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About Outreach

Outreach: Judaism for Everyone programming is designed for those who are curious about Judaism, returning to Judaism, converting to Judaism, raising Jewish children, or sharing Judaism with loved ones.

outreach2Our mission is to extend warmth and hospitality to every one who chooses to enter our doors. Our programs, which include Introduction to Judaism and many "how-to" classes, provide an introduction to the celebration of Jewish life and offer support and guidance for those in interfaith relationships.

For more information, contact Program Director Bonnie Graff at 858 535-1111, ext. 3800. For information about conversion to Judaism, contact Rabbi Michael Berk at 858 535-1111, ext. 3110.
Judaism for Everyone


Check out these additional resources for those exploring Judaism.
Interested in Judaism?

For those just starting their path into Judaism, there are many ways to preview what a life in Judaism looks like. Beth Israel loves to encourage people along the path and welcomes you to any of our many services, programs, courses, and events. The best way to get started is to come. Visit our Get Involved page for a list of options.

If you'd like to get semi-regular updates of upcoming events, sign up for our Outreach enewsletter here.

Readings, Q&A's, and First-Person Perspectives

Beth Israel, as a member congregation of the Union for Reform Judaism, welcomes and supports those who choose to explore Judaism. Jews by Choice are a gift to our people and to our communities. While each person's path into Jewish life is unique, there are shared questions and experiences that are common to many. We hope to help you find answers to some of your basic queries and to point the way to additional sources.

Becoming a Jew
A pamphlet that answers basic questions about conversion in an easily accessible question and answer format.

First-Person Perspectives on Becoming a Jew
Read heartfelt stories and poetry these people have chosen to share.

How Do I Know When I'm Ready?
How did I know I was ready to convert to Judaism? What are the essential elements that help insure the sincerity and authenticity of such an important decision?

Questions & Answers
Answers to the most commonly asked questions about converting to Judaism

Recommended Reading: Conversion
Excellent publications for those who are thinking of choosing Judaism.

When a Family Member Converts: Questions & Answers About Conversion to Judaism
As a parent, sibling, or close friend, you may be wondering how to react to a loved one’s decision to become a Jew. This resource addresses some of those questions.
 

Ongoing Outreach Events

Conversion Mentor Program
Get a helping hand on the path to being Jewish. Conversion mentors are carefully selected CBI members who serve as a friendly resource for those working with our clergy toward conversion. If you would like to have a mentor, let your assigned clergy member know.

My Family and Me
familyVarious Sundays all Year at 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.
This program, designed for families with chidren ages 6 months to 4 years, explores individual Jewish holidays thorugh theme-related songs, art and cooking. For information, contact 858 535-1144. There is no fee and no need to RSVP. The 2011-12 schedule consists of:

October 2: Sukkot March 25: Passover
November 6: Tzedakah & Mitzvot April 22: Yom Ha'Atzmaut
February 5: Tu B'Shevat May 20: Shavuot

Erev Shabbat Services

erev shabbat servicesClergy-Led Friday Evening Services

Join us every Friday evening to welcome Shabbat with song, prayers and blessings. These services often feature notable speakers and the beautiful music of our Youth and Teen Choir, Adult Choir and Chai Band.

Judaism for Everyone

chanukah-classJudaism for Everyone

Our mission is to extend warmth and hospitality to every person who chooses to enter our doors. Whether you are curious about Judaism, returning to Judaism, converting to Judaism, raising Jewish children, or sharing Judaism with loved ones, you will find many CBI programs to introduce you to the warm celebration of Jewish life and support and guidance for those in interfaith relationships.

Shabbat Services

torahs sanctuary congregation beth israel Clergy-Led Shabbat Morning and Afternoon Services

Most Saturdays Congregation Beth Israel holds Shabbat services in the mornings at 10:00 a.m. and afternoons at 4:00 p.m. in our beautiful Glickman-Galinson sanctuary. These services celebrate the Bar/Bat Mitzvahs of our members and are open to the entire community. Please join us and celebrate Shabbat!