About Us

KAM Isaiah Israel is a thriving Reform Jewish congregation located in historic Hyde Park-Kenwood. Located just seven miles south of downtown Chicago, we draw from the greater South Side and southern suburbs as well as neighborhoods downtown. We welcome you as you are: interfaith, young children, empty nesters, mature adults, emerging adults, LGBTQ+, and anyone seeking an invigorating Jewish experience.

New to our diverse community, and looking for a place to start? Join us on Friday night or at any of our programs. All are open to the public! Check our calendar for details.

Our Vision

KAM Isaiah Israel strives to be a transformative Reform Jewish community.

Our Mission

Through intentional inclusion, KAM Isaiah Israel’s congregational family builds and strengthens our Jewish community through engaged worship, enlightened lifelong learning, and impactful social justice work.

Our Values

KAM Isaiah Israel affirms our commitment to being a pillar of the Reform Jewish community. We work to eliminate barriers so that all who seek to be part of our diverse, dynamic Jewish community are fully included in our congregational family. We work to ensure that our community is a safe, inviting, and inspirational place where all members of our family are able to pray, learn, celebrate, and connect ‐ today and into the future ‐ with a focus on:

קהילה

K’hilah – Community

We are stronger together. Our community is a network of support, belonging, and shared purpose. Each person brings unique gifts and perspectives, and together we build a sacred, caring environment where we celebrate, support, and uplift one another through all of life’s moments. In our k’hilah, we find strength, connection, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, both within our congregation and beyond.

בצלם אלהים

B’tzelem Elohim – Inclusivity

Every person is created in the Divine image. We honor the inherent dignity, worth, and beauty of each individual, embracing diversity in all its forms. Inclusivity means more than welcoming-it means ensuring everyone has access, voice, and a meaningful place in our communal life. We strive to understand and meet the needs of all, knowing that our community is enriched by every member’s presence and participation.

לימוד

Limud – Learning

Learning is a lifelong journey at the heart of Jewish life. We engage deeply with our tradition, texts, and the wisdom of our ancestors, while bringing our own questions and experiences to the table. Through study and dialogue, we grow intellectually and spiritually, drawing meaning from our heritage and from the world around us. We believe in learning that is open, critical, and inclusive of all voices.

תפילה

T’filah – Prayer

Prayer is the heartbeat of our spiritual life. Through tefillah, we connect with the Divine, express gratitude, seek guidance, and find comfort. Our prayers, whether ancient or contemporary, in Hebrew or in our own words, create sacred moments that shape our days and mark our milestones. In communal prayer, we join our voices, hopes, and dreams, building a spiritual home together

צדקה

Tz’dakah – Philanthropy

Tz’dakah is more than charity-it is justice and righteousness in action. We are called to give generously of our resources, time, and talents to support those in need and to build a more just and compassionate world. Giving is not just a personal act, but a communal responsibility, rooted in empathy and the pursuit of fairness. In giving, we receive the gift of partnership in the ongoing work of repairing the world.

תיקון עולם

Tikkun Olam – Repairing the World

We are partners in the sacred task of making the world more whole, just, and peaceful. Tikkun Olam calls us to act-through kindness, advocacy, and service-to address injustice, care for the vulnerable, and protect our planet. Whether through small daily acts or collective efforts for systemic change, we answer the call to repair what is broken and to create a better future for all.