Summer News - Seattle

Los Muevos Ladineros Meeting in Seattle

Seattle’s Sephardic community has been bustling with activity this Spring, hosting a wide array of educational programs, cultural events, and Sephardic activities.

At Congregation Ezra Bessaroth, Rabbi David Benchlouch has been leading enriching classes on Sephardic traditions and Torah concepts. One of the most exciting new programs is the Sephardic Pizmonim Party, where young boys and girls learn traditional Sephardic melodies in Hebrew and Ladino, while enjoying fun games and prizes. The program has been a huge hit with families and is fostering the next generation’s connection to Sephardic musical heritage. Sadly, Rabbi Benchlouch will be completing his tenure in the fall as spiritual leader of Ezra Bessaroth. We wish him well on his family’s journey back to Israel, and are now in the process of a rabbinic search for EB.

The Seattle Sephardic Network has also been making waves with its Seattle Sephardic Tours, which explore the history of the community from its early days in the historic Central District to the founding of the two Sephardic congregations. Another big hit, Los Muevos Ladineros, monthly Ladino learning sessions in partnership with the Sephardic Studies Program at the University of Washington and the American Ladino League, has continued to grow. This has been a great way for novices and expert Ladino speakers to learn and practice the language together. SSN has also launched a Young Families program, helping to connect Sephardic families with young kids together in the Greater Seattle area.

At Sephardic Bikur Holim, they have completed their rabbinic search and announced the hiring of Rabbi Yonatan Gilbert as the Congregation’s new spiritual leader, an exciting development for the community. Coupled with a major renovation to the synagogue’s social hall, and robust programming planned for the summer, there are some great things happening for the community.

Looking ahead, the community is gearing up for an exciting summer and fall line up, including festive fall Sephardic high holiday celebrations, baking sessions with the Ezra Bessaroth Ladies Auxiliary, and much more. Stay updated on all events by visiting the community websites and newsletters.