Congregation Sinai's mission is to connect Jews to Judaism, each other, Israel, and the world. Whether you are local or from out-of-town, we hope you'll make us your Jewish home and family in San Jose! In just one visit, you will experience the special warmth and "ruach" (spirit) of our community and our Rabbi.
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We'd love to have you join the Sinai family!
Becoming a member of Sinai means:
becoming a part of a friendly Jewish community that enjoys being together, and cares for each other in good times and bad
supporting and enjoying our programs, religious services and celebrations, and learning for all ages on our beautiful campus
enabling our wonderful rabbi and staff to be there for us and with us every year
Please complete this form or call Joelle Pluemer at 408-264-8543 to discuss any questions you might have and to arrange a visit.
Membership fees include High Holy Day tickets for members and dependent children 23 and younger, for all membership categories except Associate. Dues only cover 41% of our costs, but if they would impose too high a burden for your situation, we have a confidential process for an adjustment.
FAMILY - Two adults in the same household, with or without children, or one adult with children - $2525
INDIVIDUAL - One adult in a household, without children - $1260
YOUNG ADULT - One single adult under 30 years old, without children - $190
YOUNG ADULT COUPLE - Two adults in the same household, both under 30 years old, without children - $385
SENIOR INDIVIDUAL - One adult in a household, aged 65 or older - $975
SENIOR COUPLE - Two adults in the same household, both aged 65 or older - $1950
ASSOCIATE - For those who want to support Sinai while being full members of another congregation - $600
FAMILY - Yearly: $165; Cap: $1980
INDIVIDUAL - Yearly: $67; Cap: $800
YOUNG ADULT COUPLE OR INDIVIDUAL - No assessment
SENIOR INDIVIDUAL - Yearly: $45; Cap: $540
SENIOR COUPLE - Yearly: $80; Cap: $960
ASSOCIATE - No assessment
An annual security fee of $160 is assessed to help cover increased security costs.
It is wonderful that you are interested in exploring Judaism. Anyone can become a Jew, regardless of age, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation. All it takes is an eagerness to join the Jewish people and a desire to take on the responsibilities of Jewish life.
Congregation Sinai is a wonderful, supportive community, whether you are curious about conversion or have already begun the process. Many of our most active members and leaders are Jews-By-Choice.
The conversion process involves three main areas:
Prospective Jews-By-Choice enroll in the Silicon Valley Introduction to Judaism course. This course is offered annually, beginning in the Fall after the High Holidays. Rabbi Berkenwald, along with Rabbis from other local synagogues, teaches this weekly course that is designed to introduce students to Jewish history, practice, and belief. Click here for more information.
To become, Jewish, it is crucial to get involved in the community. A great first step is to begin attending Shabbat services on Saturday mornings. Make sure you stay for lunch afterwards, as this is a great time to get to know members of the community.
Judaism is lived on a daily basis. It directs our lives from the moment we awake to when we lie down at night. It governs our lives from the most mundane activities (what we eat, how we conduct ourselves in business, etc.) to the most sublime (prayer). Embarking on a journey into Judaism will involve the gradual incorporation of Jewish practices into your daily life.
Most conversion journeys take at least a year, although every person’s path is unique. A great first step is to contact Rabbi Berkenwald to set up a meeting. Be sure to bring lots of questions.
