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★★★★★4 months ago
HCRJ is such a special congregation. It has a warm, intimate feel that makes everyone - whether new or longtime members - feel truly part of the community. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and there are so many great educational programs for all ages that make it easy to stay connected and keep learning.
Rabbi Gross is truly the heart of HCRJ. He has a genuine way of making every congregant feel seen and valued. His approach to interfaith relationships and his commitment to working through differences with peace and understanding are inspiring and reflect the spirit of the congregation as a whole.
Beyond services and learning, HCRJ offers plenty of volunteer opportunities and takes real pride in giving back to the community. The focus on social impact and inclusivity makes this congregation stand out as a place that not only practices faith but lives its values every day.
If you’re looking for a welcoming and meaningful Reform Jewish community in Houston, HCRJ is absolutely worth visiting.
My family was one of the oldest member families dating back to the 1960s. I was confirmed there, as was my brother. My father served as president of the congregation and mother served as head the ladies organization. We were treated with indifference when my mother died by a rabbi who had been brought to Houston by my father and had been to our home many times for dinners. He knew my parents for many years, yet he had the nerve to ask me to write her eulogy for him. At least the board was quick to answer yes to using the temple for her memorial service. I have not stepped foot in that temple since. Just a special note, we had to open the folding wall just to accommodate the crowd for both memorial services for my parents. Over the years my family gave a lot of time and money to the temple and my father oversaw the building of the "new" temple and helped design the stain glass window in the "new" temple.
