Summer news in Philadelphia

The Sephardic community of Philadelphia has enjoyed a vibrant and inspiring Spring season, filled with joyful gatherings, cultural enrichment, and meaningful connections. As always, our programs have highlighted the beauty of our traditions and the warmth of our community spirit.

We began the season with a spirited Sephardic Passover services and Community Seders in April. Families gathered at Congregation Mikveh Israel for a beautiful evening seder led by Rabbi Yosef Zarneghian and Rabbi Albert Gabbai with delicious food and a packed crowd. 

In May, we hosted a series of community classes and lectures, including a special class on La Ketubah de La Lay, a famous Ladino pizmon sung for the Holiday of Shavuot, with Dr. Anabella Esperanza. On Memorial Day, we honored our fallen community members with our annual visit to our historic Mikveh Israel Cemetery, dating back to the time of the American Revolution.

As we look ahead to the end of Summer into the high holiday season, the community has an exciting lineup of events. Highlights include communal Rosh Ashana Sedarim, high holiday services and community classes, Selihot, and our monthly themed Community Shabbat dinners open to all. 

Stay updated on upcoming events through the national community newsletter La Boz Sefaradi as well as our weekly synagogue newsletter, the Mikveh Israel Record.