Interfaith Families

Interfaith Families Are Always Welcome at Beth Hillel Bnai Emunah

BHBE is a dynamic, inclusive congregation that invites members of all backgrounds to participate in our community.

These days many Jews live in some form of an interfaith family whether the non-Jewish individual is a spouse, son or daughter-in-law, grandchild, or cousin. Keruv (“bringing near”) seeks to address the needs of these families, helping to ensure that our synagogue is welcoming to all and providing resources to strengthen both family and Jewish life.

If you are an interfaith couple or someone whose life has been touched by an interfaith relationship and would like to learn more about Keruv efforts at BHBE, please contact our Keruv consultants at office@bhbe.org or Rabbi Nate Crane, rabbi@bhbe.org, 847-256-1213. Please also see below for the many different ways you might choose to become involved in our congregation:

Worship with Us!
Weekday, Shabbat, and holiday services are open to members of all faiths and we welcome you to join us anytime. If you are less familiar with the service, we would be happy to have an ambassador sit with you during worship. Transliterated copies of the siddur (prayer book) are also available in the back of the Sanctuary and a card with information about our service is found in the back of every seat.

Celebrate with Us!
As a couple affiliated with BHBE, we welcome you to mark life cycle events like baby namings,b’nai mitzvah and more here in our community. Individuals not of the Jewish faith can participate in these ceremonies in various ways. Rabbi Tucker is always available to discuss options for celebrating together.

Lean on Us in Difficult Times!
In the event that a non-Jewish spouse affiliated with our congregation loses a loved one, Rabbi Crane is always available for comfort and support. Judaism offers much in the way of mourning practices and many Jewish traditions are universal in their ability to provide solace at a time of loss.

Learn with Us!
One need not be Jewish to take advantage of the many diverse cultural and educational opportunities offered by our synagogue, and everyone is welcome to attend our many, varied programs and classes. We also welcome the opportunity to help provide your child with a Jewish education and would be happy to meet with you to discuss our excellent Academy (Religious School program) for students K-12.

Let Us Get to Know You!
We would love to meet you for a cup of coffee and to learn more about your family. Please be in touch at any time.

Sincerely,

Rabbi Nate Crane
Rabbi@bhbe.org

Christmas with the Weschlers By Rabbi Annie Tucker: Click Here to read

Shavuoth Sermon by Dianne Lehman Goldman:  Click Here to read

Click Here for Keruv Resources and info!