The mission of Jewish religious education is multifaceted. As a congregation, we strive to provide a warm and nurturing environment for everyone who walks through our doors. It is our aim to be a vibrant religious institution, providing our children with the background necessary to develop a love and enthusiasm for Judaism so that Jewish values might guide and enrich their paths through life. Temple Beth-El is a place that affords meaningful and inspiring experiences that are cherished and carried on wherever we may go. In this way, we continue Temple’s strong history of being a center of Jewish life and social connection for its members and the wider community as well.

A number of elements contribute to our ability to engage our students and their families. These include formal and informal programs of Jewish education through Religious School, Youth Group, and other opportunities to celebrate the life-cycle and holidays as a community. These offerings incorporate Jewish cultural, ethical, and linguistic components – from the basics of Shabbat and Holy Day observance to Jewish values, and from prayer comfort and proficiency to exposure to varieties of Jewish theology and the wide range of possible learning in between.

The Temple conducts a program of activities to meet these goals, for children, adults and families. Students attend Religious School. Families participate in ongoing Temple events (such as Shabbat and holiday services, social programs, etc.). All are encouraged to take advantage of the additional opportunities for study, celebration and gathering that are held.

Our greatest accomplishment is to help our children (and all members of the community) to reach these goals. After all, it is not sufficient to teach our children about Jewish life – but rather we desire to provide them the tools to live Jewishly. We look forward to furthering the partnership among the members of our Temple family to fulfill this purpose. Then, we know we are making our best efforts to perpetuate the beauty of Judaism, and allowing the next generation to take hold of the sacred heritage that has been handed down to us. Together, we will build creative, healthy and enjoyable Jewish lives.