Joining a synagogue

[Anonymous]

We want to join a temple, so that my 5 y.o. can go to Sunday School next fall. We are not particularly observant Jews, so I am not sure where to choose AND the dues seem so expensive! Any recommendations in downtown DC or Upper NW? MD/VA is out...we don't want to travel, we'd rather make some community connections in our own area.

[Anonymous]

I came across this request without any responses and since it is that time of year for High Holy Days and the start of Sunday schools, I wanted to mention my community, Temple Micah. We are a small/medium active reform congregation on Wisconsin Avenue right near Massachussetts that is less well known than some of the bigger congregations around town. We are in the process of expanding our building so there is some construction going on right now to add more space for students. It is a very participatory congregation with an emphasis on social action and forming a close-knit community. We have a creative new education director who is really energizing the Sunday school program.

For anyone needing someplace to go this year, Temple Micah has a limited number of tickets for high holy day services available by contacting the office. The contact info is at templemicah.org.

[Anonymous]

I love Temple Micah!

I'm not a member (yet) and have never been for High Holidays, but I've gone to services there and really love it.

BTW, I found out about them through their table at Pride Fest...and they have a choir!

[Anonymous]

Is Temple Micah welcoming to families where one spouse isn't Jewish? Are there many such families who are members? Thanks for any advice.

[Anonymous]

PP --Responder about Temple Micah above responding to your question: Micah is extremely welcoming to families where one spouse is non-Jewish. In fact, a substantial proportion of the congregation is in exactly that situation, including some of the more active members (i.e., past President of the Board, editor of the newsletter, etc.). The rabbi does a very heartfelt blessing at the high holy days for those non-Jews who are raising the Jewish children in our congregation and supporting our community (and there are many who do just this). To give you one concrete example, one of our dear friends from Micah who is the non-Jewish half of the couple lost his father suddenly and felt the need for spiritual support. Without question at the family's request the Rabbi did a moving shiva service for him even though neither he nor his father were Jewish. In addition to being interfaith friendly, we also have several gay/lesbian families and a number of interracial families (both from interracial marriages and from families formed through adoption).

Also, for the previous poster who has been to services, you should come visit some more and as I noted below, think about getting high holy day tickets.