Temple Beth Or

I grew up in a very conservative orthodox leaning congregation that was traditional. You did not approach the Clergy or dare speak unless spoken to. Women were not allowed to participate fully. Hebrew was the only language the prayers were in so if you did not understand you missed the point of everything. Everything was very serious and it was not a fuzzy place to be. When I looked for a synagogue to join, I wanted a warm welcoming non judge mental accepting congregation who was egalitarian and friendly. Hebrew and English are used. Prayers are the same as in conservative synagogues except some melodies maybe different. I wanted my daughters to be treated equally under the religion and be able to participate in anything they chose to. here they are equal and encouraged. Never thought of the Reform movement prior to walking into TBO but once I was in, I was in for good. I felt at home, people were warm and friendly and genuinely concerned and happy here. The Cantor has an angelic voice and spirit to match. The Rabbi is warm and engaging full of smiles. Kids love them as do the adults. Everyone is treated with respect and we all matter. Congregation is made up of over 400 member families and growing. Congregants span the ages and the religious school is bursting with happy kids who want to be here and return to help and continue their education after B’nai Mitzvah age. There is so much Ruach at Temple Beth OR that I know it is the perfect place to educate my children and atttend. If you want a second home in Bergen County that you love to come back to relax in and meet wonderful people, this is it.

I grew up going to this synagogue and it has only flourished and grown since I was there. The Rabbi gives wonderful and thoughtful sermons, and is a commanding speaker. The Cantor has a lovely voice and does great music programming with the choir and other members of the community. The environment is very welcoming, and they make a huge effort to make new members feel welcome and happy. Although the leadership has changed, and things are updated, it will always be my religious «home» so to speak, I mean, besides Jew Camp and all. Seriously, if you are looking for a congregation to belong to, this is one great place.

Welcoming Reform Synagogue in central Bergen County pulling members from Montvale, Woodcliffe Lake, Westwood, Hillsdale, Upper Saddle River, Township of Washington, Paramus, Ridgewood and Fairlawn. Rabbi Ruth Zlotnick is the religious leader and Irene Bolton is the Director of Life Long Learning.