Seeking a Reform Synagogue: Beth El vs Temple Sinai
Hi- We moved to the bay from the East Coast (NYC) and are looking to join a reform temple to connect with the Jewish community and help our children develop their Jewish identity. I was wondering if someone could tell me the difference (in their opinion) between Beth El (Berkeley) and Temple Sinai (Oakland) -- we live relatively close to both. Specially, I would love to know about the religious school programs and youth education. My kids are young and want them to be excited and engaged in a great program where they can learn and also make great friends! On the surface, the temples seem pretty similar to me so I would love to hear personal experiences of both of them. Thanks so much!
Aug 12, 2022
Parent Replies
We are in a similar situation and decided on Sinai after exploring both options. Sinai felt vibrant, inclusive, and dynamic. Beth El felt a slower paced, older, less dynamic. Beth El does run Camp Kee Tov which is fabulous, but you can attend even without belonging to Beth El (many, many kids do).
Hello! Welcome to the East Bay! We’re a very happy Temple Sinai family. Our older son will be starting religious school this fall, so we’re new to that aspect, but we’ve loved our years with the preschool. When we’ve attended Friday night services, everyone is warm and welcoming. We’re an interfaith family and we look forward to raising our kids with the Temple Sinai community.