Join Us

We want your family to be strong and an integral part of the community.

Most Jews in America are part of some form of interfaith family. Some have a spouse who comes from a different faith tradition, while others have children, grandchildren, or other relatives who are in a loving relationship where Judaism is joined with a different belief system.  Regardless of your situation, B’nai Israel wants to help you build a strong Jewish home that acknowledges the richness of your family’s life.

B’nai Israel Congregation has been a microcosm of Jewish Washington since 1925, reflected in its geographic, religious, and social development. Our promise to interfaith families is an integral part of B’nai’s founding objective to meet the ever-changing needs of the community. We are B’nai Israel Congregation and Talmud Torah – engaging our community, educating our children, and empowering each person’s Jewish journey.

We welcome interfaith families to B’nai Israel, where diverse worship opportunities, educational programs, and other activities offer everyone the chance to engage in personally meaningful ways. When faith traditions inevitably conflict, we see an opportunity to explore differences in a quest for joy and enrichment for each family.

B’nai acknowledges that some may approach a traditional Conservative synagogue like B’nai Israel with apprehension, wondering if they will fit in and feel fully included in the community. Our answer to this concern is straightforward: the more you engage and participate, the more you belong.  At B’nai Israel, we focus on “Do” regarding interfaith families and avoid the “Do Not.”

• Come and worship with the community.
• Celebrate Shabbat and the Jewish holidays.
• Enroll your children in the Schilit Nursery School and B’nai Israel Talmud Torah.
• Participate in programs and join one of our many social groups.
• Enjoy the richness of your family, the variety of your beliefs, and the joy of your love.
• Get to know our clergy and feel comfortable meeting with them to address specific needs.
• Give us a chance to engage and embrace you.