Our House of Study

The Beit Midrash is a classic Jewish House of Study meeting the diverse religious, spiritual, educational and social needs of members of the Jewish community. Regardless of one’s affiliation or background, the goal of Beit Midrash Eitz Chaim is to educate and instill, in a pluralistic and egalitarian environment, a life-long love of Jewish learning, Jewish living, and Torah—our Eitz Chaim, our Tree of Life. Our overall goal is to create a learning context that is rich and engaging, by providing enhanced adult Jewish education in a creative and dynamic learning environment.  This, along with officiating at lifecycle events and conversions, in addition to providing pastoral counseling, will foster personal growth and create a path that brings us closer to each other, closer to Eretz Yisrael—the land of Israel—and closer to God.

In January 2006, Rabbi Kim L. Rosen, recognizing a need in the Portland Jewish community, founded Beit Midrash Eitz Chaim, a non-profit organization, in an effort to promote Jewish learning as a supplement to congregational participation.  Rabbi Rosen, with support and encouragement from many people in the Portland Jewish community, created Beit Midrash Eitz Chaim as an extension of her devotion and love for Judaism.  Her deep caring about Jewish life, love for Am Yisrael—the people of Israel—and love of Torah, motivates her to donate her time in an effort to provide enhanced Jewish studies and pastoral counseling for those adults in the Portland Jewish community seeking an opportunity to intensify their commitment to Jewish life and learning.