Jewish

The Jewish community has a strong and enthusiastic presence on campus. We are a pluralistic community; whatever your denomination (or non-denomination) you will be welcomed and included and helped to find a way to express your particular spiritual, religious and cultural observance. The JSU (Jewish Student Union) is a social, cultural and religious organization, serving the needs of MHC students interested in participation in Jewish life on campus.

Eliot House provides Kosher for Passover meals.  For more information on Kosher dining at MHC, please check out the Wilder Dining Hall on the Dining Services web site.

On-going services at Mount Holyoke include a community Shabbat service and dinner once a month at Eliot House, and weekly Friday evening gatherings for Kabbalat Shabbat.  The gatherings are led by students and by Amelia Ender, Chaplain to the College and Advisor to the Jewish Community.  We celebrate all the Jewish holidays, some on campus at our own beautiful Abbey Interfaith Sanctuary, and some together with 5 College Hillel communities at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. Additionally, we have regular cultural events, tikkun olam projects, and social gatherings.  We offer innovative programming, based on student interest, such as Rosh Hodesh gatherings, etc.  Additionally, we frequently join with other faith groups for dialogue, interchange and programs to enhance our understanding of each other. There is plenty of opportunity for learning: assuming leadership roles on the JSU Board or a committee; leading a Seder or a service; learning to chant from the Torah or haftarah; improving your Hebrew, and exploring your own spiritual and religious expression.  The Jewish community at MHC has an email group list. If you would like to learn more about the group and Jewish observance at Mount Holyoke please feel free to contact Amelia Ender. 

Click here to see the Mount Holyoke Jewish Student Union Photo Gallery!