Membership

Thank you for your interest in Congregation Beth El. The strength of our synagogue is its membership. As part of our obligation to create a kehillah kedoshah – a holy community – we each must assume the responsibility of helping meet the financial requirements of our synagogue. Our member’s financial obligation is based on a dues schedule, with different categories designed to accommodate the diversity of our congregation.

Everyone can afford membership at Beth El. Financial assistance for dues is available on a confidential basis. Financial capability is never a barrier to membership. To discuss special financial arrangements, please call our Executive Director, Stuart Skolnick.

Membership Categories

Membership runs from July 1 – June 30 each year. Dues are pro-rated for those joining mid-year. Please call Interim Executive Director Mary Beth Goff, in the office at 973-763-0111 or stop by to see him to discuss which category you fit into and the specific dues for that category.

• Household Membership
  A household headed by one or more adults of the Jewish faith.
• Individual Membership
  Individual membership is for one individual adult of the Jewish faith.
• Under Age 36 (oldest member in household)
  This category allows for a graduated dues schedule. The plan is deeply discounted in Year One and increases in Year Two until it reaches full membership dues in Year Three (Year Two rate only applies if oldest member is under age 36).
• Associate Membership
  For members who have moved out of New Jersey but would like to remain a non-voting member and receive all synagogue mailings.
• Newlyweds
  A complimentary one-year membership for any couple married by Rabbi Roston.

Building Fund

This is a one-time contribution for all new members, payable over a five year period. This fund is intended to help with the on-going maintenance of our facility, which our older members helped to create.

The Jewish Learning Center and Thelma K. Reisman Preschool

Tuition for these school programs is additional with enrollment offered to all members in good standing. School tuitions are discounted for members. Please see the Education section of our website for more information or call the individual directors.

High Holy Day Tickets

Couples receive two High Holy Day tickets and individuals receive one High Holy Day ticket as part of their membership privileges. Minor children do not need tickets. For additional tickets or reserved seating, please call the office for more information.

Membership Application

To view or download our membership application, click here. To submit this application, please drop it off or mail it to Congregation Beth El, 222 Irvington Avenue, South Orange, NJ 07079. Please feel free to email Marcy Felfesenfeld or Dina Stambler, our Membership co-chairs with any additional questions.

Keep Informed

To be added to our email list and receive weekly information about programs, life cycle events, holiday service schedules, etc., please email Mary Beth Goff in the Beth El office. If you would like to receive synagogue mailings, please advise Mary Beth as well.