Congregation Beth Israel Judea

Under the spiritual leadership of Rabbi Danny Gottlieb and Cantorial Assistant David Morgenstern, the services are filled with music and meaning. Whether attending Shabbat services, holiday festivities, adult learning, or our women’s monthly gathering for Rosh Chodesh, I always leave feeling a part of something special. In good times and sad times, the people at Congregation Beth Israel Judea offer friendship, support, kindness and a prayer. I am proud to call Congregation Beth Israel Judea my synagogue and community.

A warm inviting place that includes all aspects of worship as a Reform Congregation. There is something for everyone’s tastes for types of services and celebrations, as well as community feeling for times of other needs. There is a First Friday potluck for children and families, a 3^rd Friday Feast which is free for anyone, as well as a 4^th Friday Chant and Drum. Saturday morning services are held each week within the building. The temple is located on Brotherhood Way, amidst a street full of other churches and religious buildings, and has a large parking lot and easy access to both 19^th Ave. and Hwy. 280. It is accessible for both religious and other needs, as well as warm and welcoming. The Rabbi and staff are both experienced, accommodating and helpful to everyone. It’s definitely worth the time to come and share an event or just come to worship as usual.

BIJ (as they call themselves) is a great growing congregation. I found them through the Conservative synagogue search, and while they do have a fairly traditional Saturday morning service, they are a great balance of Reform and Conservative in all aspects of their congregation.
My boyfriend — who is not at all Jewish — is completely welcomed at the synagogue. Their siddur not only has the normal transliteration, but has questions and explanations on the side, which allows non-​Hebrew readers to stay involved. The rabbi and cantor also make sure that all are involved by always saying what page you are on.
While there is a Hebrew day school on campus, the congregants who show up are mostly older, but they are welcoming in change. The older congregants want more families and young people, and were overjoyed when my boyfriend and I (young twenties) showed up. I’ve only been to a few services — I hear there’s an awesome drum service the last Friday of the month — and I’m hopeful that more young people will show up. Especially because there’s only so much ruach a 75 year old can have. :)
I love the tenor of the synagogue. There is room for all kinds, and they’re accepting of all sorts. Come as you are, fully human, and they will accept you.