Temple Emanu-El deserves the most improved synagogue in RI award. In a dramatic turnaround…read moreinitiated by retired Rabbi Wayne Franklin, Emanu-El has morphed from a stodgy rigid institution to a welcoming and family friendly place of worship and socialization. They accommodate their congregation by holding early morning as well as regular time Shabbat services and will work with you on membership dues if you need financial help. Most impressive has been their commitment for online services that make it possible for just everyone to attend - even this Brooklyn based RI transplant! So if you are looking for a people friendly shul in the conservative tradition, I recommend the impressive synagogue at the top of the hill - Temple Emanu-El!

This shul has really figured out online zoom programming during covid. We have attended the…read morevirtual Israel Trip, many Trivia Nights, education classes, and Services. The "camera" man during Friday night services does a great job spotlighting families who are singing and dancing in their living rooms. It is common to have 50-100 devices logged into services. Lots of ruach.

When I first moved to the Providence area, I went 'shopping' for a synagogue. I found a wonderful…read moreassortment of various traditions and practices, but the one synagogue that really felt right was Temple Beth-El. While raised in the Conservative tradition, I find Reform Judaism to be right in my comfort zone. Meeting with Rabbis Gutterman and Mack, I found them to be warm and welcoming. Other synagogue 'machers' were similarly friendly, and made me feel like I'd found my religious home in Rhode Island. Services are open and accessible, and the congregation is full of truly lovely people. What strikes me most about Beth-El, however, are the family-based programs they offer. I've taken my son to the Shabbat K'Tantan and K'Tantan B'Yachad services, and we've both had a wonderful time. These services are kid-oriented, featuring singing, games, activities, and food. It's a great way to introduce my son to his heritage. Beth-El also offers an excellent "Intro. to Judaism" class for people interested in converting, or just interested in learning more about Judaism.