Temple Beth Zion

I totally didn’t expect to feel compelled to write a review on Unilocal of my first-​ever experience at a Shabbat service! (I wasn’t raised in the Jewish tradition and I view religion and religious services as things that are very personal and quite subjective.)
However, I actually *do* want to add my two cents because…
Hands down, Temple Beth Zion has the most genuinely friendly *and* lovingly close members I’ve ever seen and been welcomed by on my first time attending any kind of religious service as a newcomer.
I would have been more comfortable with the the service itself if I’d called ahead and met with one of the rabbis before hand to have them explain it in greater detail. However, I came in right behind a woman who grabbed a program for the service from the half-​open drawer on the right side of the lobby. Because of the translations at the bottom of the pages, I was able to understand the meaning of the beautiful Hebrew reading, chanting, and singing that fills the room throughout most of the service. I basically just let it all wash over me and participated where I could figure things out. (If you’re not familiar with Hebrew, remember that Hebrew is read from right to left, unlike English, so the program will seem like it’s bound backwards at first. You’ve got this though!)
If you’re curious about this what a non-​denominational synagogue is like, I *highly* suggest that you attend a shabbot service and/​or give them a call. My heart was warmed and fortified by this down-​to-​earth, genuinely loving and welcoming community.
I was expecting for my fairly impulsive attendance to be a one time deal, but I might just go back.

A down to earth, caring community.

Non– denomenational shul that welcomes all. Never have I felt more at home in a synagogue, very genuine congregation that looks for meaning and doesn’t go through the motions. Never a fashion show like many suburban synagogues. everyone welcome, many singles and low income members. Big emphasis on community service tikkun olam. Meditation and lots of adult ed. Members do not subsidize hebrew school! A breath of fresh air.

Come for Friday night services, and you will feel a lovely energy as the Kabbalat Shabbat psalms are sung with real ruach and feeling. Stay for no-​holds-​barred Torah study on Saturday mornings, and you will learn from rabbis, mystics, Buddhists, red-​diaper babies, and even skeptics. This is a wonderful Jewish community, and full of love, learning, and mutual respect. After two visits, I felt I had to become a member, and years have gone by and I still feel lucky to be a part of this place.