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Welcome to Kol Shofar

If you’re new to Kol Shofar, we’re really glad you’re here.

You don’t need to know how synagogues “work.”
You don’t need to be sure what you’re looking for.
You don’t even need to be sure this is “your place” yet.

This page is simply here to help you take a first step — at your own pace.

If you’re wondering whether you belong here

Many people come to Kol Shofar with questions like:

- We’re an interfaith family — will we feel comfortable?
- We have young kids — is this a community for our stage of life?
- We’re new to Marin — where do we begin?
- We’re curious about Jewish life, but unsure what’s next.

You’re not alone. Most people who join Kol Shofar start right where you are.

Kol Shofar is an inclusive, authentic Jewish community rooted in tradition and open to the full diversity of Jewish life today.

Wherever you are on your journey, you are welcome here.

Choose the path that fits you right now

There’s no “right” way to begin. Here are a few easy starting points many people find helpful:

🌱 Families with babies & young children

Jewish community often begins around the rhythms of family life.

You might enjoy:

- Kol Tots Playgroup — a relaxed, welcoming space for caregivers and children ages 1–3
- Grove Preschool Shabbat — a joyful, short Shabbat experience designed for preschool‑age children and their grownups
- Family Shabbat & holiday celebrations — accessible, multigenerational experiences

👉 You don’t have to be a member to start participating.

🌳 Preschool‑age children (18 months – 5 years)

The Grove Preschool at Kol Shofar is a Jewish, nature‑based preschool grounded in warmth, curiosity, and community.

Families often begin their connection to Kol Shofar through:

- A tour or information session
- A Grove Preschool Shabbat
- Community celebrations throughout the year

👉 Many Grove families take their first steps into synagogue life gradually, naturally, and on their own timeline.

🤍 Interfaith families

Many — in fact, most — Jewish families today are touched by interfaith relationships.

At Kol Shofar:

- You are wanted.
- You are valued.
- Your family belongs.

We focus on invitation, encouragement, and meaningful participation, not on “don’ts.”
You’ll find space to ask questions, explore Jewish tradition, and build a Jewish home that reflects your values.

👉 Learn more about our approach to interfaith engagement.

✨ Adults seeking community, learning, or spirituality

Some people come looking for learning.
Others for prayer, music, or reflection.
Others simply for community.

There’s room here for all of it.

You might start with:

- A Shabbat service (musical, reflective, and community centered)
- An adult learning opportunity
- A conversation with one of our clergy or staff

👉 Attending once or twice is a great way to see if Kol Shofar feels right to you.

Membership — when and if it’s right for you

Membership at Kol Shofar is about relationship and shared support, not a transaction.

We suggest a level of financial contribution that helps sustain the synagogue — and we also believe participation in Jewish life should never be a source of financial anxiety.

- Many people begin by attending programs or services first.
- Conversations about membership are personal, flexible, and confidential.
- We are always happy to talk things through.

👉 If and when you’re ready, we’ll meet you where you are.

Ready for a low‑pressure next step?

Here are a few simple ways to begin:

- Come to a service or family program
- Join a Kol Tots playgroup or Grove Preschool Shabbat
- Schedule a tour or information conversation
- Ask a question — truly anything

You’re welcome to explore quietly, or to reach out directly.
Both are completely okay.

We’re glad you found us

Kol Shofar is built on relationships — between people, across generations, and through shared moments of meaning.

We hope this page helps you find your way in.
And we hope, in time, you’ll find that this feels like home.

👉 Get in touch | Attend an upcoming program | Learn more about The Grove Preschool

Not sure where to start? You’re not alone. Send us a note — we’d love to help you find the right next step.