Bet Israel Synagogue
Community Center Conservative Synagogue Egalitarian
The Conservative synagogue and community center in Netanya
Come be a part of a community where family is at the centre. At Bet Israel, we believe in inclusive, open, contemporary and constantly evolving Judaism, in keeping with the traditions, legacy and visions of Conservative Judaism.
We are a Zionist, fully egalitarian, family-friendly community, committed to a vision of inclusive, open-minded, forward looking, evolving Judaism that optimally blends tradition and ritual with modern life and contemporary values.
We invite you to join us for Shabbat services, celebrate Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, and other Jewish lifecycle events, explore your Jewish and Israeli identity, and enjoy a variety of cultural and spiritual activities.
Reception: Office Sun.-Wed, 8:30-13:00
Rabbi's reception hours: Sun. 10:00-13:00, Mon. 13:00-16:00
The founder of the community
Rabbi Emeritus Erwin Birnbaum, of blessed memory, worked tirelessly to bring olim (immigrants) from the former Soviet Union closer to Judaism in Netanya. He helped many of them discover their Jewish roots, conducted conversions, and organized Bar Mitzvah ceremonies. To this day, we collaborate with their cultural activities under the umbrella of 'Sha'arim,' where concerts and trips to get to know the land of Israel are organized for all new and old immigrants.
The Conservative movement
Also known as Masorti Judaism, is a stream within Judaism that combines faithfulness to Jewish tradition and halacha (Jewish law) with openness to the modern world and a democratic-humanistic culture. Conservative Judaism sees halacha as a dynamic and evolving system of values that can adapt to local conditions and changing circumstances from generation to generation.
We aspire to be the place and community for everyone in Netanya
We believe that every person is connected, whether acknowledged or not, to their roots, to their family's identity, and to their personal history. Life's demands often lead us to prioritize various aspects, and sometimes we temporarily set aside the need and desire to repeatedly experience a meaningful spiritual connection with our family and loved ones. We return to these places during significant moments in our lives, like weddings, bar mitzvahs, or simply an impromptu dinner in a friend's sukkah. This is precisely where the Bet Israel community comes into service.
My inspiration comes from you, the people, women, men, and families of Bet Israel. It stems from your needs and desires. We encourage every individual and family to connect with themselves from an embracing place and celebrate with us always, together, anew each time. We are an egalitarian conservative synagogue where family is at the center, where we sit together, celebrate together, and where everyone can lead and participate, women and men alike
(Rabbi Erwin Birnbaum, of blessed memory)