Poltava: Our Sister Congregation In Ukraine

The Ukrainian crisis on the Eastern Front has impacted Congregation Beth Am of Poltava, Ukraine. People are fleeing, and find comfort and community with our friends in Poltava. Émigrés learn what progressive Judaism is about and discover (or rediscover) a powerful Judaism that welcomes the stranger to celebrate Shabbat, Passover, Purim and other Jewish holidays, with creative programming and joy. People are passing through Poltava for an interim stay as many migrate to Israel or other safer environs.

Being Jewish in Ukraine is not easy, as discrimination is rampant and operational funds are almost non-existent. Donations collected by the Poltava Committee, including a portion of Beth Am Member contributions to the World Union for Progressive Judaism (WUPJ), support religious and educational programs. Funds are also distributed to the WUPJ for support of the WUPJs rabbinic studies program in Moscow that begins the process of educating the next generation of rabbis in the Former Soviet Union. This is a ground breaking endeavor for the Russian government and the WUPJ.

The Poltava Committee meets regularly to plan fundraisers, such as our popular home-cooked Shabbat Dinners after services. The committee also hosts an annual Trivia Night in February that is fun for the whole family. Other events include member-hosted dinners and musical events that entertain and do a mitzvah by supporting our friends across the ocean.

Please consider making a donation to the Poltava Fund to help us carry out our vision.