Beth El Synagogue

03/16/2026

As Jewish communities everywhere process the scary news out of Michigan last week, a member of our Beth El family put into words what many of us were feeling - deep appreciation for all of our Safety and Security teams.

"Thank you to the security teams across the Twin Cities who quietly show up every single day and literally put their bodies on the line for us. You are not just employees. When we say thank you, we mean it with a depth of gratitude that is hard to put into words.

You stand with us in a world where hatred exists – but the difference is that you chose to do it. Voluntarily. That choice is profound, and it does not go unnoticed.

Somewhere along the way, you became more than the people standing watch at the doors.

You became our friends. Our family."

Read Kate's full reflections published by TC Jewfolk below.

Before this year’s preschool fundraiser, I took the time to sit down and interview our three main security guards. I already knew them well – from Saturday mornings at shul, [...]

03/08/2026

Today we mark International Women's Day and we are honored to celebrate the incredible impact of the women who serve the Beth El community!

From clergy, our leadership team and staff, Aleph preschool, volunteers, and within our board and lay-leadership - we see each of you and your work with deep gratitude and appreciation.

Beth El could not be more proud of the important trail that has been blazed for the next generation! Kol Hakavod!

03/06/2026

You won’t want to miss this Scholar In Residence weekend at Beth El!

Join us as we learn from Rabbi Mike Moskowitz and the important work he is doing as a LGBTQ+ ally.

More information and registration for Shabbat dinner at www.besyn.org

Rabbi Mike Moskowitz knows that he is not what people expect to see when they hear he’s an LGBTQ+ ally. After all, he knows that not many ultra-Orthodox-trained rabbis take [...]

02/25/2026

A message from the Rabbinical Assembly:
The Knesset has advanced legislation that strikes at the heart of Jewish unity and religious pluralism. The bill would transfer authority over all prayer at the Kotel to the ultra-Orthodox Chief Rabbinate, criminalize religious services that do not conform to its standards, and effectively dismantle the Egalitarian Kotel. If enacted, millions of Israeli and Diaspora Jews would lose meaningful access to worship at Judaism’s holiest site.

The Conservative/Masorti Movement has stood with Israel for generations, and especially since October 7th. We have answered the Prime Minister’s call to “fight” for Israel’s future. Now we must insist that Israel stand for us — and for the religious freedom of all Jews.

You can sign the Conservative/Masorti Movement petition to Prime Minister Netanyahu, President Herzog, Speaker Ohana, and members of Knesset opposing this legislation here:
https://bit.ly/4cffRGS

02/20/2026

Before we log off for Shabbat, we wanted to share reflections from Rabbi Alexander Davis and an article he wrote for TC Jewfolk

"Rather than focus on what brings us happiness, we are challenged to consider how we might bring joy to others. Rambam’s teaching on Purim calls on us to redouble our support of those in need and to understand that not in a party nor in a gift is the greatest happiness found. Rather, it is found in living a life of holiness walking in God’s ways."

With wishes of Shabbat Shalom to our entire Beth El Family!

This week, the Hebrew month of Adar arrived…just when we needed it. Adar is associated with joy, and we can use an extra measure right now. But where might we [...]

02/19/2026

We wish our Muslim friends and neighbors a blessed Ramadan as they journey through their holiest month of the year.

02/03/2026

Join us as we welcome Rabbi Naima Hirsch Gelman for a weekend of learning and conversation as we honor Repro Shabbat.

Full details and registration at www.besyn.org

01/27/2026

At long last, the remains of Ran Gvili, the final Israeli hostage, have been brought home to Israel by his fellow IDF soldiers. We welcome the closing of this chapter with heavy hearts—grateful that Ran can be laid to rest among his people after his murder by Hamas, and heartbroken that he, and so many others, did not return alive.

Even as we mourn, we also pray for the renewal of the people and the land; for healing for all who are wounded in body and spirit; for strength, resilience, and the beginning of a long process of restoration and comfort. We continue to yearn for a day when Israelis and their neighbors can live with dignity and security, and when the words of our daily prayer for peace—sim shalom ba’olam—are no longer an aspiration, but a lived reality.

May Ran Gvili’s memory be a blessing.

Photo credit to Hostages and Missing Families Forum

01/21/2026

Ahead of his upcoming show at Beth El, TC Jewfolk sat down with comedian Eitan Levine!

Eitan shares insights about his journey in comedy, particularly within the Jewish community. He discusses how his background influences his comedic style. Levine reflects on the impact of recent events, on Jewish identity and advocacy, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in connecting with audiences.

Watch his interview with TC Jewfolk and then get your tickets to see him live on February 5th at www.besyn.org!

Since Oct. 7, 2023, it's been a tough time to find a laugh. But comedian Eitan Levine has found a way. Ahead of his Feb. 5 visit to Beth El [...]

01/16/2026

Clergy members of the Minnesota Rabbinical Association share the following letter about ICE presence in Minnesota.

Wishing a Shabbat of peace and respite for all.

.וַאֲהַבְתֶּם אֶת־הַגֵּר כִּי־גֵרִים הֱיִיתֶם בְּאֶרֶץ מִצְרָיִם

01/06/2026

You've seen him on YouTube, you've crossed paths with him on social media, but who's ready to see Eitan Levine LIVE and in person at Beth El?!

Don't miss this incredible evening of laughter, community, and stand up comedy! Tickets are going fast - get yours today at www.besyn.org.

A HUGE thank you to our community sponsors - Minnesota Hillel, Minneapolis Jewish Federation, and Minnesota Jewish Community Foundation

Eitan be spreading Jewish Joy Like Free Costco Samples!

12/22/2025

You won't want to miss this hilarious evening of stand up comedy - more information and tickets on sale now at www.besyn.org!

Spreading joy like free Costco samples!