
Setting up learning programs in secular communities around Israel enabling all Jews to learn, experience and connect to Torah and Judaism.
Our Target
Our Vision

About
More than 80% of the population in Israel today define themselves as irreligious, many of whom lack basic Jewish knowledge and understanding of religion. Whereas the previous generation mostly had some connection with religion, such as grandparents or close family, the new generation is being born into a society whose only exposure to religion is through the secular media and press, usually reporting on negative aspects and fostering contempt and hatred towards all and everything religious. While many secular Israelis feel a strong Jewish identity, they lack any knowledge as to what being Jewish is and are fearful of searching for meaning and guidance in their own country.
Chevras Machzikei Hadas brings religious men from neighboring towns to sit and learn in these communities. The men who are dedicated to spending their day learning Torah create a spiritual hub within the secular community, providing opportunity for those interested in learning, finding out more and connecting with Judaism. In addition to their daily rigorous learning schedule, Kollel members actively look out for the community, providing daily or weekly shiurim, group and one on one chavrusa with adults and youth, guiding and answering all questions and support at all times, setting up activities, arranging minyanim and much more. Members of the Kollel create a positive impression, showing love and interest and connecting with people in the community which helps in changing the community mindset towards the religious.
Cost
Kollel members are paid a stipend and are provided with transportation. Kollel members are always selected from the closest religious community, so no living expenses are incurred and minimizing transportation costs. The close proximity but ability to still live in their own religious community means the Kollel members are able to give the maximum of themselves without concern and cost of relocating their families to the secular community. Many host communities over time come to appreciate the Kollel to the extent that they provide a significant contribution to the funding of the Kollel.
Shiurim
Communities
AVreichim
Benefits
- Higher quality of Torah learning and diligence with peace of mind due to distance from home.
- Active Bais Hamedresh alive with Torah learning on a daily basis attracts unconnected youth and men, old and young alike.
- Leadership experience and opportunity to step up and fill needs in the wider community.
- Creates a sense of responsibility for the host community beyond kollel duties.
- Kollel members as a group act as local rabbonim fielding the local halachic questions.
- Spark off shiurim, chavrusos and other Jewish activities for men and women.
- Support group and place to learn for individuals who are interested or begun teshuva.
- Encourages community responsibility for religious life. Ex. In Nili (evening kollel), seventy five women signed a petition to the local council requesting a mikva.
- Connects youth to good role models, constructive and positive extra curricular activities and healthy interaction.
- Low cost high impact projects – no building, living expenses etc. all activities take place in communities shul, Kollel members are from nearby communities so easily commute daily.
Programs
Shiurim in the Kollel
Lunch Shiurim and Chavrusas in local business offices.
Youth Programs
Bar Mitzva preparation
Minyanim (Prayer Services)
Siyumim, Hachnasas Sefer Torah
Mikva, Tefillin and Mezuza assistance
Activities around Chagim