Members come to Or Ami from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds with a wide variety of occupations, interests and philosophies. Yet we are united in making Or Ami Richmond's most active and vibrant synagogue.

Or Ami is large enough to offer a wide range of opportunities to its members, but not so large that the individual gets lost in the crowd. We depend on our membership to carry the load - so please volunteer for a committee or activity, and make your voice be heard

Creative Services

we aim to make Or Ami's worship services creative and stimulating, intellectually and spiritually. Our members, with the advice of our Rabbi as appropriate, create our worship services. This includes our High Holiday services. These creative services help members of all ages to pray, to explore theological, cultural and ethical issues, and to develop their own Judaism.

Life Cycle Events

Or Ami Life Cycle services and celebrations are special. They represent concrete expressions of creative Judaism. The wording and rituals for every life cycle event, Bar and Bat Mitzvah, baby naming and wedding are written or chosen by the individuals involved in the ceremony. They range from traditional to purely innovative. Families involved work with the Rabbi to create a service that is special to them. We have found that there is no better way to create a bond of Jewish identity for our young people than the process of a family creating and preparing a Bar or Bat Mitzvah service.

Education

Education Director: David Goldsmith - Tel: 804-740-0869 (Home)

Or Ami's active religious school provides a quality Jewish education in an interesting environment. All of the teachers are members of Or Ami and most have children in the school. The school provides an environment for creativity and learning.

Or Ami students are taught to understanf Jewish ideas and practice within a Reform Jewish framework. They are encouraged to think for themselves about all the great religious and ethical questions which have engaged Jews throughout the ages. The study of Hebrew, beginning in first grade, is an integral part of the curriculum.

Continuing education for adults is very important at Or Ami. We offer adult education classes with the Rabbi, guest speakers and other specific classes.