Congregation Beth Israel — Attraction in West Hartford

I would have given a five if I was asked before Rosh Hashana. Unfortunately, I am not able to go to Elizabeth Park due to being handicapped. I had to endure a service I couldn't recognize as a Reform jew. The music was beautiful, the canto sang beautifully, the sermon was excellent; but the service was meaningless. There was no participation. There were very few prayers in english. We jumped all over the prayer book and sometimes the Rabbi couldn't find the page. I have been going to Haas hall for the traditional Reform service. I now question my desire to attend Yom Kippur services and my membership in a synagogue that is straying too far from its Germanic reform roots. I have been a contributor but will not be anymore, at least until I can say i recognize the service. there are enough Conservative synagogues i West Hartford. We don't need another one. I have spoken to a number of my friends who have the same opinion ...

I have been a member of Beth Israel for about thirty-five years. I have formed a great many close friendships there and it has truly become my social center. In addition to its excellent religious school and a truly outstanding clergy team, Beth Israel has an open and welcoming feel to it. I have found that it goes out of its way to make everyone feel comfortable from the moment they enter the building.

Beth Israel has a long and storied presence in Greater Hartford but it is every bit a contemporary Reform synagogue. Although firmly grounded in its classical roots, Beth Israel has evolved with the times. Overall, I find it to be a vibrant, engaging, socially conscious congregation that I am proud to call my...

I had the great fortune of photographing a wedding ceremony there this past weekend. I was so moved by the way in which the Rabbi conducted the ceremony. He had the ability to relax everyone and get us all focused on the purity and meaning of the ceremony in a way that was moving and perceptive to modern life. I photograph many Jewish ceremonies and I was very touched and honored to hear this Rabbi speak. The architecture and interior of the synagogue itself is inspiring and breathtaking. A true treasure to have this synagogue in...