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 18 2025
25 Elul 5785
the latest
Needs vs. Wants (Parshat Ki Tavo, September 13) by Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz Click here to read. Click here to watch.
announcements
Celebrating 100 Years of B’nai Israel
Founded in 1925, we look forward to this milestone year ahead. Click here to visit our Centennial website.
High Holidays 2025/5786
Click here for High Holiday information including schedules and programming. We look forward to bringing our community together.
Shop the Centennial Merch Store
Wear and share your Centennial pride! Store is open until Sept 30. Shop now.
Fifth Annual Shamash Award - Nominations Now Open
Click here to nominate a deserving member.
Lessans Talmud Torah Registration Open for
2025–2026 School Year
Register K–8 students for religious school today and learn more about our award-winning program.
Registration for the 2025–2026 Schilit Early Childhood Center Program Year is Open
Our award-winning school can't wait to meet you. Learn more.
Thanks for voting us Best of Jewish Washington! Named 2024 Best Preschool, Children & Teen Programming, Alternative Shabbat Service, and Judaica Shop! Learn more.
Looking for an Event? Check our Calendar.
Click here to see our daily programs.
Fighting Antisemitism Page
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.
shabbat services
Friday | 6:15 PM (7:00 PM during Summer)
Access via Zoom (password 6301)
Saturday | 9:00 AM & 12:30 PM (Minha)
Access via Livestream
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.
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.
