About Us
Established in 1996, Sulam Yaakov began as a small group of families seeking an open and egalitarian expression of Judaism in Zichron Yaakov. What started as a handful of passionate individuals gathering in living rooms has blossomed into a thriving Reform congregation: a vibrant center for prayer, learning, and community engagement that serves dozens of families across the region.
Our Mission
To build an inclusive, egalitarian, and compassionate Reform Jewish community in Zichron Yaakov that embraces spiritual growth, education, and social responsibility while honoring both tradition and innovation.
A vibrant center of Reform Judaism and spiritual home that welcomes every person with open hearts and open minds in Zichron Yaakov.
We aspire to:
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Nurture lifelong Jewish learning for children and adults alike
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Serve as a model of dialogue and pluralism
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Inspire acts of social action and healing in the spirit of Tikkun Olam
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Provide a spiritual anchor for hope and democracy in Israel
Our Vision
Leadership
Evyatar Guzner, Congregation's Rabbi
An educator from Haifa.
Graduate of the rabbinical ordination program at Hebrew Union College (HUC).
Believes in a pluralistic and welcoming Judaism, and loves working with people.
Teaches Bible (Tanakh) and Jewish Thought at the Leo Baeck School in Haifa.
Linda Lior, President
Linda joined Sulam Yaakov in 2001 and has served actively on the board since 2016. With over 20 years of experience in software design and user experience, Linda is also the author of Writing for Interaction (2013), a widely respected guide in UX writing.
Paul Shotts, Treasurer
Paul joined Sulam Yaakov in 1997 and has served actively on the board since 2000. With decades of experience in finance and accounting, Paul brings meticulous oversight and steady stewardship to the community's finances.
Dr. Esti Doron, Director of Eduacation
Dr. Esti Doron joined Sulam Yaakov in 2001 and has been an active board member since 2016, bringing expertise in education, community engagement, and organizational development.
Prof. Ken Grossberg,
Founder
Professor Emeritus at Waseda University in Tokyo and Chief Strategy Officer of the Mitya'alim Social Aid Fund (NGO), Prof. Ken Grossberg founded Kehilat Sulam Yaakov in 1996 together with his late wife, Keiko z"l, helping to build the foundation of the community as it stands today.
Jonathan Jacobi,
Director of Development
Jonathan joined Sulam Yaakov in 1999 and has been an active board member since 2025. With extensive experience in community organizing and advocacy, Jonathan is passionate about building bridges across diverse communities .
