Who We Are

Tree of Life is a unique and dynamic Messianic havurah (fellowship) based in Dayton, Ohio. The group embodies three key characteristics: it is Virtual, Messianic, and Organic; each of these elements plays a significant role in shaping the community's identity and approach to spiritual life.

Virtual Aspect

Tree of Life operates primarily as a virtual community, which allows for flexibility and inclusivity. Members gather every Shabbat morning on Zoom, creating a space where people can connect from their homes or wherever they are. This virtual format makes it easier for individuals from diverse locations and backgrounds to participate, while also serving those who may find it difficult to attend in-person meetings due to distance or other factors. While the group primarily connects online, there is also a strong emphasis on meeting regularly in person, fostering a balance between virtual convenience and personal connection. This hybrid model reflects the modern adaptability of the group, allowing it to remain close-knit while reaching beyond geographic boundaries.

Messianic Aspect

As a Messianic Jewish community, Tree of Life upholds the vision of the Messianic Jewish movement. This movement is rooted in the belief that Yeshua (Jesus) is the Jewish Messiah, and members of Tree of Life maintain their connection to the Messianic Jewish community, traditions, and practices, while embracing Yeshua as central to their faith. In a Messianic context, the group celebrates biblical feasts and adheres to the teachings of both the Tanakh (Hebrew Scriptures) and the B’rit Hadashah (New Testament), harmonizing their faith in Yeshua with the richness of Jewish heritage. This dual commitment allows the community to thrive at the intersection of Jewish and Christian traditions, drawing from both while creating a spiritually distinctive environment.

Organic Aspect

What truly sets Tree of Life apart is its commitment to being an "organic" community, structured around the principles of the organic church movement. In contrast to traditional religious settings that often feature centralized leadership—such as a pastor, rabbi, or designated clergy—Tree of Life functions without any singular authority figure. There is no designated pastor or rabbi; instead, leadership is distributed among the members. This reflects the organic church philosophy, where every member of the community actively participates in the work of ministry. Members of Tree of Life share responsibility for teaching, worship, pastoral care, and decision-making, fostering an atmosphere where every voice is valued and where spiritual growth is a shared endeavor.

The group’s decision-making process is collaborative, emphasizing consensus and participatory engagement. Decisions, whether related to community activities or spiritual direction, are made collectively, with each member contributing to the conversation. This model encourages spiritual maturity and growth, as individuals are empowered to take ownership of their spiritual journey and the collective direction of the group.

Community Dynamics

The absence of formal leadership does not translate into a lack of structure; rather, the group is highly intentional about fostering a participatory environment. Members engage deeply with one another, sharing insights, leading discussions, and contributing to the spiritual health of the community. This mutual responsibility creates a dynamic where relationships are more horizontal, with an emphasis on mutual edification rather than top-down instruction.

Tree of Life’s organic structure also aligns with the New Testament's model of the early church, where believers came together, often in homes, to worship, share meals, and minister to one another. This connection to the early church fosters a sense of continuity with the original Messianic movement, grounding Tree of Life in ancient practices while simultaneously embracing modern expressions of faith.

Conclusion

In summary, Tree of Life is a vibrant community that thrives on its virtual connectivity, its deep commitment to Messianic Jewish values, and its organic, participatory model of church life. By blending the virtual and in-person experience, the community maintains flexibility while staying grounded in personal relationships. As a Messianic havurah, it serves as a bridge between Jewish tradition and faith in Yeshua. Its organic structure allows for shared leadership and decision-making, fostering an environment where every member is actively involved in ministry and community life. Tree of Life represents a forward-thinking expression of faith, deeply rooted in tradition yet uniquely adapted to the modern world.