaned up parks, responded to the need for
funds to build schools in Liberia, and much more. Many of our
congregants are active volunteers and we welcome the opportunity to
join their efforts. For a small community, we manage to have a
significant impact!
Our services and holiday celebrations are
open to all, regardless of one’s financial means. Our community
Passover seders, Shabbat Under the Stars, Purim Carnival, Simchat Torah
Klezmer celebration, and High Holiday services are highlights of the
year for our congregation. We welcome you to join in our observance and
celebration.