Testimonials

"When Kesser says “The Orthodox Synagogue for All Jews,” they really mean it. I really feel welcome here, and it’s an easy place to feel a part of. Coming into Kesser — no matter what part of the service — it’s impossible to not feel the spirit. At Kesser it always just feels so alive, and that’s what’s so special about this place."

- Neil Simon

"Kesser is the center of our life in Portland, this is where we come to be part of the community. It's very special to be a part of the Kesser community. Simply post a need on our community WhatsApp group and it will be filled in seconds, which is something I find hard to believe could be matched anywhere else."

- Yossi Daitchman

"Kesser’s response to COVID-19 has been more than we could ever have dreamed. Kesser has been able to comfort us throughout this whole thing. From the virtual Davening every single day to the Drash we get every Thursday, Kesser has been a constant. Kesser has become a warm best friend that we can rely on. It’s been steadfast for all of us here, and we are so grateful for it."

-Eleanor Warshaw

"You are the warmest, most welcoming community, and accept us where we are Jewishly. The community has supported us when we needed you, and after being participants in the Kesser family for years, this year we decided to become official members and get more involved. We are looking forward to getting to know more of you and getting more involved in the Shul."

- Rena Fox

"Kesser Israel has been a breath of healing air despite the chaos of a global pandemic. Even when we had to walk through dense smoke up the hill to Kesser while wearing masks the entire time, just to Daven socially distant from one another, we still know this is how we want our Shema to be heard echoing through this generation — with a smile on our faces. We know that our children will hear our encouragement amidst fear and uncertainty and choose to walk a life of Torah and Simcha beside us in this loving community. Kesser has been there providing new content, it seems daily, and continues to have an active minyan. This is home for us."

- Seanne and Adam Hartford