Welcome to B'nai Israel Synagogue

On behalf of our entire congregation, I would like to say welcome. No matter what brings you to Rochester, we want to be your Jewish home. Whether you and your family are relocating to Rochester or you are visiting Rochester to receive care at one of our local medical clinics and hospitals, we look forward to seeing you. B’nai Israel Synagogue provides worship services and holiday celebrations, education programs, congregational activities and hospitality to all who enter our doors.

As Rabbi, I serve both as spiritual leader of B’nai Israel Synagogue and Jewish chaplain of Mayo Clinic. Bridging the gap between practical and spiritual needs is an integral part of our mission. In other words, we are here to help.

Since our congregation was established over one hundred years ago, many things have changed in Rochester, but our commitment to warmly welcome those living in or visiting southeastern Minnesota has not.

I look forward to welcoming you to our Jewish home.

-Rabbi Michelle
rabbi@bnaiisraelmn.org

bnai

Our Mission: 

Be a welcoming Jewish home for members, visitors and the local community for worship, 

study, friendship and support to increase the understanding and appreciation of Judaism.

From the Union For Reform Judaism / Reform Movement

From Scared to Sacred: Healing Our Collective Trauma in the New Year

From Scared to Sacred: Healing Our Collective Trauma in the New Year jemerman

Rabbi Rick Schechter reflects on the effects of prolonged, ongoing trauma and how the values of compassion and gratitude offer a path to communal and individual healing.

Two Years Later: Memory and Meaning on October 7th

Two Years Later: Memory and Meaning on October 7th jemerman

Two years after the October 7th attacks, Rabbi Josh Weinberg shares five lessons drawn from Jewish wisdom and challenges us to transform collective grief into purpose.

Resources for Marking the Anniversary of October 7th

Resources for Marking the Anniversary of October 7th jemerman

These materials include readings, interviews, and more that reflect on the year that has passed since the October 7th attacks.

What I Wish I Still Didn’t Understand

What I Wish I Still Didn’t Understand jemerman

As I continued to watch antisemitism and Christian nationalism rise, I found myself worrying about how to best keep my loved ones safe and wondered if my great grandmother had the same thoughts.