Interfaith and Non-Traditional Families
The Emanuel Synagogue recognizes diversity in Jewish families. Interfaith and non-traditional families are all are treated with warmth and respect.
- Emanuel clergy and congregants greatly appreciate the role of the non-Jewish partner of an interfaith marriage in supporting his or her child’s Jewish education. The non-Jewish partner will have a significant role in the Bar/Bat Mitzvah ceremony and is afforded full access to the synagogue resources and clergy. School-age children may enter our religious school if they are being raised as Jews. To become a Bar/Bat Mitzvah at The Emanuel, the children must have a Jewish mother or have had a traditional conversion. Consult with Rabbi Small to answer any questions about the conversion.
- Adult children, grandchildren and descendants of interfaith marriages will feel welcome here.
- Jews by choice are embraced.
- Singles of all ages should be comfortable participating in our activities.
- Single-parent families are integrated into the fabric of ou
r community. - Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender members are welcome and actively involved in all aspects of congregational life.
- Children and adults with special needs are full participants in congregation activities.