Youth Groups
Youth Groups
Bonim Youth Group (Grades K–2)
The goal of Bonim is to help “build” (as the name explains) friendships and a comfort level within our synagogue. This energetic group meets once a month either in the synagogue building or offsite. Recent Bonim events have included apple picking, movie nights, planting parties, and much more! Parents are encouraged to chaperone at least one Bonim event during the course of the year. Participants in Bonim activities must be members of B’nai Israel Congregation.
Lily Pollack, Bonim Advisor
Click here for upcoming Bonim events.
Machar Youth Group (Grades 3–5)
The goal of Machar is to prepare children for machar—tomorrow. This group meets monthly for social programs. We build friendships and allow students to feel a part of the B’nai Israel family. Machar events have included Adventure Park, Museum visits, a rocking’ Hanukkah party, and much more! Parents are encouraged to chaperone at least one Machar event during the course of the year. Participants in Machar activities must be members of B’nai Israel Congregation.
Erin Willcher is ready for another amazing year as the Machar advisor. Erin is a former camp counselor, b’nai mitzvah tutor, and orientation leader. Erin brings plenty of fun and amazing program ideas to her role as Machar Advisor.
Click here for upcoming Machar events.
Gesher Youth Group (Grades 6–8)
Gesher offers middle school students (grades 6–8) social, Judaic, and community service activities, along with the opportunity to meet Gesher members from other synagogues. Gesher meets once a month and our members play an active role in choosing their events.
Uriel Lin, Congregational Shlicha/Gesher Advisor
Click here for upcoming Gesher events.
Teen Youth Group (Grades 9–12)
This youth group offers teens the opportunity to develop lasting friendships and leadership skills through a variety of Judaic, social, educational, and athletic programs. Seaboard Region hosts weekend conventions, dances, and athletic leagues. On the international level, we offer opportunities to travel throughout the United States, Europe, and Israel. Don’t miss out! We have an exciting year of programming and we can’t wait to see you there!
Click here for upcoming Teen events.
Thu, April 3 2025
5 Nisan 5785
the latest
Every Word and Every Crumb (Parshat Pekudei, March 29) by Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz
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announcements
Passover at B’nai Israel
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Mark Israel’s National Days
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Vote Mercaz in World Zionist Congress
Voting is now open through May 4. Learn more.
Lessans Talmud Torah Registration Open for 2025-26 School Year
Register K-8 students for religious school today and learn more about our award-winning program.
Registration for the 2025-2026 Schilit Nursery School Program Year is Open
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Thanks for voting us Best of Jewish Washington! Named 2024 Best Preschool, Children & Teen Programming, Alternative Shabbat Service, and Judaica Shop! Learn more.
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Adult March of the Living Trip April 22–May 1, 2025
Join us on the journey from darkness to light. Learn more.
NEW Hebrew High Launches for Grades 9–12
Our program is designed with the interests and schedules of teens in mind. Check it out.
B'nai Israel First Synagogue in North America to Install RightHear, supporting those who are blind or low vision.
Read our press release here.
NEW Resource: Fighting Antisemitism
Raise Awareness, Educate, and Act to stop antisemitism. Learn more.
Join Our Shabbat Morning Livestream
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Explore Our Exciting Adult Education Offerings
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shabbat services
Friday | 6:15 PM (7:00 PM during Summer) Access via Zoom (password 6301)
Saturday | 9:00 AM & 12:30 PM (Minha) Access via Livestream
weekday services
Sunday | 9:00 AM & 8:00 PM
Monday–Thursday | 7:15 AM & 8:00 PM
Friday | 7:15 AM
*Service times vary on holidays.
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inclement weather policy
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We are accessible
B’nai Israel is proud to be accessible to all.
Large print siddurim, assistive listening devices and page magnifiers are readily available. Our entire building and grounds are wheelchair accessible. We can provide sign language interpreters upon request and subject to availability.
