Beth Hillel Rome: A Young Congregation, a Growing School, and a New Foundation for Jewish Learning in Italy
In a city with one of the world’s oldest Jewish histories, something brand new is taking root.
This summer, ShalomLearning launched a partnership with Beth Hillel Rome — the first and only Progressive Jewish community in Italy’s capital. Founded just over a decade ago by ten courageous Roman Jews, Beth Hillel has grown into a vibrant, self-funded congregation of 300+ members, a 40-child Hebrew school, and a community that welcomes families from across the globe.
After only four months with ShalomLearning, students are making what their educator Rachel Rosen describes as “leaps and bounds” of progress. Teachers say prep is easier and lessons finally feel consistent. And the community is experiencing something remarkable: a b’nei mitzvah boom, with 15 students now in the current cycle and 10 anticipated every year for the next five years.
But the Beth Hillel story isn’t just about outcomes — it’s about what it truly takes to bring Jewish education across languages, cultures, and borders.
ShalomLearning in Hong Kong and Beyond
A Red Taxi, a 125-Year-Old Synagogue, and ShalomLearning’s Growing Mission
A Message From Our Executive Director
Not long ago, I hopped into a little red taxi in Hong Kong and headed up the hill to Ohel Leah — a 125-year-old synagogue that has anchored Jewish life in the city for generations. I was there to visit one of ShalomLearning’s longest-standing partners, and the conversations I had there opened my eyes to what’s possible as we continue to grow.