Shaarei Shamayim

A Traditional Shule

Welcome to Congregation Shaarei Shamayim. We are an in-town Traditional shule, whose spiritual focus is developing a relationship with G-d through prayer, meditation, and the study of Torah, and reaching out to our fellow human beings with chesed--love and compassion. Our shule is a place of comfort, companionship, and healing. We are a community of families who care about each other, for we believe in the holiness of the human spirit--that every human being is an image of Gd.

We believe that both the written and the oral Torah were given to the Jewish people by Gd at Sinai, and, therefore, the Torah is our primary guide in all matters. We believe the mitzvot(commandments) of the Torah set our religious parameters, but certainly allow for creativity and open-mindedness. Jewish tradition views men and women as equal and complementary, but not interchangeable. Hence we maintain that while Jewish law prescribes different obligations for men and women, it also allows considerable latitude for women's participation in synagogue life.

In an effort to break down the artificial barriers and labels that separates our people, the principle of Ahavat Yisrael, love of our fellow Jew, takes center stage, and all are welcome. That is why we offer both separate (machitza) and mixed seating for men and women.

Organizational Model

• Torah is the guide to all aspects of synagogue life. Rabbi, lay leaders, and members work together to bring Torah values to our community.
• Torah guides the conditions for governance there is congruity of actions and words.
• Mutual respect between members, lay leaders, and clergy is essential for success.
• A traditional and inclusive model of governance ensures that all members work together to achieve our common goals.

Congregation Shaarei Shamayim is an intimate, involved congregation. Everyone has a voice in the Shaarei Shamayim family. We encourage all members to play a role in carrying out the mission of our shule, which is: To develop a relationship with Gd through prayer, meditation, and the study of Torah and reaching out to our fellow human being with chesed, love, and compassion.

"The world stands on three things: Torah, Avodah, and G'milut Chassadim." (Pirke Avot 1:2)