Circles of Connection

For years, Temple Emanu-El's traditional Havurot program offered friendship and an extended family within our Temple community.

We've embarked on re-imagining our Havurot program. In Fall 2023, we launched Circles of Connection, a new program about connection and friendship for Temple members. These Circle groups are interest-based and centered on a theme and activity. Circles form in the Fall and Spring, with each Circle planning their own in-person events. Whether you’re 21 or 101, it’s never too late to make new Temple friends while connecting over shared interests and fun activities.

Circles of Connection Program Policy:
Participation in the Circles program and events is entirely voluntary and is only open to active members of Temple Emanu-El.

In order for each Circle to be successful, we ask that participants help in hosting events (Circles are not Meetups where there is only one host who plans all events). There may be associated costs, including transportation, etc. that is required in order to participate in a given event, and is the sole responsibility of each Circle member.

How To Join the Circles of Connection Program:
Circle sign ups occur every 6 months, in the Spring and Fall. Please check the Temple calendar for details on the next  open registration period. Note: Registration is required in order to participate in the Circles program.

Fall 2024 Circles Include: Koffee Klatch, Walking, Board Games, Gardening, Pickleball, Hidden Treasures of the Bay Area, L'Chaim and Libations, Park Playdates for Families with Young Children, 

Click here to get all the Fall 2024 Circles descriptions

 The Spring 2025 Circles will kickoff in March! Stay tuned for registration Details.

New Temple Emanu-El Members:
If you recently joined Temple Emanu-El and missed the open registration period, please contact circles@templesanjose.org with the Circle(s) that you are interested in joining. Please see below for a list of the active Circles.

Existing Temple Members:
If you are an existing Temple Emanu-El member and are interested in joining an active circle, but did not signup during the open registration period, please contact circles@templesanjose.org with the Circle(s) that you are interested in joining. We will add you to the waitlist and notify you if and when there is an opening. Otherwise, please keep an eye out for the next sign up period. Please see below for a list of the active Circles.

Current Fall 2024 Circles:  Koffee Klatch, Walking, Board Games, Gardening, Pickleball, Hidden Treasures of the Bay Area, L'Chaim and Libations, Park Playdates for Families with Young Children, 

Active Circles (closed): The following Circles are no longer part of the Spring and Fall sign up events, and are not accepting members.

“Reel Deal” Movie Club, Supper Club

​​​​Inactive Circles (closed): The following Circles have not decided to continue

Photography Club, Hiking, Poker, Movies (new), Listen to the Music

For any other questions on the Circles of Connection program, please email circles@templesanjose.org