What do I get for my membership dues?
A lot! You get a sacred community made up of caring clergy, staff and synagogue members to support you through life's challenges and to celebrate your blessings with you. You get a community of friends with whom to learn, to struggle and to grow. You will be celebrated for your accomplishments and challenged to improve yourself and your world. You will be a part of congregation that has been flourishing for well over 50 years. You will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are supporting the continuation of Jewish life in Greater Hartford, and in the world. Don’t forget to check out the “Getting Involved” section of the Beth El website.
What's the process for joining Beth El Temple?It's easy. Simply contact the main office at (860) 233-9696 and ask to speak with Executive Director, Rabbi Howard Sowalsky. He'll answer your questions, take you on a tour and explain membership. He will introduce you to the clergy and make arrangements for committee chair people to reach out so you are able to get involved. Howard can also be reached at hsowalsky@bethelwh.org
What if I can't afford membership?No one is turned away for financial reasons. Special new first-time membership programs are available as well as a membership assistance program.
Do I receive High Holiday tickets with membership?Yes! For regular synagogue membership, excluding Supporting Members or Friends of Beth El, High Holiday tickets are provided.
What if I'm in an interfaith family?Our goal is to help every family feel comfortable in our congregation, and we warmly welcome interfaith couples and families. A non-Jewish partner or parent can participate in most aspects of Jewish ritual. During a baby-naming, or bar or bat mitzvah, the non-Jewish parent traditionally joins their spouse and child on the bimah and is honored by the congregation. The non-Jewish parent may also deliver an English reading as part of the bar or bat mitzvah service. All are welcome and encouraged to participate in Beth El committee life and social action projects. You’ll find more information by clicking here.
Do we have to be a member in order for our child to attend religious school?
Yes, membership is required to attend Beth El’s religious school. For full information on our award-winning religious school program and fees, please contact Rabbi Howard Rosenbaum at (860) 233-9696, ext. 111 or (860) 233-9891. You can also email: hrosenbaum@bethelwh.org.
For more information please contact Executive and Ritual Director Rabbi Howard Sowalsky at (860) 233-9696, ext. 102 or Rabbi Ilana Garber at ext. 104.
