I attended a wedding (I'm not Jewish). I can't speak to the religious subtleties, but I was very…read moreimpressed at the building - it's clearly been well-maintained, and it has a much better airiness and feel than European cathedrals that I've visited. I was also impressed at the education level of the Rabbi, the Cantor's enthusiasm was obvious (even if I didn't understand the words), and everyone clearly had a strong sense of what I would call a joyous sense of community. Something that Christian churches rarely have, unfortunately. People were really happy to be there, and to see and help each other. An inspiration.

This is a wonderful Jewish synagogue in the heart of Brookline, MA. A beautiful, large building,…read morewith a gorgeous main sanctuary, function hall, large daily minyan, and Hebrew School. They are open to interfaith couples who choose to raise their children Jewishly; they are open to gay and lesbian Jews; Jews of any ethnic background; Jews by birth and Jews-by-choice (halakhic conversions to Judaism); they are open to Jews who range from the very observant to not-so-observant. Their all-night Tikkun for the holiday of Shavuot is something to be experienced; the best that I have ever gone to. Make no mistake about it, this is a Conservative Jewish synagogue, in the broadest and most traditional sense of the term "conservative Judaism". Conservative Judaism, as it was intended by those who developed it, is trans-denominational, or if you prefer, non-denominational Judaism. They do not hew to a strictly rigid and narrow set of beliefs (theology) and practices (halakha), like so much of the Orthodox. Nor do they jettison all beliefs and practices, as did most of the Reform. As Reform Rabbi W. Gunther Plaut admitted, "there is no such thing as a [Reform] Jewish theological principle, policy, or doctrine", robbing people of the very thing people seek when they become part of a community, or religion. Instead, this synagogue follows the classical rabbinic Jewish path of acknowledging there are Jewish principles of faith, but recognizes that no one code of them ever developed canonical status, thus encouraging members to study many Jewish texts on the subject, and approach them intellectually; the same is true for halakhah (Jewish law and custom); Jewish law is considered to be normative (what one is supposed to do, as opposed to a mere suggestion), yet at the same time following the classical rabbinic Jewish path in which more than one interpretation of the law may be considered valid. This worldview is the basis of classical rabbinic Judaism in the Talmud, and of Conservative Judaism itself, whether or not a synagogue is formally a member of the Conservative movement. By the way, this definition also includes most of the Chavurah movement, the Union for Traditional Judaism, and the more liberal Partnership minyans which are nominally Modern Orthodox :-)

Temple Beth Abraham (called TBA by members) is a neighborly, welcoming, Conservative Jewish…read moresynagogue. It follows the religious practices of Conservative Judaism: traditional Jewish law interpreted in a non-fundamentalist fashion. Given its location in the suburbs, many of TBA's members aren't fully observant; the community is sensitive to the needs of all members, from secular and Reform, to Conservative and Traditional. It is welcoming to interfaith couples, and has great outreach to couples who wish to raise their children Jewish. Unlike many suburban synagogues, TBA's membership is large and holding it's own, perhaps even growing. It has a vibrant, fun Hebrew School, for students from kindergarten up to high school. It has an adult education program, and an active men's club and sisterhood. Their services are primarily in Hebrew, following the Ashkenazi liturgical tradition, and using many of the traditional melodies that I grew up. Services also have a generous amount of English readings and are accessible for newcomers. In addition to Shabbat services every Friday evening and Saturday morning, and services for all the Chagim (holidays/festivals), they have daily Ma'ariv (evening) prayer services at 7:30pm; very good for building a sense of community, and for those saying kaddish or yahrzeit, The Shabbat services could use more Shlomo Carelebach-type melodies and harmonies. But that's true of nearly all synagogues nowadays. This is a community worth visiting and joining.

A wonderful, welcoming, participatory congregation. An excellent K-4 school and b'nai mitzvah…read moreprograms. Adult learning opportunities from engaging with each other on the chighly charged political challenges of the day to baking classes. Come join us - we're small but mighty!

I was thinking of returning to Judaism, but I had questions. For instance, can atheists be Jews?…read more Eitz's website said "Atheists Welcome" right up front. The site also said "Casual Dress." Now I show up every Friday.

I grew up in a Conservative-oriented family, but I have the spiritual sense of a (modern…read moremachine-cut) brick and no interest in practicing Judaism, but the loss of my wife to cancer earlier this year and some things surrounding that got me feeling more culturally Jewish, and I started looking at synagogues. Temple Israel hadn't even been on my list, but they were hosting Tisha b'Av this year (the Reform synagogues in that area rotate it annually) and I decided to check it out. I found that I really liked the larger size, active and varied (in age and other characteristics) community, and inclusive approach. "Inclusive" in this regard doesn't simply mean diverse -- Temple Israel certainly is -- but also the participatory atmosphere. For example, they called all new members up -- quite a few of us -- for the aliyah on Yom Kippur morning (and followed that up with the entire congregation during the afternoon). Rabbi Elaine Zecher, the senior rabbi, is very influential in the Reform movement, and listening to her and talking with her it's very apparent why, but one wouldn't necessarily know that the way the clergy interact. I've seen synagogues where the assistant rabbi(s) would better be described as rabbi's assistant or even apprentice, filling in only as needed, but that is not the case here. They rotate who delivers the sermon and tag team during services such that all of the rabbis lead for roughly equal amounts of time and don't "specialize". They are all very approachable and have their own distinct personalities. Despite (or not) it being a large synagogue, I find it very easy to talk with people, which isn't something that comes naturally to me. The clergy is very innovative indeed, but I cannot think of anything that we do that I can say is fundamentally out of line with Jewish tradition. It likely would not be to the taste of someone familiar and comfortable with Orthodox practice. They do use different (and varying) melodies for many of the usual prayers and songs, but that makes it more interesting. As far as the building and location goes, it's historic but well-maintained and updated and fully accessible. Fully validated parking in an enclosed garage right across a street that's really a driveway, along with convenience to the Longwood T stop, make it very easy to attend.

