When are religious services?
In the Jewish tradition, we observe Shabbat services on Friday nights and/or Saturday mornings, although prayer can be done any day of the week. For specific times and dates at Congregation B’nai Israel, please submit our interest form on the “Contact Us” page, and someone will be in touch with you! You can also find that form here.
Why doesn’t CBI publicly post service times?
Unfortunately, we live in a world where not everybody has the best intent for the Jewish people. Following the advice of security experts, it is CBI Board policy to only disclose the dates and times for events to members and affiliated friends.
How can I get involved in Temple life?
The first step is to get in touch with us! Fill out the form found on the “Contact Us” page to get started.
I’m interested in Judaism. Where can I found out more, or possibly convert?
The answer to this question is complicated. The short answer is “Yes!” The long answer is that it takes years of study, dedication, and involvement. It is common for conversion to take 2-4 years to complete, and unfortunately we cannot currently complete conversions in our Temple because we do not have a Rabbi. We can get you started here, and then connect you to other resources to finish your conversion. There is a process, but it takes a while!
If you are interested in digging a little deeper, you should start coming to services, attend events and holidays, and check out this page with resources, suggested readings, and other helpful tools.
CBI is a “Reform Synagogue.” What does that mean?
There are three primary movements in Judaism: Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform. Temple B’nai Israel is a Reform synagogue that delivers prayer services in a way that “leans” slightly Conservative, meaning you may hear more Hebrew than in other Reform congregations.
Orthodox Judaism, as you would expect, is the most observant and tends to follow the commandments of the Torah literally. People in this movement usually keep kosher, observe the sabbath, and make Jewish practice a primary part of their daily lives. Orthodox services are extremely traditional and will not involve any form of music. They will also be almost entirely in Hebrew.
Conservative Jewish practice involves a slightly less stringent version of observation. Many Jews who follow this movement keep kosher, but they may not do it as strictly. Holidays are extremely important in this movement, but daily prayer and practice is less emphasized. Music will be a part of religious services, and men can sit together with women. Services will be mostly in Hebrew, with the occasional injection of the local language.
Reform Judaism is the least observant of the three major movements. Those who follow it rarely keep kosher, or may follow a “kosher-style” lifestyle. While holidays and Shabbat are observed, activities are not heavily restricted, if at all. Music is an essential part of these services, and great liberties are taken with observation and prayer styles. Services in this movement will involve the least Hebrew, and may be entirely in English.