At Beth El Synagogue, we offer both Conservative and Orthodox worship experiences, welcoming all to participate in either community.
Our Conservative Services are conducted in an egalitarian manner, primarily in Hebrew with English translations and transliterations provided. Collaborating with the rabbi, both men and women take active roles, leading services, serving as gabbaim, and reading Torah and Haftarah. Lay-led services create an inclusive atmosphere, encouraging anyone who has completed a Bar or Bat Mitzvah to participate as a prayer leader.
Conservative services occur in the main sanctuary three to four times weekly:
- Saturday mornings at 9:30 am
- Sunday mornings at 9:30 am
- Wednesday mornings at 8:00 am (7:45 am on Rosh Chodesh), followed by Mishnah Study
- Select Friday evenings at 6:00 pm (Please check the calendar for details)
Members of our Orthodox Community lead services every Shabbat and on holidays in our Orthodox sanctuary, beginning at 9:00 am. These services adhere to traditional Orthodox ritual and liturgy and take place in our downstairs Chapel. For more information about the Orthodox Kehillah click here.
Beth El is committed to accommodating individuals with special needs. Please contact the office in advance if your family would like to be paired with a “buddy.”
Beth El welcomes anyone with special needs. Please contact the office in advance if your family would like to be partnered with a “buddy.”
To request an honor during services or to recognize a special life cycle event, please email the gabbaim at aliyot@betheldurham.org.
Please Note:
- The use of cameras, video equipment, and cell phones is prohibited during Shabbat services.
- All men are kindly requested to wear kippot during services.
