Poltava/Odesa Committee: Supporting Our Sister Congregations
Poltava/Odesa Committee

Supporting Our Sister Congregations in Ukraine:
Congregation Beth Am of Poltava and Shirat Ha-Yam of Odesa
The Poltava/Odesa Committee supports two progressive Jewish communities in the Former Soviet Union (FSU), Congregation Beth Am of Poltava and Shirat Ha-Yam of Odesa. This is a collaborative venture under the auspices of Congregation Beth Am, Los Altos Hills and the World Union for Progressive Judaism (WUPJ).
During these trying times, our friends in Ukraine need us more than ever before. Many have had to flee their homes with nothing more than what they can carry. Others are still in Kyiv, Poltava and Odesa to fight for their freedom and democracy. Innocent people are suffering. Please visit our Crisis In Ukraine page to learn how Congregation Beth Am is taking action to make a positive difference.
Congregation Beth Am of Poltava
Various political and economic challenges have reduced the membership of Congregation Beth Am of Poltava. Congregation Beth Am of Poltava leadership has been and continues to be strong for this small but powerful community. Recently, they were able to halt construction on Poltava City land of apartment buildings that would have concealed a killing field where an atrocity had taken place. They have since planted trees in honor of the people who perished there and in celebration of Lag BaOmer.
Visit Congregation Beth Am of Poltava on:
Facebook
Shirat Ha-Yam of Odesa
Three years ago, Shirat Ha-Yam was a vibrant progressive community lead by Rabbi Juia Gris and community organizer Elena Izmailowa. There were over 200 families attending services and activities in what was a beautiful European-style city on the Black Sea. When the bombs starting, Rabbi Julia was able to bring 40 congregants with her on a harrowing ride to safety to Poland and then to Germany. Others left for locations around the
world, including USA, Poland, England, Israel, and wherever there was safety to be found. Today, about 50 families are still in Odesa, receiving the support they need from the World Union for Progressive Judaism and Congregation Beth
Am, thanks to the coordination of Elena. We provide food certificates, medicine vouchers, PowerPact, and psychological support for those who have stayed. They go online for services with Rabbi Alex Duchovny and Rabbi Julia Gris. In person, Shir Ha-Yam congregants have been able to hold seders under very trying circumstances. They also use their PowerPacts to keep up with the news of the war.
Our committee is in constant communication with Elena Izmailowa, who is working in London to financially support her family in Odesa and coordinate activities for the community in Odesa.
Visit Shirat ha-Yam Congregation Odesa on:
Facebook | YouTube
Netzer-Odesa
Netzer, the WUPJ’s Youth Group, has a very energized program that instills a progressive Jewish lifestyle. The Beth Am Poltava/Odesa Committee looks forward to help build this relationship while continuing to support our friends in Poltava.
The Poltava/Odesa Fund supports our sister congregations in Ukraine: Congregation Beth Am of Poltava and Shirat Ha-Yam of Odesa. Please consider making a gift to this fund to help us carry out our vision.
Tue, October 21 2025
29 Tishrei 5786
Community Schedule
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Wednesday ,
OctOctober 22 , 2025
Beth Am Men Book Club Reads "Fagin the Thief: A Novel" by Allison Epstein
Wednesday, Oct 22nd 4:00p to 5:30p
A thrilling reimagining of the world of Charles Dickens, as seen through the eyes of the infamous Jacob Fagin, London’s most gifted pickpocket, liar, and rogue. -
Wednesday ,
OctOctober 22 , 2025
Beth Am Women Rosh Chodesh: Cheshvan
Wednesday, Oct 22nd 7:30p to 9:15p
After the craziness of the Yamim Nora'im, the High Holy Da ys and Sukkot, it is fitting that we have a month of quiet, darkness and a time to reset, refocus, and prepare for the coming winter months. We will consider what our tradition has to say about darkness and light, and share our experiences of how we find that light in our own lives. -
Friday ,
OctOctober 24 , 2025
Israel Discussion Gatherings
Friday, Oct 24th 5:00p to 6:15p
Join with other Beth Am members every Friday before the Erev Shabbat service for time to reflect, discuss, and listen to one another as we navigate this terribly challenging time for Israel and Jews around the world. -
Friday ,
OctOctober 24 , 2025
Oneg Shabbat and Discussion with Rabbi Dr. Mikva
Friday, Oct 24th 7:30p to 8:30p
Following the Erev Shabbat service, come together to enjoy some light dessert refreshments and discussion with Rabbi Dr. Mikva. -
Saturday ,
OctOctober 25 , 2025
Good Book Cafe
Shabbat, Oct 25th 10:00a to 10:20a
Join other Torah Study participants for some discussion and schmoozing. -
Sunday ,
OctOctober 26 , 2025
"Eating for Tomorrow" Film Screening
Sunday, Oct 26th 4:00p to 6:00p
Come learn, share, and get inspired by the documentary "Eating for Tomorrow," starring Oscar-winning actress Kate Winslet, which explores the environmental impact of our food choices. It takes viewers on a global journey, highlighting the consequences of our food systems and offering a message of hope and potential solutions. -
Monday ,
OctOctober 27 , 2025
Beth Am Women In-Person Mah Jongg for Beginners Through Experienced Players
Monday, Oct 27th 12:30p to 2:00p
These sessions offer opportunities for beginner Mah Jongg players to learn the game and for experienced Mah Jongg players to play together! -
Tuesday ,
OctOctober 28 , 2025
Beth Am Men Hot Topics Breakfast
Tuesday, Oct 28th 8:00a to 9:30a
Get together with the Beth Am Men for our monthly "Hot Topics" Breakfast! A rabbi will bring a stimulating, potentially controversial article for us to discuss over breakfast. Food and beverages will be provided by Beth Am Men. -
Friday ,
OctOctober 31 , 2025
Light Dessert Oneg Shabbat, With Israeli Dancing Led by Cantor Shpall
Friday, Oct 31st 7:30p to 8:30p
Come together after Erev Shabbat services to enjoy some light dessert refreshments! Cantor Shpall will be leading some simple Israeli folk dances. The entire congregation is invited, children included! -
Saturday ,
NovNovember 1 , 2025
Good Book Cafe
Shabbat, Nov 1st 10:00a to 10:20a
Join other Torah Study participants for some discussion and schmoozing.
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Congregation Beth Am | 26790 Arastradero Road | Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 | (650) 493-4661
We strive to live as a holy community whose study and practice of Judaism inspires and challenges us to "do justice, to love kindness and to walk humbly with our God" (Micah 6:8).
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