But others, like newly formed Congregation Etz Chayim in Palo Alto, depended on the funds to get their programming off the ground. A Reform synagogue that formed about a year ago, Etz Chayim operates on a shoestring. The congregation doesn't own a building and only recently hired a rabbi. However, it does have an active school for children in grades kindergarten through third and their families. Parents and children learn together for an hour then separate.
Kids work on related projects.
Adults engage in Torah-based discussions. The two groups meet for havdallah at the end. In addition, families gather once a month on Sundays for brunch and holiday programming. The congregation holds a monthly potluck dinner and prayer discussion before Shabbat services, and a monthly adult education program on Tuesdays. The synagogue opted for a family program with multiple components for several reasons.