Our membership rolls list over 400 families, representing a broad, cross-section of the Westchester Jewish community. We have a heterogeneous congregation in both age and religious background. We draw our congregational family from a broad spectrum of interesting, energetic people from a diverse professional world. We consider ourselves to be an inclusive congregational family, welcoming everyone who desires a positive, uplifting and dynamic Reform Jewish experience in which there is ample opportunity for individual participation and involvement.
When you become a member of Congregation Emanu-El of Westchester, you become part of a vibrant and caring Jewish community where you can grow spiritually and intellectually, enrich your Jewish identity, engage in meaningful acts of social justice, share holidays and joyous occasions with your multigenerational congregational family, and count on its support in times of need, and make lifelong friends. Benefits of membership at Congregation Emanu-El of Westchester include:
- The privilege of pastoral care, including the services of our clergy for lifecycle events and in times of difficulty and bereavement
- Complimentary tickets for High Holy Day worship services
- Eligibility for enrollment of your children in our religious school
- Subscription to our EmanuMail and bulletins
- Membership in the Union for Reform Judaism, the national organization of the Reform Movement
- A broad array of worship, educational, cultural and social opportunities for members of all ages
For additional information please contact Abbie Levitt.
A Place of Innovative Worship
Whether it is the weekly Shabbat Services or the seasonal holidays, the worship experience at Congregation Emanu-El of Westchester is both inspiring and uplifting. In the spirit of Reform Judaism we take new and innovative approaches to the worship experience whether through the liturgy or the musical accompaniments. In addition to the traditional prayers, the rabbi incorporates readings from a variety of religious and secular sources. Our Cantor enhances the spoken word with both modern and traditional music. Through the beauty of her own voice, she encourages the congregation to join with her in the traditional responses and also teaches new and exciting melodies for communal participation.
A Source of Creative Education
Led and directed by our dynamic educator, Jade Ross, the religious school is a place of creative teaching using a curriculum that inspires our children to develop their Jewish identity in an enjoyable and fun filled setting. Using the latest in technology, as well as the tried and true methods of pedagogy, our teaching staff motivates our children in the challenges of a dynamic religious heritage. Whether the subject is Hebrew, history, the Bible, holidays or customs and ceremonies, our teaching staff seeks creative and innovative ways to present the subject matter. Techniques ranging from computers to field trips and retreats, supplement the normal classroom experience.
A Place of Interesting Activities
In addition to being a house of worship and education, Congregation Emanu-El of Westchester is also a house of assembly for a variety of stimulating activities. Our Adult Education program encompasses a variety of educational experiences ranging from Bagel Brunches on Sundays to evening courses in Judaism, customs and ceremonies, contemporary issues and literature. Through the Women’s Study Group, Sisterhood, Single Malt Torah, Next Step Group, Youth Group and Social Action Committee, one can become involved in programs that support our commitment to community service.
We Welcome Interfaith Families
Since 1986 Congregation Emanu-El of Westchester has been known as one of the most welcoming congregations for interfaith families. Our staff of clergy, educators and synagogue professionals are committed to helping families whose members come from different faith traditions navigate the waters of life as an interfaith family. Holiday and Sabbath celebrations, life-cycle events, religious education and all other areas of synagogue programming present opportunities for your family to be a part of our dynamic congregation.
A Beautiful Environment
Our building is ideally located at the corner of Westchester Avenue East and Kenilworth Road, and easily accessible from all the communities in central and southern Westchester County. Located on over seven acres of secluded, wooded property, the present sanctuary was dedicated in 1972. The distinctive architecture of the sanctuary blends in harmoniously with the natural beauty of the surrounding environment.
