welcome to B'nai israel
Founded in 1925, B’nai Israel has been a major presence in the Washington area for generations. Our talented clergy and staff, creative and innovative programming, and magnificent facility are well known. Anyone who enters the building can sense our commitment to children and adults of all ages through our multiple weekly Shabbat youth services, impressive schools and youth groups, and top-notch educational programs for adults.
But B’nai Israel is much more. We are a caring community that supports members in times of need and celebrates life’s joyous moments together. We inspire individuals and assist them in charting their own spiritual journeys. We engage in the larger community, doing our part to improve the world and sustain the institutions of Jewish life here and in Israel.
I invite you to explore our website to learn more about all that B’nai Israel has to offer. And I hope that you will be in touch … to tell us about yourself, ask questions, and be an integral a part of this special community.
We aspire to be your home for Jewish life.
Michael J. Safra
Senior Rabbi
Thu, September 19 2024
16 Elul 5784
Livestream
Shabbat Services
Friday at 6:15 PM
Saturday at 9:00 AM
the latest
Lo Tukhal L’Hitalem: Do Not Ignore the Call (Parashat Ki Tetze, September 14) by Rabbi Michael Safra
announcements
High Holidays Information
We look forward to welcoming 5785 with you. Click here for our High Holidays information.
Congregational Shabbaton at Pearlstone Retreat Center
Get away with B'nai. Learn more.
TEEN Civil Rights Trip this November
Join us for a special opportunity for 9-12th graders. 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.
Schilit Nursery School AND Lessans Talmud Torah registration for 2024–2025 is open!
Very limited spaces remain for our 2024–25 Schilit Nursery School — we can't wait to meet you! Registration is also open for our Lessans Talmud Torah (Grades K–8).
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
Click here to access.
Explore Our Exciting Adult Education Offerings
Learn more here.
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.
Click here for access information.
shabbat services
Friday | 6:15 PM (7:00 PM during Summer)
Saturday | 9:00 AM & 12:30 PM (Minha)
Click here for access information.
inclement weather policy
Click here for information.
Join Our Mailing List
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.
