Whether you are new in town or trying to find a way to connect deeper to your faith, finding a new synagogue for your family can feel overwhelming. It’s what will help you build up your community and ensure your traditions are passed along to your child. Of course, you’re not going to take this decision lightly! As a Bellevue Mitzvah photographer, I have gotten the chance to speak to tons of local families about their home synagogues, and I would love to help you out if you’re currently trying to find the right one for your family. Here are two of the Mercer Island synagogues my clients have come to love.
Find Your New Community At These Wonderful Mercer Island Synagogues
Island Synagogue
8685 SE 47th Street, Mercer Island, Washington 98040
Island Synagogue strives to be a welcoming Mercer Island space for Jewish people of all backgrounds. The Modern Orthodox congregation has options for families of every observance level and works to “shevet achim” or dwell together. Their congregation is a diverse group of people from across Bellevue.
Before you get involved with the synagogue, you can take a class to find out more about their beliefs. These classes are available both in-person and virtually. The teacher, Rabbi Yechezkel Kornfield, also offers meetings 7 days a week so you can schedule a time to find out everything you need to know. They use a helpful app that lets you make donations and check the calendar. The synagogue offers regular events that will help you connect with the community. You can come and chat as you enjoy activities such as face painting, balloon animals, and live music.
Herzl-Ner Tamid
3700 East Mercer Way, Mercer Island, Washington 98040
Herzl-Ner Tamid is a Conservative Congregation that works to connect Jewish people from across the globe. The Mercer Island synagogue holds fast to its belief that its congregation is its home. It welcomes Jewish families of all backgrounds regardless of their age, gender, or family configuration. It is socially progressive, offering plenty of opportunities to support people within the community. It also offers a Mitzvah Corps that can provide your family with meals or lend you assistance with appointments.
Herzl-Ner Tamid provides your family with lots of ways to connect. Their Frankel Religious School offers education programs for kids from Pre-K through the 12th grade. Your child will meet several times a week to learn all the values and actions that come with Judaism. The synagogue also offers fun community events, including needlecraft, Pride celebrations, and book clubs.
You Will Love The Community At These Fantastic Mercer Island Synagogues
With the right Mercer Island synagogues, your family will have a profound way to connect with your faith. Visit one of these soon so you can decide if this is the community for you.
I would love to connect if you’re looking for more ways to celebrate your traditions! I am a Bellevue photographer, and I adore getting to work with families to help them remember all the major moments. Whether you’re looking for portraits for your child’s Mitzvah or senior pictures for their graduation, I have just the option for you. If you’d like to learn more, let’s have a conversation so I can tell you all about it!
