About Us
Temple Beth El of Williamsburg is a vibrant congregation that values both the unique individual backgrounds and beliefs of our diverse members and shared historical traditions. We celebrate our role as participants in the evolution of Judaism by engaging our tradition thoughtfully, so it remains meaningful and relevant to each of us.
​
In this spirit, we are committed to lifelong education, chesed (caring), tikkun olam (repairing the world), and sharing important life events. We are an informal and respectful community moved by prayer, fired by lively discussion, enlivened by laughter and song.
Our Mission
Temple Beth El of Williamsburg strives to encourage spiritual fulfillment, happiness and meaning for our members and families through interactive worship, life-long education, service to both our community and the larger world.
Our Purpose
We are the central gathering place in the Greater Williamsburg region for Jewish worship, learning, life cycle commemoration, and social events. Temple Beth El of Williamsburg is committed to applying Jewish traditions to today’s changing world and assisting members of all ages to more fully understand, embrace, value and practice their Judaism.
Our Values
Temple Beth El of Williamsburg will:
​
-
Continue to be an inclusive, caring Jewish congregation whose members seek to evolve spiritually and educationally
-
Strive to engage members, create connections, and enrich their lives
-
Be an intimate, enduring and dynamic home for all generations
Frequently Asked Questions
1 / What are services like at an unaffiliated synagogue?
At TBEW, we use the Reconstructionist Movement's Siddur for for Shabbat. Kol Haneshamah can be found here.
We are a family-oriented, learning centered congregation. Services are a mixture of Hebrew and English, with all Hebrew also transliterated. On Friday nights, Rabbi typically shares a story or talk related to current events, the calendar, or the parashat. On Saturday mornings, we engage in Torah Talk, led by the Rabbi, after the parashat is read.
2 / What should I wear?
We are a "come as you are" congregation. No special attire is needed. We have kippot in a basket by the entrance, as well as tallitot to borrow for morning services. Wear what you are comfortable wearing-you will see congregants in anything from jeans to suits. It is also unncessary to cover tattoos and/or piercings.
3 / What if my family is interfaith?
The short answer? You and your entire interfaith family is welcome. Here at TBE-W, we value all families, and your partner will never be pressured to convert, while also being welcomed fully into our community. When someone joins as a member, their entire immediate family is considered full members.
For more information, our complete interfaith statement can be found here.