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

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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

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.

Judging Others, Judging Ourselves

Judging Others, Judging Ourselves jemerman

One year ago, I wrote a reflection about the label "Judgement Days" for the time between Rosh HaShanah and the end of Yom Kippur. Since then, we only need to say a date out loud to realize how dramatically our world has changed: October 7th.

Creating High Holiday Memories for Children

Creating High Holiday Memories for Children sdolgov

Finding ways to make the High Holidays meaningful for your child is an important way to nurture their Jewish identity. There are many ways to celebrate at home, like reading books, making crafts, or discussing what the holiday means to you and them.

Jewish Pride + Jewish Community = Strong Jewish Future

Jewish Pride + Jewish Community = Strong Jewish Future jemerman

In North America, our community has been dealing with rising levels of antisemitism and fears about being attacked for the crime of being Jewish. It was against this backdrop that I arrived in the safe haven that is URJ's Crane Lake Camp.