Join Us
We Welcome You to Our Community!
We are an inclusive and welcoming community for all — families, couples and singles, Jews of color, Jews by choice, interfaith couples, LGBTQ+ people, and those on vastly different spiritual journeys. Our members reflect the diversity of the Bay Area and the beauty of God’s infinite creation. We come from all walks of life and many different religious, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Our programs are designed to meet the varied spiritual, religious, educational and social needs of our members. We are committed to study (Torah), worship (Avodah) and working to repair the world (Tikkun Olam). We also believe in strengthening our connections to a peaceful, strong and vibrant Israel.
We are proud to have been a part of the San Francisco community since 1850. While our history provides us with a rich heritage, embracing new congregants ensures that we will be here to serve generations to come. You are the future of Emanu-El.
“Hillel said: ‘Separate not thyself from the community’…”
Pirke Avot, 4:7
Why Join?
Benefits of Membership Include:
- High Holy Day tickets and Sanctify-Ark Moments
- Emanu-El B’Bayit Groups (small group offerings)
- Discounted classes and program fees
- Member-only programs
- Life cycle events and care from clergy
- Discounted facility rentals for life cycle events
- Temple Chronicle subscription
- Opportunity to join the Tikkun Emanu-El Shuk (local small business support)
- Priority Preschool admissions
- Opportunity to enroll in Youth and Family Education/Bnei Mitzvah Program
Remember, membership should never be a burden. We make it possible for everyone to join, regardless of financial circumstances. To learn more, please reach out to Director of Member Experience Ariana Estoque at [email protected] or 415-750-7552.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find “my people” within the larger Emanu-El community?
There are many ways to become involved with our Emanu-El community and to become acquainted with other congregants. There are many opportunities to connect with smaller groups and find people with common interests. Our membership and engagement team will help you find your pathway and your people. Other ways to get involved include: education, social justice, and various community events in your neighborhood and beyond.
How do I connect with clergy, educators and staff?
We encourage you to get to know our rabbis, cantors, educators, executive director, membership and engagement directors, and other staff by attending Shabbat services and by your active involvement in our programs and activities. You may also request a private meeting with any of our staff.
What about membership dues?
At Congregation Emanu-El, the first year of membership dues are voluntary – you pay what you wish. After the first year, we offer suggested dues commitment levels, based on your age and family size/structure. You will not be charged additional fees for security, maintenance, or other temple costs. You are encouraged to pay whatever you are able, whether it is higher or lower than the suggested amount. No one is ever turned away for financial reasons. Our fiscal year is July 1 – June 30 and all dues are 100% tax-deductible.
New: Emanu-El’s Virtual Membership Option: If you live outside the Bay Area, and want to join us virtually, our new Virtual Membership option is for you! Please contact Director of Membership Experience Ariana Estoque for details.
To learn more about membership or to visit the synagogue in person to learn more, please contact our Director of Member Experience, Ariana Estoque.
We hope you will choose to become part of the present and future of our congregation and complete the membership form now.
Questions? Please email Ariana Estoque or call (415) 750-7552.
For Current Congregation Emanu-El Members
To manage your membership, please log in and visit your account page. *Note: As of May 8, 2021, our login portal no longer supports Microsoft Internet Explorer 9 and 10. Please consider using another browser.
Seeking volunteers to be part of a “New Member Welcome Committee”
We are looking for current members to help us welcome new members to our community. We all know that personal outreach is the best way to build meaningful connection and long-term communal commitment. The ask is easy: we would pair you with a new member/family and ask that you call them, get to know them, share your experience, knowledge and love for the synagogue, and then check up on them monthly. It’s easy and very meaningful.
If you are interested in sharing your passion and connection to Emanu-El with others, please contact Ariana Estoque at 415-750-7550 or at [email protected].
