Our Congregation
Temple B'nai Brith is home to an independent egalitarian congregation
with historical roots in the Conservative movement.
We share a reverence for the traditional texts, languages,
and ways of life of the Jewish people, coupled with an awareness of the
many ways in which they may be interpreted. Our membership reflects the
wide variety of choices people make in living Jewish lives, and we are
respectful of those differences.
We are a small evolving congregation. Some of us are deeply knowledgeable about Judaism, some less so, and some are just starting to learn. We welcome those who care about enriching Jewish life in Somerville and surrounding communities.
Services and Programs
Please see the monthly ritual calendar
for more details.
Shabbat morning services: weekly at 9:15 AM. Services are led by Phil Weiss, and followed by a kiddush.
Shabbat Together: Shabbat Together services are held on the first Saturday of each month. The service is slightly shorter, with some English and some explanations of the service. Services are followed by a kiddush (light lunch).
Alternative Minyan: A shorter service of varying content organized by its members, the Alternative Minyan meets monthly, except during the summer.
Friday evening services: Held on selected weeks throughout the year, followed by an oneg shabbat.
Holiday services, celebrations and educational programs
Children's School: A progressive and traditional Sunday morning program for children of ages 5-12.
Committees
These activities are organized by committees of volunteers. All participants in the Temple community (not just members) are welcome to attend any committee meeting without obligation.Our Building
Temple B'nai Brith was built in 1922. The beautiful
hand-carved mahogany ark in the Morris and Ada Kleiman Sanctuary is one of the
oldest in New England. It came from a temple in Boston's
North End that was razed in 1915.
Nissenbaum Hall is a spacious facility we use for celebrations, social events and meetings. It is equipped with a sound system and a small stage, and is available for performances, parties, lectures and other events.
The lower level houses the William and Saul Zidel Library, several small meeting and class rooms, and Blumsack chapel.