It's hard not to notice that many of the cultural offerings in Jerusalem (as well as elsewhere in Israel) are products of, and intended for, the secular community. Whatever the reason, and despite a long and distinguished history of religious Jewish accomplishment in the fine arts, the religious Jewish community has largely ceded its role to its secular counterpart.

The Avi Chai Foundation, however, aims to challenge that particular cultural paradigm. A moderate religious Zionist organization with lofty goals, the foundation claims to follow in the footsteps of Rav Kook, the first titan of religious Zionism who was noted for his good relations with Israel's secular Zionist community. The foundation's stated goals are the furthering of Jewish identity, identification with the state of Israel, religious observance and sensitivity between Jewish groups. To that end, it has established Beit Avi Chai on King George Street in Jerusalem – a cultural center to host its events.

Beit Avi Chai is still getting off the ground, but it already offers lectures, jazz, youth programs, art displays, programs about piyut (Jewish liturgical poetry) and more.