B'nai Israel Congregation

An opportunity for parents to meet with Rabbi Cheryl Stone to discuss parenting joy and frustration, concerns and aspirations all within a Jewish context. Open to all parents regardless of their child(ren)’s school enrollment.

“But I’m just a parent, grandparent, congregant, person... I’m not a storyteller!” You can become a storyteller by telling a story. And, you will become a more lively storyteller by watching two B’nai Israel congregants tell their Passover stories. Not only will you appreciate their tales, you will learn how to tell a unique seder story of your own as you interact with your fellow congregants using the creative art of storytelling.

$36/member; $50/nonmember There are many ways to understand the oft-cited statistic that Jews are the least “prayerful” of all religious communities in America. This course unpacks some of the mysteries of the traditional prayer service in an effort to alleviate discomfort in the synagogue. We will begin with an overview of the structures of Jewish prayer and then examine several of our most popular prayers. We will use Lev Shalem, the newest siddur of the Conservative movement, and find ways to use its tools to find meaning and otherwise enhance the prayer experience.

This special program brings together all B’nai Israel 2nd grade families to honor and celebrate the value of l’dor vador, the passing of our heritage and traditions from one generation to the next.

*Every Monday when B’nai Israel offices are open.

Join us as we continue our study of Berakhot, which includes a comprehensive discussion of the Shema and Amidah, the essential components of the prayer service. Newcomers are more than welcome to join us. No prior knowledge is necessary.

Wednesday, February 5 (continuing 14 more weeks, concluding May 28) 7:00–8:30 PM at Ohr Kodesh Congregation $150/person (includes textbook) Whether you want to learn more about your heritage, are considering converting, or are eager to incorporate more Judaism into your life, this course is for you. Throughout this 15-week course, students of all ages and backgrounds explore significant topics: rituals, holidays, Torah and values. Each cohort is guided by a multi-denominational team of rabbis who bring the past, present, and future together—including B’nai Israel’s own Rabbi Michael Safra, Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz, and Rabbi Cheryl Stone. Presented by The Haberman Institute for Jewish Studies.

Join fellow Men’s Club members for drinks and discussion. B’nai Israel’s Kashrut policy requires that food served in non-kosher restaurants must be dairy or parve.

All 5th, 6th, and 7th graders are invited to join B’nai Israel clergy and staff at Pearlstone Retreat Center for a weekend of fun and games! Celebrate Shabbat and get to make new friends on this special weekend away.

Welcome Shabbat with joyful song, led collaboratively by members of the B’nai Israel community. Shabbat Zimra will begin with a wine and cheese gathering to enhance our Shabbat celebration.

6:15 PM Kabbalat Shabbat with remarks by Tammy Gottlieb Shabbat dinner immediately following services

All 5th, 6th, and 7th graders are invited to join B’nai Israel clergy and staff at Pearlstone Retreat Center for a weekend of fun and games! Celebrate Shabbat and get to make new friends on this special weekend away.

Celebrate the Men’s Club and their contributions to our community as they lead and participate in the Shabbat service.

B’nai Israel’s Gold Kippah Honor Society recognizes students for their proficiency in various prayers. New this year: Pre-b’nai mitzvah students will be “buddied” up with a post-b’nai mitzvah student. Older students will mentor younger students to build stronger tefillah skills while fostering friendships across grades, role modeling, and building an integrated community. Click here for more Gold Kippah information including the Gold Kippah Siddur and audio files.

Family Minyan includes spirited prayer, an engaging Torah reading, and lively conversation about the weekly Torah portion. There is no better way to prepare your child for their bar or bat mitzvah and build community connections than regular Shabbat attendance. This service is led by clergy and staff, including Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz and Rabbi Cheryl Stone.

Designed for the youngest members of our congregational family, Tot Shabbat meets weekly to sing, learn, and pray together with Tot Shabbat leaders, Morah Juliann Goldman and Lily Pollack. Beginning July 1, this service is followed by a Family Kiddush.