A Few Questions
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A Few Answers

How do you pronounce
Merkaz Ha-Iyr?

Mehr-KAHZ Hah-EAR

Congregation Merkaz Ha-Iyr is our formal name but our friends like to call us “Merkaz.”

What does Merkaz Ha-Iyr mean?

Merkaz means “center” and Ha-Iyr means “the city.” Put it together and we have “Center of the City.”

What is Congregation Merkaz
Ha-Iyr?

Congregation Merkaz Ha-Iyr is the newest congregation in the heart of central Phoenix. We follow a progressive, liberal, and inclusive path, while maintaining a healthy respect for traditional Jewish practice. In other words, a congregation that is very much in sync with the values and practices of the modern Reform movement.  It is our hope that our congregation will become a "center" of joyous Jewish living, learning, worship, and celebration for our members and for the larger community.

We believe that communal experiences, worship, study, and community service are the foundations of a flourishing Jewish community. In a very short time, we have created a warm, welcoming congregation where we have put the fun back into Jewish congregational life.

Who Is Congregation Merkaz Ha-Iyr?

We are families, singles, couples, retirees, young adults, and interfaith couples who have gathered to form a Jewish community in the heart of Phoenix. While many of us grew up in traditional Jewish families, some of us are in the process of joining the Jewish faith, and some of us are committed to raising Jewish children while maintaining our own faith-traditions. We invite those who are in any phase of their Jewish journey to worship, learn, and celebrate with us.

We encourage everyone, regardless of how they self-identify, regardless of ethnic background, age, or sexual orientation to see themselves as cherished members of our congregational family.

What Does Congregation Merkaz Ha-Iyr Offer?

We are a full-service congregation with High Holiday services, regular worship services, social activities, social action, adult education, family education, youth education, youth activities, and of course Shabbatonim.

There is something for families, older adults, singles, empty nesters, and any type of grouping you could imagine. Possibly even a few you never considered.