Congregation Ner Tamid is an inclusive and accepting community of Reform Jews. We cherish our Jewish heritage as we continually reexamine Judaism through modern eyes. We are committed to inclusion and equality, a home for Jews of varied backgrounds, interfaith families, and Jews-by-choice.
Worship with Congregation Ner Tamid is reflective of our diversity. We pray from Mishkan T’filah, a Reform Siddur that combines Hebrew text with faithful translations, contemporary, gender-inclusive English, clear transliteration, commentaries, notes, and a beautifully designed layout. Our services tend to be a combination of traditional Hebrew tunes, modern English readings, and even some camp melodies. While always observing the order of service, actual content and selections may vary week to week.
Shabbat Services are held on Friday nights at 7:30 PM and are open to the entire community. Twice a month they are led by our Rabbi Joseph Prass, who brings a wealth of knowledge, a depth of compassion, a hint of intrigue, and an abundance of joy to each and every service. The remaining services are lay-led by a varied combination of experienced adults, willing volunteers, and engaging youth. We value these opportunities to come together as a community and follow each service with an Oneg Shabbat.
Many other holidays and life cycle events are shared and observed, also generally led by Rabbi Prass. B’nei Mitvzah are open to the congregation. High Holidays are open with paid registration and free to members. Sukkot, Simchat Torah with Consecration, Purim, Passover, and Shavuot with confirmation all offer opportunities to celebrate with our vibrant and growing community.
Worship is central to our identities as Jews. It helps us to reaffirm our belief system and reflect on the true gifts we’ve been given. It at once tightens the bonds between us and loosens the grip that the demands of modern life have on us. It is the deep refreshing breath that renews us and the eternal light that guides us.