Congregation Beth Israel Judea was formed almost 50 years ago from the merger of two San Francisco Jewish institutions. Congregation Beth Israel, founded in 1860, was originally founded as an Orthodox synagogue, but subsequently became the oldest Conservative Jewish synagogue west of the Mississippi. Temple Judea, founded in 1953 was a young and growing Reform Jewish community, and the first Reform San Francisco temple built in almost 125 years. These two communities joined together to create a fulfilling synthesis of traditional ritual and contemporary Jewish practice. The congregation is a member of the Union for Reform Judaism.
…and who we are today!
We pride ourselves on our welcome and warmth. All are welcome at our services and events. BIJ is like an extended family where Jewish community is valued, not for Jews alone, but for their non-Jewish family and friends as well. At BIJ, you can find new friends, nurture your faith, and serve the Jewish people in the Bay Area and around the world.
We know how important it is to find a spiritual home, and we invite you to come and join us and help us make a difference in our synagogue and its programs.
It’s all up to you. Come be a part of our San Francisco Bay Area Jewish community. You are welcome!