In the hunt for a synagogue in Boston, there were many to choose from! I think I made a good choice…read morewith Temple Israel for many reasons: + It is very accessible via bus or car, and they validate parking in a secured garage. + The facility is old and historic, and very very beautiful + The congregation is the most diverse and varied I've ever, ever experienced. They are open to interfaith, homosexual, young, and old. + Very affordable dues and payment options. The only downsides to this synagogue is that despite the fact that I love the inclusion and diversity, it is a little too "modern", I guess. They break away from the usual "Gates of Repentance" book that most of us are familiar with, using different melodies for standard prayers (sh'ma, viahavta, avot, etc.) that, unless you have always gone to this temple, you won't know.

A warm, welcoming synagogue. It's very small and it's easy to meet people. The synagogue is…read moretraditionally Orthodox and so are most of the members, however there is a large minority of less religious members who join for various reasons (it was their childhood synagogue, location, finances-it's very inexpensive), etc. Some of the less religious members have leadership positions, so it's not 'discriminatory' in that respect. Women also have board positions, though be aware that there is separate seating (women sit in a balcony; the Torah is supposed to be and usually is brought up at the appropriate time). At various points in term the synagogue has hired a part-time rabbi; otherwise the synagogue is lay-led. Sometimes rabbis or cantors are hired for High Holiday or other special services. There is no religious school (or wasn't when we were members a few years ago) as most of the children attend Jewish day school. It may be possible though for one of the members to help find an alternative (private instruction, etc) if the day school option does not work for you. The synagogue sponsors a number of educational and social events; most are open to non-members and they are usually very good. Physically, the synagogue, which I believe is on the National Register of Historic Places, is lovely. The building is fairly small and older but is very well kept up. It exudes an informal, welcoming atmosphere. Parking is not a problem and no one is going to condemn you if you drive rather than walk. I would definitely attend services here if you live in the area and are looking for a synagogue, or even if you already belong to another synagogue and just want to see what it is like. It is really a special place and worth attending a few services to see a type of synagogue that is pretty rare today,

From the owner: The Adams Street Shul is an independent, historic Orthodox synagogue that serves a diverse…read morecongregation and the broader community. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Shul hosts a welcoming volunteer community, now entering its 100th year of service, where everyone can contribute and be active in the life of the congregation.

This is a wonderful and welcoming synagogue. It is a Conservative synagogue has recently become…read morevery vibrant again. There are many young families of every type and race, who are leading the way and their are lots of family activities. The Tot Shabbat is is packed and is led by a really incredible woman who has all of the kids singing along. My family joined last year and feel as is we have really found a home.

Their congregation is environmentally conscious and this was an appealing reason to write this…read morereview. Tradition is no reason to hurt our wildlife. Hurting another living being to repent for our sins is a bit hypocritical.

This shul is a diamond in the rough, and truly work checking out. Drop by any Friday night at 6…read morefor a short, warm and spiritual service, and you won't be sorry. I started going about 15 years ago, but just recently have become more involved as the energy has been growing after the hiring of a new assistant rabbi, Eliana Jacobowitz.

This congregation is welcoming without being overwhelmingly outgoing. Each person is taken as they…read moreare and there is truly something for everyone. It's a good place to learn about Judaism and to see if there is a place for Judaism (or more Judaism) in your life. The clergy are so approachable, warm and authentic. There's lots of spirited music and also opportunities for quiet reflection. Everyone's persective is valued. There are numerous activites for ages 0 to 100 including education, entertainment, socializing and community justice action. Interfaith families and non-Jewish people who are curious are all able to find a home here.

From the owner: Temple Ohabei Shalom ("Lovers of Peace") is an affiliate of the Union for Reform Judaism. We…read moreencourage people from all paths of Judaism to be a part of our community. Our members are comprised of Jews by birth, by choice, interfaith families, and a diverse range of ethnicities, nationalities, and sexual orientations. We worship as one sharing spiritual Shabbat services infused with rich music, comforting worship and inspiring holiday observance. We offer a myriad of adult learning opportunities to challenge your mind. Special guest speakers sprinkle Friday night services. From meditation gatherings to social action Mitzvah Days, we are a community committed to learning and growing both spiritually and in deed.

Overall, just an amazing Kehilla. Very Jewishly literate, friendly people, and the most hospitality…read moreI have seen in a shul. Need a meal for Shabbat? It's as easy as using the website the Thursday before Shabbos. Beautiful new building, and is condusive to any number of events. Great Cholent on Shabbos, as well as the normal Ice Cream kiddush. Check it out.

This is the creme de la creme in Jewish community. Here you will find a highly educated and very…read morewarm community of people. Every Shabbat you will find something new, friendly faces, tasty food and intelligent classes. You can get a great tasting hot free meal and you will also enjoy learning with people who really know what they are praying about and who care deeply about Judaism and Life! L'Chaim