Frequently Asked Questions

What does Temple Beth-El represent?
Since we first opened our doors in 1871, on the Sabbath after the Chicago Fire, Temple Beth-El has been a congregation that lives by the words of TORAH, knowledge, AVODAH, service, and GIMILUT CHASADIM, good deeds. We diligently maintain our reputation for service, commitment, warmth, and community. We hope you will join the over 650 families in our Temple family and participate in these endeavors as we strive to meet your needs.

What makes Temple Beth-El different from other congregations?
There are several characteristics of Temple Beth-El which unite us with the whole Jewish community, yet make our congregation unique: continuity, progressive spirit, and our members. The continuity of Temple Beth-El is evident from the great number of members who are as active in the congregation, as were their parents and grandparents ... some to the fifth generation. The Temple Beth-El spirit provides a warm and caring atmosphere which flourishes from the interaction of our members, their children, rabbis, teachers and staff. The strong feeling of Jewishness found at Temple Beth-El, generated by our "Temple Family," made up of members with different backgrounds, yet with common goals.

What are some of the advantages of joining Temple Beth-El?
In its broadest program, the Temple strives to serve Judaism and enrich each of us through worship and education for both children and adults, social and cultural activities that promote inter-generational bounds, and together with inspiring ceremonies that sanctify our life cycles - - Confirmation for young people at the tenth grade level, Bar and Bat Mitzvah, and Adult B'nai Mitzvah for all ages.

Here are some of the reasons people join Temple Beth-El:

  • Our Rabbis, learned and loving, are leaders of a caring congregation
  • Our congregants volunteer and initiate programs open to the entire community
  • Our Pre-School, Religious and Hebrew School, and Adult Education programs are exceptional. You can begin or continue your Jewish education at any age.
  • Our Rabbis teach our children and bring scholars to augment their knowledge
  • Our Distinguished Journeys Group is unique in offering countless activities for mature fulfillment
  • Every family member can find meaningful Jewish study, worship, service and fellowship
  • We are involved in both our local community and the worldwide Jewish community
  • Temple Beth-El is a synagogue where you can worship in an atmosphere of meaning and beauty
  • Our youth groups and adult fellowship offer friendship and celebration
Please let us know if you would like to talk to some Temple members about why they joined Temple Beth-El and what they've found here.

Who are our members?
They are people in all walks of life, from many lands and communities, of all ages, who have varying opinions, beliefs needs, and contributions. Any Jewish person (or in the case of a couple, at least one is Jewish), eighteen years or older, may become a Temple Beth-El member. The unit of membership is individual, or in the case of married persons or domestic partners, the couple. Members' dependent children are included in the membership of their parents. Our Temple membership consists of approximately 650 families. Our Religious and Hebrew Schools have almost 360 students. Our membership is open to you and your family. At Temple Beth-El, there is no membership waiting list.

Who is our staff?
Two Rabbis, Rabbi Emeritus, Cantor, Executive Director, Director of Life-Long Learning, Director of Family and Congregational Life and Youth Director - - experienced, creative and responsive. In addition, staff support includes dedicated office personnel, teachers and members of the congregation who have assumed leadership positions in the democratic direction and management of all Temple Beth-El activities. Our staff and lay leaders work together to promote the totality of Jewish values and Jewish experience through activities within the Temple and surrounding communities. A complete listing of Temple officers, Board members is available from our Executive Director.

What can you tell me about the Temple facilities?
The Temple facility in Northbrook is located at 3610 Dundee Road. It has a 650 seat sanctuary, a 90 seat mishkan (chapel), and a large social hall. It also has sixteen classrooms as well as a library/learning center, high school youth lounge, Women's Club Gift Shop, meeting rooms, out-door playground and ample parking. Our High Holiday Services are held at Glenbrook South High School in Glenview, to allow for united families to worship together.

What prayer books are used?
On Shabbat and Festivals, we use the Gates of Prayer - - "The New Union Prayer Book" - - available in the Temple sanctuary or the Mishkan T'filah. On the High Holidays, we worship using the "Gates of Repentance," which may be purchased in our Temple office.

How is our Temple supported?
Temple Beth-El's operations are funded by dues, free-will gifts, and fundraising activities that support the maintenance of the congregation and its programs. We also have alternative financial arranges that makes it possible for anyone to become a member regardless of one's financial situation. Information on Temple dues is available by calling.

How does one become a member?
We cordially invite you to make Temple Beth-El your religious home and to become part of our congregational family. For more information or to request a membership packet, please e-mail Marcy Chez "mchez@templebeth-el.org" or call us at 847.205.9982 and arrange a visit to answer your questions. We encourage and welcome you to become part of our Temple family.