Breathing New Life Into Judaism
HaNefesh: Where Every Soul Matters
" I feel like I belong because I am comfortable with my HaNefesh family and love being part of the spiritual, social and learning experiences." - Susan S
Breathing New Life Into Judaism
HaNefesh: Where Every Soul Matters
" I feel like I belong because I am comfortable with my HaNefesh family and love being part of the spiritual, social and learning experiences." - Susan S
Get to Know Us
HaNefesh is a radically inclusive Jewish community where every soul matters. Everyone is encouraged to develop and nurture a healthy spiritual life that includes learning and making a difference in our world. We are a virtual community with services, programs, and events taking place both online and occasionally in-person. We are accessible and inclusive for all who want to experience and do Jewish. HaNefesh is a proud member of the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) and is the first community of our kind within the Reform movement!
How to Engage
There are many ways to engage with HaNefesh!
We are re-invigorating Judaism for the 21st century and leading people toward more purposeful,
more connected, and more inspired lives. What that means is that we create and provide
opportunities for engagement, not just through worship services, but with intergenerational
learning opportunities, adult education classes, lifecycle events, social justice and social action
opportunities, cultural events, and other exciting opportunities to engage both online and across
the greater Orange County area. Watch this space for exciting opportunities as we grow!
“I am welcomed with warmth, when I can feel the familiarity of the rituals and the people. I feel I
belong when there is harmony in our community and acceptance for any who have a desire to
learn about Judaism or to join our community.” Diane S.
Highlights
Rabbi Heidi Cohen
Rabbi Heidi Cohen is described as being inspirational, engaging and uplifting. She cares about Judaism and creating opportunities for all to ‘do Jewish.’ Rabbi Heidi has served the Orange County Jewish community for 26 years bringing her own unique style to all lifecycle and worship events as well engaging all those who are curious to learn and experiment with Jewish living. She engages people of all ages and backgrounds with love and compassion and encourages each person to be the best soul they can be. She brings Judaism to life through song, story and boundless energy.
Jodi Kaufman, RJE Jewish Life Educator
Judaism is not only a religion reaching into the past, it is centered on embracing the future through creativity and dynamic engagement. Jodi Kaufman embodies all of this through her passion for bringing Judaism to each individual where they are in their own Jewish journey. For 28 years, Jodi has delivered high quality Jewish education across the United States. Her reputation as an outstanding educator has earned her the respect and adoration of children, adults, and colleagues. Jodi is known for her ability to make Judaism relevant and accessible to people of all ages and abilities, with a unique ability to connect with young people with special needs.
Join Us
Area Of Activity
HaNefesh in Action
Engaging hearts through community, learning, and connections.
Worship and Spirituality
Deepening faith through meaningful worship and spiritual connections.
Social Justice
Pursuing justice and equality through community-driven activism.
