Seeking a synagogue in the Bay Area

August 15, 2023 2:52 PM

Hi! Looking for a synagogue in the Bay Area that might suit someone in their early 30s w/o kids. Only real requirement is that it be egalitarian. Appreciate any suggestions!
posted by DavidNYC to Religion & Philosophy (9 answers total)

where in the bay area
posted by fingersandtoes at 2:56 PM on August 15, 2023 [2 favorites]

There are a bunch of viable options - conservative egalitarian, independent (reconstructionist/conservative/reform medley), reconstructionist, reform... several in Palo Alto come to mind; more options still in SF... I'm sure someone is doing interesting stuff in Oakland, too. But that's to second the "where in the Bay area?" question.
posted by Lady Li at 3:20 PM on August 15, 2023 [1 favorite]

Agreed that a more specific location would be helpful, but I am familiar with people from Kehilla Synagogue in Oakland because they are in a faith trio with my very progressive Christian church and a local Islamic Community Center. Everyone I've interacted with from Kehilla has been lovely. Even if they aren't close to you, they might have recommendations for like minded synagogues in the region.
posted by mostlymartha at 4:24 PM on August 15, 2023

Response by poster: Sausalito but willing to travel.
posted by DavidNYC at 4:48 PM on August 15, 2023

When I visit, I go to Sha'ar Zahav for a very queer and friendly group.

But agreed with others that I don't know what to suggest without more context on what you're looking for.
posted by vasi at 7:17 PM on August 15, 2023

I know the rabbi at Temple Beth Sholom - Josh Weisman - in San Leandro. He's wonderful. He was a rabbinic fellow at my shul for a few years. He will run a meaningful, spiritual, and egalitarian service. Is that close enough? Only you can say.
posted by brookeb at 7:38 PM on August 15, 2023

Response by poster: Just trying to get a sampling of shuls people like! If the list of egal synagogues in the area that you might recommend with is too long to post here (and I can certainly understand if so), then I'd be grateful to know, say, your top three in terms of where you personally like to attend. I am much obliged.
posted by DavidNYC at 7:53 PM on August 15, 2023

Chochmat HaLev in Berkeley is wonderful!
posted by danceswithlight at 8:58 PM on August 15, 2023

Beth Am and Etz Chayim are the ones I'm most familiar with in Palo Alto, if that's not too far to go.
posted by Lady Li at 12:42 AM on August 16, 2023