About the Den
What is the Den?
the Den offers intentional Jewish experiences co-curated with people throughout the greater DC area where people feel seen, heard, and cared for; spaces where everyone has a rabbi they can talk to, learn with, and lean on.
Everyone is welcome.
People at the Den are diverse and cover the spectrum: people who are Jewish, interfaith, multi-faith, Jewish adjacent, non-Jewish, and Jewish-curious people of all backgrounds. People at the Den include those who went to Hebrew school and those who didn’t, some are synagogue members, social justice activists, and people who are seeking spirituality and community. the Den strives to co-create truly authentic, intimate, inclusive, and radically welcoming spaces with an incredibly diverse set of people from all backgrounds.
A new model for communal belonging.
the Den is not a congregation (with or without walls). Rather, the Den fills a need in the greater communal ecosystem, working as a collaborative partner with neighboring organizations as we work to serve the needs in our community. The Den creates intentional gatherings and customized experiences in partnership with our members, providing authentic and accessible Jewish learning; a one-to-one relationship with a rabbi; and opportunities for personal growth and leadership empowerment. In our minds (and the minds of Den participants), the Den’s unique approach is the best of the best that Judaism has to offer. And we do it with you, not for you.
Be yourself.
One of the themes we hear over and over again from folks who experience the Den is that these are authentic spaces of belonging, that invite people to bring the fullest version of themselves. This enables us to deepen our connection to Judaism, develop meaningful relationships, and foster a true sense of belonging. That’s it. No strings attached.
One of the best things about the Den is the availability of the clergy and the access to pastoral care. There’s no pretext or awkwardness about it, it really feels like you’re calling up a friend.—Colin