Social Action

Social action is a critical component of the KHL community.  We are affiliated with Jews United for Justice and contribute to their Community Roundtable.  An important component is volunteering to speak out for justice in Baltimore and Maryland.  As an affiliate of Reconstructing Judaism we voted to support the RJ resolution to engage in the conversation around reparations.  We have been meeting the 4th Sunday of each month at 5pm to to study reparations and have invited other communities to join us in these discussions.  We participate with the Institute for Islamic, Christian and Judaic Studies.  Rabbi Emily has been a fellow in their new clergy program, and we have 3 fellows in the 2023 Congregational Leadership program.  Additionally we engage in cooperative social ministry with our “campus-mates” Well for the Journey and Church of the Holy Comforter.

The heads of the Social Justice Committee are Claudia Balog, Maia Meeron, and Doug Colbert. Claudia Balog represents Kol HaLev at the Jews United for Justice Community Roundtable. 

Rick Reiches represents Kol HaLev on environmental issues, focusing on the climate change crisis and environmental justice issues, particularly connecting with Jewish environmental organizations such as Dayenu and Adamah. Anyone else interested in these issues is invited to contact Rick at this email address.

Kol HaLev’s Promise to You

What You Will Experience at Kol HaLev

At Kol HaLev, the Voice of the Heart, you can expect an experience that touches your life, not just your calendar.

You will be welcomed as you are.

You will not have to fit a mold or prove what you believe. We respect your questions, doubts, and spiritual path, and your presence will matter from the moment you arrive.

You will feel seen and known.

Under Rabbi Emily’s leadership, you can join a warm community where people know your name, listen to your story, and care about you.

You can experience prayer that feels alive.

Through music-filled, participatory services, prayer becomes something felt, not just words on a page. Singing together creates moments of joy and connection to yourself and others.

You will find a community that shows up.

We celebrate and share life’s meaningful moments together, and support each other through illness or loss. Many members describe Kol HaLev as a family by choice.

You can engage with Judaism that makes sense to your life.

Rooted in Reconstructing Judaism, Kol HaLev invites thoughtful exploration rather than rigid answers. You will encounter teachings and conversations that feel relevant, honest, and meaningful.

You will have space to reflect and grow.

Kol HaLev offers room to connect with yourself, explore your spirituality, and deepen your sense of purpose in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment.

You can experience leadership that is present and personal.

Rabbi Emily Stern’s warmth, wisdom, and accessibility shape every aspect of community life, creating an atmosphere that feels caring, grounded, and deeply human.

You can feel more connected.

Whether to yourself, to other people, or to Jewish life, Kol HaLev is a place where connection grows and becomes part of your life.

Contact us today and discover how you can become part of the Kol HaLev family.