Congregation Beth El-Keser Israel

Overview

Congregation Beth El-Keser Israel, known as BEKI, is a nonprofit organization and a Jewish congregation located in the Greater New Haven area. The congregation was formed through the merger of Congregation Beth El and Temple Keser Israel in 1968.

History

Congregation Beth El was originally established as Bnai Israel in 1892. Over time, it grew and evolved, contributing significantly to the Jewish community in New Haven.

Temple Keser Israel was founded by a group of Jewish families residing in the Dixwell Avenue neighborhood in the late 1890s and early 1900s. These families united to form a small congregation that initially held services in various homes. They eventually purchased a synagogue on Foote Street, where they worshipped for many years. Keser Israel experienced significant growth, expanding from 19 families to over 350 by the mid-20th century.

The merger of Congregation Beth El and Temple Keser Israel in 1968 created the Congregation Beth El-Keser Israel. This union marked a significant milestone in the Jewish community, combining the traditions and strengths of both congregations.

Mission and Programs

BEKI is an egalitarian congregation that warmly welcomes Jews of all backgrounds, races, and gender identities. The congregation emphasizes inclusivity, particularly for interfaith families and individuals from diverse Jewish learning levels. BEKI's religious school, BINA, provides comprehensive Jewish education for students in grades K-6, focusing on Hebrew language, Jewish history, holiday rituals, and values.

Rabbi Eric Woodward, who became the spiritual leader in June 2021, fosters an environment that encourages participation and learning. The congregation offers various educational programs, including Torah discussions, Talmud classes, and adult learning opportunities.

Community Activities

BEKI hosts a range of community events and services, including daily in-person services from Sunday to Friday, as well as Zoom services for remote participants. The congregation supports children's programs, such as the Children's Havura and Junior Congregation, led by volunteer parents and grandparents.

BEKI's Art Gallery features an exhibition celebrating the congregation's history, showcasing historic photographs and documents related to the founding and merger of the congregations.

Membership and Leadership

BEKI has a diverse membership of over three hundred families, with many members residing in the New Haven area, including neighborhoods like Westville, East Rock, and Beaver Hills. The congregation actively encourages participation, welcoming both new converts to Judaism and those in interfaith relationships. Rabbi Eric Woodward's leadership emphasizes inclusivity and community engagement, making BEKI a vibrant and growing part of the local Jewish community.

[1] https://www.beki.org/beki-history/more-history-of-keser-israel/ [2] https://www.woodbridgetownnews.com/news/beth-el---keser-israel-events-for-january-2025 [3] https://www.woodbridgetownnews.com/news/beth-el-keser-israel-events-for-february-2025 [4] https://www.jewishnewhaven.org/about-us/jewish-new-haven/congregation-beth-el-keser-israel [5] https://www.beki.org/beki-history/