Who We Are
Beth El is a warm, friendly and vibrant congregation located in South Orange, New Jersey. In addition to our home town, members come from the surrounding communities of Maplewood, West Orange, Millburn/Short Hills, Livingston and from various towns in Morris and Union counties.
We are a dynamic, egalitarian, Conservative synagogue, with a strong commitment to inspiring learning, engaging worship, and pursuing social justice. We welcome people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds to join us on our journey -- learned and novice; born-jewish, Jew-by-choice, or non-Jew living Jewish; single or partnered; gay or straight. We hope all that enter find a Makom Kodesh -- a Holy Space -- in which to seek God, connection, and community.
Beth El is a member of the Big Tent Judaism Coalition of Inclusive Congregations and is committed to welcoming everyone who walks through our doors. We offer a wide range of religious, educational and social activities for all ages -- from toddlers to seniors, and for all walks of life -- from newlyweds to empty nesters and interfaith families to the LGBTQ community. We want everyone to feel comfortable at Beth El, so let us know if we're missing something!
We invite you to come and meet Rabbi, Jesse Olitzky and experience a Shabbat service or any of our wide range of programs and special events. Please introduce yourself. We're sure we'll connect. It happens all the time. We can't explain it, you'll have to see for yourself.