Philippines
In the heart of Surallah, South Cotabato, Mindanao, Sha’arei Torath Moshe is a unique Jewish organization in the Philippines. The community unites aspiring converts while assisting in the growth and development of emerging Jewish and Noachide communities in the surrounding regions and supporting individuals reconnecting with their Jewish heritage and roots. Under the leadership of Rabbi Avraham Coalesce and with the support of Kulanu, the community developed into a vibrant hub of prayer, study, and celebration. A simple synagogue and mikveh were completed in 2021. The community’s dedication to learning and its embrace of diverse Jewish traditions have made Sha’arei Torath Moshe a light to both its members and its surrounding region. A mix of historic ties to conversos and possible connections to the Lost Tribes of Israel imbue the community with a profound sense of history and purpose, while its remote location has fostered innovation and resilience in maintaining its vibrant Jewish life.
Practicing Judaism Since
1996
Denomination
Orthodox, Noachide
Community size
Under 100
Locations
Surallah
Languages
English, Filipino, Illongo
Kulanu Support Since
2019
Kulanu has done a fantastic job of providing financial and material support over the years, and has helped us liaise with Jews globally. We are extremely proud of Kulanu’s commitment and dedication to not only us, but to the many other established or emerging communities that they support.
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Diverse Lineages
The members of Sha’arei Torath Moshe come from a range of backgrounds that reflect the unique history of Jewish presence in the Philippines. Some trace their ancestry to conversos, Jews who were forced to convert to Christianity during the Spanish Inquisition and later found refuge in the Philippines. Others believe they are descended from the Lost Tribes of Israel, an identity that resonates deeply with their spiritual journey. Despite challenges in tracing formal genealogies due to historical and cultural barriers; family traditions, names, and oral histories play a significant role in helping members reconnect with their Jewish roots. This heritage enriches the community, linking its modern practices to a storied past.
Commitment to Learning
Education is central to the life of Sha’arei Torath Moshe, where study serves as both a spiritual practice and a way to build community. Members engage in weekly study of the Parashat HaShavua, Haftarah, and Tanach, drawing moral and ethical lessons from the texts. The Mishneh Torah guides their exploration of halachic principles, while practical wisdom from texts like Mishle (Proverbs), Messilat Yesharim (Path of the Just), and Hovot haLevavoh (Duties of the Heart) informs daily life. Geographical isolation has not hindered their learning; instead, the community has embraced digital platforms to connect with broader Jewish resources and teachers, empowering a dynamic and ongoing engagement with Jewish knowledge.
Blending Diverse Traditions
Sha’arei Torath Moshe’s practices reflect a rich tapestry of Jewish heritage, drawing on Sephardic, Ethiopian, and Yemenite traditions. This multifaceted approach allows the community to celebrate and preserve a variety of liturgical and cultural customs, creating a deeply inclusive environment. The integration of these traditions fosters unity among members while offering a unique expression of Orthodox Jewish life in the Philippines. By blending these diverse influences, Sha’arei Torath Moshe has cultivated a vibrant identity that honors the past and embraces the present for a strong and cohesive future.