Home > Blog > 22-39 > 2239: Where Tradition Meets Today
It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. I discovered 2239 in the midst of the pandemic, after moving to D.C. to begin law school, a challenging endeavor under ideal circumstances. During a time of deep uncertainty and concerns for safety, 2239 and WHC kept their doors open to Jewish young professionals looking to find community.
My first encounter with 2239 was the 2020 Erev Rosh HaShanah service in a loading dock outside Union Market. Heat lightning struck off in the distance as Rabbi Miller gave his sermon, young Jews from all over the DMV crowding together in what became a masked, standing room only affair. Since then, I have become a member of WHC, and then a member of the 2239 Steering Committee, and now I am the Events and Programming Coordinator for the group. This path has been a blessed one that would not have been possible without the support of the rabbis and 2239 members.
2239 is a vibrant Jewish young professionals group that brings together individuals in their 20s and 30s through shared cultural, spiritual, and religious experiences. In a time when many young people are seeking meaningful connections and deeper engagement with their heritage, 2239 offers a unique space where Jewish identity and modern life intersect. With a blend of tradition and contemporary relevance, 2239 provides a welcoming environment for young Jewish professionals to connect, grow, and explore their faith and culture in an accessible and dynamic way.
What makes 2239 particularly special is its focus on fostering religious, spiritual, and cultural connections. In a world, and area, that often prioritizes career advancement over personal fulfillment, 2239 helps members balance both by offering experiences that nurture their Jewish identity. Whether through holiday celebrations, Metro Minyan Shabbat at Temple and the historic synagogue in the Lillian & Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum, or discussions on Jewish values and contemporary issues, members can engage with their faith in a meaningful, relevant way. These experiences provide a deeper sense of purpose and belonging, making 2239 a vital resource for young Jews who want to integrate their spiritual life into their greater network.
Upcoming Event
With unbelievable exhibits and the restoration of the oldest original synagogue in D.C., the historic prayer space at the Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum is filled with original pews from most of D.C.’s major synagogues, including one from WHC’s first location at 8th and I. This slice of Jewish history lives and breathes in our city, and we could not be more excited to pray there.
At the heart of 2239 is its commitment to keeping Jewish traditions alive while presenting them in a way that resonates with today’s young adults. Instead of formal or outdated structures, 2239 blends ancient traditions with modern sensibilities, ensuring that each event feels both significant and enjoyable. Shabbat dinners, for example, are not just religious observances but opportunities to unwind, share a meal, and connect with others. 2239 has adapted to fit both the needs of the community and the constraints of our world; we’ve moved services out of that glorified parking lot to Temple to ensure safety and spirituality and we created programming around Israel that opens space for all perspectives. These experiences help bridge the gap between ancient tradition and modern identity, providing a place where members can explore and express their Jewishness in a way that feels both relevant and fulfilling.
I would not be where I am without 2239, and I am so thankful for any opportunity to share my love for the group and its programming.
Visit whctemple.org/2239 for information.
Sarah Cossman is Program Coordinator for 2239.
