Colombia
In Colombia’s coastal cities of Barranquilla and Santa Marta, a quiet Jewish revival is unfolding. Rooted in the legacy of Bnei Anousim—descendants of Jews forced to convert during the Inquisition—these communities have embraced their Jewish heritage with dedication and joy. Guided by Rabbi Juan Mejia, who supports them from afar, and bolstered by grassroots commitment and Kulanu’s partnership, they’ve built vibrant, egalitarian spaces for prayer, study, and celebration.
Each city is home to a small but passionate community, with services held in Spanish and grounded in Conservative Judaism. Women participate fully, and visitors are welcomed warmly for Shabbat and holidays. Since 2014, Kulanu has supported these efforts, beginning with a mini-grant to help Santa Marta’s Javura Shirat Hayyam establish a Hebrew School classroom.
Discover Colombia
Rediscovered Traditions
For many families, curious customs—like lighting candles on Friday nights or avoiding pork—were preserved unknowingly for generations. Today, those echoes of Jewish ancestry are finding new life, as community members study Torah, celebrate holidays, and undergo formal conversion with a sense of pride and clarity.
A Tale of Two Cities
In Barranquilla, Jewish life is lively and deeply communal, while Santa Marta’s Javura Shirat Hayyam serves as both synagogue and school. Both are egalitarian, welcoming, and rooted in education and spiritual growth. They’ve also formed international ties through Hillel student visits, strengthening bonds with the global Jewish world.
Kulanu’s Impact
Kulanu has helped turn these communities’ hopes into reality—providing prayerbooks, school supplies, and visiting educators. Just as important, Kulanu offers recognition and connection, ensuring these Jews-by-choice feel seen, supported, and embraced as part of the larger Jewish family.In Colombia, the spirit of rediscovery is strong, and with support, these communities continue to flourish—renewing a legacy once nearly lost.