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Meet a Member

Meet a Member

Shayna, Mikayla, Sophia, and Mat Wolfson
Age: 40s, 10, and 5
Member Since: 2022
Wolfson

Why Mishkan?

Why Mishkan? We live in the area and saw Mishkan Shalom driving by. We were looking for a congregation to join that would be a good fit for our family. Mat grew up in a Reconstructionist congregation and that piqued his interest. When we inquired, we were asked to join a Zoom meeting with Rabbi, Holli, and a member of Mishmems. We were immediately overwhelmed with such a welcoming response. Mikayla was 8 at the time and joined the Zoom from her own device. It was clear that Mishkan valued getting to know each member and creating a welcoming place for all. Mikayla felt included in the conversation and was also excited. That night Rabbi predicted Shayna joining the Education Committee and all of us loving Weekend in the Woods and he was spot on!

Favorite Program at Mishkan:

How can you pick just one? Weekend in the Woods, Shabbat in the Park/Under the Stars, and Hanukkah Party to start.

Fun Fact:

Fun Fact: Shayna and Mat met at Hillel at Muhlenberg College through mutual friends. Mikayla is an amazing DM (Dungeon Master) for D&D (Dungeon and Dragons), with help from dad. Mat also enjoys camping and Phish. Shayna enjoys painting. Sophia danced before she walked and loves unicorns.

Mattan Alalouf
Age: 34
Member Since: 2023


Mattan

Why Mishkan?

I had been looking for a place, not just for a Jewish home, but also a place where I felt comfortable being curious so I could learn more again. Jewish cultural practice was important to me but I had forgotten a bunch of things since Hebrew school (or maybe learned them at all), so I could learn things and bring Aishat [my wife] with me. And where she would feel comfortable as we are an interfaith couple. We had just moved to Philly in the few months prior and wanted to meet community here too. I had gone to services a couple times and had a conversation with Rabbi Shawn. And it just felt like a place that met all of the things that we were looking for.


Favorite Program at Mishkan:

I love Saturday morning services. That’s what I go to the most. There’s community and also a bit of meditative practice and the opportunity to chant with everyone a little bit. Socially, Emily has been doing a really great job with YAMS [the Young Adults of Mishkan Shalom]. I do not get to go as often, but I have really enjoyed every one of the events that I’ve gone to.


Fun Fact:

I’m a Ph.D. dropout.

Fri, December 5 2025 15 Kislev 5786