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Vision & Values

To be THE vital center for traditional egalitarian Jewish living and learning in Boston’s south area and beyond.

Sacred Community/Kehilah Kedusha

קהילה קדושה
דַּבֵּ֞ר אֶל־כׇּל־עֲדַ֧ת בְּנֵי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל וְאָמַרְתָּ֥ אֲלֵהֶ֖ם קְדֹשִׁ֣ים תִּהְי֑וּ כִּ֣י קָד֔וֹשׁ אֲנִ֖י ה׳ אֱלֹהֵיכֶֽם׃
Speak to the whole Israelite community and say to them: You shall be holy, for I, the LORD your God, am holy. (Leviticus 19:2)

Inclusion/Kavod haBriyot

כבוד הבריות
בשבילי נברא את העולם- For my sake was the world created (Sanhedrin 37a)

Joy/Simcha

שמחה
a. מצוה גדולה להיות בשמח תמיד- it’s a great mitzvah to always be joyful (Likutei Maharan 2:24)
b. מרבים בשמחה- increasing in joy (M.Taanit 4:6)
c. עִבְדוּ אֶת-ה׳ בְּשִׂמְחָה- Serve God with Joy (Psalm 100:2)

Jewish Peoplehood/K'lal Yisrael

כלל ישראל
כל ישראל ערבים זה בזה - all of Israel is responsible for one another (Shevuot 39a)

Engagement/M’oravut

מערבות
ללמוד וללמד לשמר ולעשות - We learn and teach and guard and do or “ We pray we teach we learn we do” (Ahavah Rabbah- before morning Shma)
b. לעסוק בדברי תורה

Social Action/Tikun Olam

תיקון עולם
עולם חסד יבנה - We will build the world with loving-kindness (Psalm 89:3)
לתקן את העולם במלכות שדי- to repair the world through God’s Sovereignty

Who We Are

Temple Israel is a mid-sized synagogue with a big heart. We are a vibrant, spiritual, welcoming, joyful, and inclusive community serving the South Area of Greater Boston. We offer a variety of engagement opportunities for your mind, heart, and soul.

Discover a wealth of classes and activities tailored to keep your mind engaged, regardless of your age or interests. From adult education courses to social action projects, there’s something for everyone.

As a Temple member, you’ll enjoy a calendar filled with holiday-related events, family programs, and events run by our community throughout the year. Our Sisterhood Walter Family Judaica Shop offers a range of religious and artistic giftware. Plus, our tasteful banquet halls and kosher kitchen are available for celebrating family Simchas (celebrations).

Temple Israel is a diverse spiritual community that welcomes all. Whether you’re participating in our Learners’ Minyan, children’s services, or family services, or simply finding solace during High Holy Day services, you’ll feel the warmth and vibrancy of our congregation. Our clergy are dedicated to guiding and supporting you on your journey of exploring and strengthening your Jewish identity.