Kesher Israel Congregation-Georgetown Synagogue

How do you review a synagogue? Here goes:
The good: Kesher has a really nice building (small, intimate, cozy). It is located well, right near the Georgetown scene. I’ve never been too regular, but, I know from their announcements that there’s a wide variety of classes and events to be involved with. A lot of young people (20s, 30s) go to Kesher and some of them are friendly. DC is a transitory community, so there’s usually new friends to make. There’s a weekly kiddush after lunch, so socializing is encouraged. For new people to DC, Kesher offers a way to become part of the community. Religiously, Kesher falls within Modern Orthodox. Women do not participate in services, but are able to be active members of the shul. There is a women’s «study group» that meets regularly.
The middle: First, if you’re looking for egalitarian, look elsewhere. The women’s «study group» is fashioned like a prayer group (with a torah reading) but does much to emphasize that it is not one (such as changing prayers for the torah). Some like it, but a true egalitarian probably won’t. Second, the rabbi has very strong opinions and is not afraid to express them. The rabbi is also heavily involved in Jewish politics. This could be good or bad depending on how you feel. Third, expect lots of speeches during shabbat prayer. If you like your prayers short and sweet, this is not the place for you.
The bad: I mentioned that some people are friendly. Unfortunately, some people are not. I don’t want to point to any specific person, but I think that some of those on the top of the synaguge hierarchy are more «cliqueish» than friendly and don’t emphasize the importance of being welcoming to newcomers. I’ve heard from a number of people new to Kesher that the atmosphere can be downright insulting at times. Many a person has tried Kesher only to go elsewhere because of the general snobbery they’ve encountered.
Moral: Give it a try, make your own decision. If you’re looking for a community, make sure to check it out first before signing a lease in the area.

I’m not unbiased having participated in the synagogue for a long time, but it is an amalgam of people, a rich offering of programs, a warm and welcoming population and an intellectual atmosphere.