History

In keeping with our mission statement, the congregants of BYBS recognize that we have a unique relationship to each other and consider ourselves a caring Jewish community, a kehillat chesed. As a congregational family and spiritual community, we accept the obligation to support our members during challenging times, for example by assisting families experiencing difficult periods of transition in their lives.

Examples of these occasions may include the birth of a child, serious illness, death of a loved one, or becoming a caregiver for a relative or other loved one. Our caring can take the form of a telephone call, providing meals, or a visit, if desired by those needing support.  Please contact the temple office if you need such assistance—or if you wish to offer support to others. You can be certain your concerns will be handled with confidentiality. 
 
The mitzvah of caring belongs to everyone in the congregation. Remember, any member can attend a shiva or minyan, make a phone call, write a note, visit a housebound person, drop off a meal, or offer a ride. 

As a caring community, we also share the joys of celebrating together at life-cycle events and holidays, and we create bonds with one another through temple involvement.

BYBS is an inclusive Reform Jewish community that embraces both the challenges and opportunities of contemporary Jewish living. By fostering lay leadership and volunteerism, Torah (learning), Avodah (worship), and G’milut Chasadim (caring acts), we strengthen our Jewish identity, enhance our congregation, and deepen our commitment to Israel, the broader Jewish community, and Tikkun Olam (repairing the world).

B’nai Yehuda Beth Sholom Is… A doorway to Jewish living B’nai Yehuda Beth Sholom, a Reform congregation, is a strong link in the unbroken chain of Jewish life. More than a consecrated building, the temple is a doorway to Jewish living in the southern suburbs of Chicago. Join us in honoring the past and celebrating the future at a synagogue with rich traditions and open doors.

Exodus 25.8: “Let them make Me a sanctuary that I may dwell among them.” A place of welcome We greet you warmly, whether you come as a guest, a newcomer to our congregation, or an old friend returning for a visit. We welcome you to our Shabbat services held on Friday nights and Saturday mornings (see Service Schedule) . Once a month, the Friday evening service is an informal Family Shabbat at which the Youth Choir sings, and the Rabbi offers birthday blessings for children and adults born that month. Other informal services and programs throughout the year are designed to make it easier for new and prospective members to get to know our congregation and members.  A member: “When I enter the synagogue, I feel an immediate sense of warmth.”

A home for Jewish life Our mission statement begins: “B’nai Yehuda Beth Sholom is an inclusive Reform Jewish community that embraces both the challenges and opportunities of contemporary Jewish living.” Our members come together to worship and support each other, bringing varied life experiences, perspectives, and ideas. All voices and viewpoints are heard and honored. From social events to social action, you will find opportunities to become active and your contributions will be appreciated and valued. We strive continually to identify and meet the varied needs of a diverse membership that includes families, singles, interfaith couples, Jews by choice, various ethnic groups, and people of all ages, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.  To ensure that all voices are heard and that everyone feels involved, we also enhance our congregation “by fostering lay leadership and volunteerism.” A member: “Sisterhood is not just a word, but a feeling.”

A place of learning for our children Our Religious School fosters a dynamic educational experience in Jewish family life. Our children are introduced to worship in ways designed to create a lifelong commitment to prayer, study, and celebration. The curriculum builds from year to year, involving students in Jewish texts, history, holidays, life cycle observances, ethics, and values. Our High School program includes confirmation at the end of tenth grade. Children begin afternoon Hebrew School in the third grade. The United Hebrew School, operated jointly with Congregation Am Echad, provides our children with a unique experience, helping them learn our sacred language and grow as members of our larger Jewish community.  A member: “[We] build upon our ancient kindred spirits to pass down our heritage to future generations as demanded of us in the Torah.”
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