CBI Circles

“Judaism insists on our interconnectedness: our fates are bound up with one another. It is through the quality of our relationships that we make a place for God in this world.”

–Rabbi Sharon Brous

CBI Circles: Connect. Belong. Inspire

Deep, meaningful relationships are core to our Jewish experience. Our new initiative, CBI Circles, will build authentic connections in our synagogue and beyond. By participating, you help create a vibrant space to Connect, Belong and Inspire.

The Vision

Circles are intimate gatherings of 4-15 CBI members. These groups come together in homes, offices, and welcoming spaces to foster deep connections. Led by dedicated group leaders, these circles cater to diverse interests. From shared hobbies and activities, to discussions on vital life topics, we want everyone to find their tribe.

Join a CBI Circle

Active Circles are listed here, along with contact information for group leaders.
All you have to do is reach out to be connected!
We will also promote our upcoming Circle gatherings in our weekly newsletter and events page.
Don’t see a Circle that works for you? Start your own!

Our Circles

B’nei Mitzvah Parent Chat

CBI Parents of B’nei Mitzvah students connect to support and celebrate one another as their children’s simchas approach.

Culture Nerds

We love art! We love culture! Private tours of local art and culture exhibits. Irregularly scheduled and usually limited to 20 to 30 people.

From My Heart to Yours

Circle dedicated to paper crafting, especially making beautiful cards to send to loved ones and friends, as well as scrapbooking

Havdallah Dozen

Twelve people who gather regularly for Saturday night Havdallah dinner parties.

In the Reeds

Dedicated to sharing the joy of playing music together, this Circle will focus on primarily classical woodwind pieces. Participants should have their own instrument and be able to read music.

Kayak Companions

Kayak Companions — Float Your Shifl on a Riffle Circle is for folks who like to paddle on flatwater (shifl is Yiddish for boat). Kayak, canoe, stand up paddle board; whatever floats your shifl.

Kvelling Queers

Kvelling Queers: Community and connection for LGBTQ folks at all stages of life

Newish to Jewish

Jews by Choice and those exploring conversion will meet every 6-8 weeks in cozy, informal settings to share Newish to Jewish experiences.

Parashat Pinotage

Raise a glass with Parashat de Pinotage as we explore the world of wine–particularly the many spectacular offerings here in Oregon and Washington. Cheers!

Photography Fans

Calling all shutterbugs! Photography Fans is a Circle for people with any interest in photography: professional, amateur, or wanna-be.

The Schmoozer Bowl

Football season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by joining CBI’s Fantasy Football League–and maybe even get together to watch a few games!

Simcha Yoga

Join us for accessible movement, breathing, and meditation practices guided by yoga instructor Amy Liss. No prior yoga experience is necessary.

Single Parent Advisory Suggested (S.P.A.S)

Are you divorced, widowed, or a single parent by choice? Our group shares triumphs and challenges in a supportive environment.

Sky Jews

CBI Circles take flight! Whether you are a pilot, future pilot, or hung up your wings some time ago – or even (gasp) ATC! – come chat with fellow SKY JEWS.

Stages and Sages

Stages and Sages is a Circle for CBI Members sixty-five and older to connect, socialize, and have a great time

Tranquility Tribe

Tranquility Tribe is a mindful meditation Circle for those who want to learn to meditate or to deepen their meditative awareness and practice.

Write On!

All who love to write will be welcome. We can share our essays, memoirs, poetry, fiction, non-fiction, or whatever you wish in a supportive Circle of wordsmiths.

Start a CBI Circle

To start a new Circle, the prospective group leader (or leaders) should fill out the form below.
This is a simple form to capture your idea at a high level, so don’t worry if you don’t have all the details figured out.
After your form is submitted, a member of the CBI Circles Connector Steering Committee will connect with you to find time to discuss your idea and help you get it started. As leader(s), you will determine the best cadence, format and location for your group’s gatherings.
Once your Circle is established, it will be listed on the CBI website and your upcoming gatherings will be promoted in regular CBI communications.
You’ll have support as your group evolves! Our Circle Connector Steering Committee will be available, as will fellow leaders.

Name(Required)

First Last

Email(Required)

Enter Email Confirm Email

Phone(Required)

Are you a member of CBI?(Required)

Please note that CBI Circles are only open to CBI Members. If you are interested in learning more about membership, please connect with Chelsea@bethisrael-pdx.org,

Yes

Tell us About Your Circle idea(Required)

Wherever you are in the planning stages, we are here to help make your vision a reality!

What is your preferred contact method?(Required)

A member of our Circles team will get in touch shortly.

Phone Call

Text

Do you have anything else to share or ask about CBI Circles?:

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a CBI Member to join or start a Circle?

Yes. CBI Circles is an exclusive benefit of membership, designed to enhance the vibrant fabric of our community. As a member in good standing, you are part of a collective that is actively shaping our Jewish journey.

Do I have to limit my Circle to 15 people?

Not necessarily. While some Circles naturally fit smaller groups, others may accommodate more members based on their activities and purpose. Our goal is to form meaningful connections. Circle Leaders, in collaboration with the Circle Connectors Steering Committee, will determine the best size and structure to ensure an environment conducive to forming significant relationships.

What is the involvement of CBI Clergy/Staff in Circles?

Circles are primarily led by congregants and the Circle Connector Steering Committee, who are all board members, act as liaisons with CBI Staff and Clergy. While the Clergy and Staff are not directly leading these groups, they passionately support this initiative and are eager to contribute to its success.

Do Circles gatherings need to be held on the CBI campus?

No, they can be anywhere! Gatherings may take place on or off campus, in private homes, or public venues. It’s up to each Circle’s leader and members to decide, and this can evolve over time.

Is there a cost to join Circles?

Joining is free for CBI Members, but some activities, such as dining out or attending theatre, may have shared costs among group members.

Will my information and discussions within Circles remain private?

Yes, your privacy is our priority. All personal information is securely managed within CBI’s infrastructure. What’s shared in Circles stays within the group and our community, ensuring a trusted and confidential environment.

Is it appropriate to use CBI Circles for business promotion?

Our Circles are spaces for connection and growth, not for business solicitation or sales. However, Circles with a business or networking focus can naturally involve sharing knowledge and resources to support each other’s professional journeys. We maintain a firm policy against direct solicitation, sales pitches, or multi-level marketing within any Circle. This ensures that all members feel comfortable and valued, focusing on mutual support rather than business transactions.