Membership FAQs

1. Why should I join Congregation B'nai Israel?

Our Clergy, members and staff are always excited to welcome new members into the CBI community. CBI offers a wide variety of educational, social, and spiritual programming throughout the year designed to engage and be meaningful to our membership.

2. I’d like to join, but don’t know anyone at Congregation B’nai Israel.

CBI offers many opportunities for new members to meet other members. Several new member events and a host of other synagogue-wide events are held during the year. You can join a committee, take a class or volunteer to participate in services.  Once you step into the building, you will see that it is quite easy to meet people!

3. Why should I join now as a new parent?

It is never too early to be part of a Jewish community. CBI offers a variety of programming designed for families with young children.  Our  preschool, Gan Yeladim, offers many programs for young children, including mommy and me, preschool, Kindergarten Enrichment and Shabbat Experience.  Our religious school hosts a program for pre-K age children, once a month, plus classes for Kindergarten - 12th grade. Worship opportunities for families with children of all ages are available on some Friday nights and on certain Saturday mornings we have family learning services.  We also host Family Shabbat services which are specifically geared toward families with children up to 5 years old.

4. My kids are grown. What does CBI have for me?

Congregation B’nai Israel focuses on community building with many adult-oriented experiences including adult education seminars, social action programs, and ritual activities and services. The synagogue strives to enhance your connection with other members at all stages of life and provide an opportunity for spiritual fulfillment. On our calendar of events you will find author talks, study groups, bridge, films, and community programs. And, of course, volunteers for community of caring, library, religious school and kitchen are always needed!

5.  What should I do next?

We welcome you to visit our synagogue any time. The building is generally open all week, for Shabbat services and Sunday mornings during religious school hours during the school year.  Shabbat services are generally at 7:30 pm on Friday and 9:30 am on Saturday morning. We often hold services in our lovely, intimate Chapel. Larger services are held in our beautiful and inviting Main Sanctuary. Shabbat Experience (for SHMA students and their families) are held on specified Saturday mornings and are posted on our calendar.

For questions about membership, please email Membership Committee Chair, Bonnie Cooper, bcooper888@aol.com  

We look forward to welcoming you to Congregation B’nai Israel!