| Membership Information
Temple Sinai is a small, friendly congregation of approximately 260 families. Our small size provides a feeling of warmth and intimacy which larger congregations may find difficult to achieve. At the same time, our worship opportunities, educational programs, and cultural and social events rival those of many larger synagogues. Below are some of the reasons you might find our community appealing, but the most important reason is this: at Temple Sinai, members are comfortable embracing Judaism at their own pace and in their own way. We come from diverse Jewish backgrounds and have varying degrees of Jewish literacy – yet everyone is welcome to participate in all aspects of temple life. This is an exciting time at Temple Sinai. Our rabbi, Andrew Vogel, is committed to providing new and rewarding opportunities for all congregants. And recently we welcomed Cantor Rosalie Toubes, who will be exploring a wide range of Jewish liturgical music with the congregation. We invite you to explore and learn more!
Here are some ways that our community is unique:
A Time of ChangeIn July 2004 we welcomed Rabbi Vogel as our new spiritual leader. Since then, he has guided the congregation through a period of reflection and experimentation, particularly with our worship and music programs, and you can be a part of it. You should also know that because of our small size, if you decide to become a member, you will get to know the rabbi!
Cantor Rosalie Toubes joined Temple Sinai in the summer of 2006. With her love for Jewish music and broad liturgical knowledge, she is providing new and exciting musical avenues for worship and understanding.
A Community Based On EgalitarianismTemple Sinai was founded with a belief in equal treatment for all members, from major benefactors to members of modest means. We have no reserved seating for “important” members at high holiday services. We derive a substantial part of our revenue from what we call “Free Will” offerings from members who can afford to contribute more than their annual dues, instead of imposing mandatory contributions to a “building fund.” We give each spouse or partner in a member family an equal voice and vote in the Temple’s affairs. And in keeping with Reform tradition, we welcome women, members of racial minorities, gays, and lesbians as full participants in our community.
A Caring CommunityWe have an vibrant caring community that actively takes care of our elderly and ill members and those who are in mourning. Our Caring Committee also hosts periodic healing services. We have a large group of members interested in social justice issues. Our Social Action Committee hosts an annual Mitzvah Day and other programs aimed at fulfilling the mitzvah of Tikkun Olam – repairing the world – and helping the community at large.
A Community of LearningWe have vibrant and active religious school for children in pre-K through high school. Because of our small class sizes, the students form tight-knit groups that play an important role in the congregation as a whole, and most remain active participants throughout their high school years. We also have a robust program of adult learning opportunities including regular Torah study, Hebrew for adults, guest speakers, and classes on Jewish liturgy, history, and contemporary topics.
Come See For Yourself!
The best way to get a feel for our congregation is to visit a Shabbat or other worship service, an educational program for children or adults, or another event – our current calendar is
here.
Just call our office at 617-277-5888 to let us know you are interested. You can also ask to speak with Rabbi Vogel. He’ll be happy to hear from you. Or feel free to
email
the membership committee. We look forward to meeting you! |  |
