Religious Life

Spiritual and emotional needs are given the same emphasis as physical needs at the JRC. Great importance is placed on preserving the religious and cultural traditions residents have observed all their lives.

The JRC's Religious/Cultural Coordinator and the chapel play central roles in the lives of many residents.

Activities are planned to ensure that the religious and ethical tenets of Judaism are upheld. The Religious/Cultural Coordinator develops and implements meaningful religious and cultural programming.

Residents say that they feel more at home living in an environment in which Jewish themes abound and where the cuisine is strictly kosher. On any given day at the JRC, residents are involved in religious services, holiday or Sabbath preparations, Jewish cultural presentations by visiting artists, and Jewish-themed activities.

During synagogue services, residents at all levels of physical and cognitive ability are encouraged to participate in the customary rituals. The Minyan Group, a dedicated group of volunteers, assist at religious services and act as escorts for residents who wish to attend services and special observances.

In addition to religious observances, a great deal of attention is given to cultural programming. A group meets weekly for entertainment, lectures and refreshments. Area rabbis visit to hold discussions with residents about Jewish topics, and residents enjoy outings to places with a Jewish orientation.

For our non-Jewish residents
Visiting chaplains attend to the spiritual needs of our non-Jewish residents. Christmas and Easter and holiday events are observed with special parties and entertainment. Communion is offered weekly, and non-denominational services are conducted monthly. The staff works closely with residents to assure that their spiritual needs are being met.