Frequently Asked Questions

“I don’t read Hebrew very well. Are the services all in Hebrew?”

We do pray in Hebrew, the Holy language G-d used in giving the Torah to Moses and the Jewish people. Our prayer books offer an excellent translation and interesting commentary, making it easy to follow along. We believe there is no substitute for prayer in G-d’s language, along with the stirring tunes that accompany it.

If you’re interested in learning to read Hebrew, AJ uses National Jewish Outreach’s excellent program, “A Crash Course in Reading Hebrew”, to help people learn in just several hours.

“What if I drive on Saturdays? Can I still come? What if I don’t keep Kosher?”

While Jewish law prohibits driving on Shabbos and dictates dietary law, we understand that everyone is at a different level in their practice of Judaism. Further, we understand that these practices may seem strange to someone who has had limited exposure to these laws or never studied their basis.

We believe in welcoming all Jews, regardless of their level of observance. Naturally we believe that all of us should strive to learn more and seek to strengthen our connection with G-d.

“What about my children? Is there programming there?”

Yes! Having a bunch of kids around adds life to an organization! We offer babysitting on Shabbos and special children’s events throughout the year. AJ has many children who are involved in local JCC sports programs, JCCY and NCSY events, and charitable events around town. We firmly believe that “children who play in shul grow to become adults who pray in Shul!’

More questions?

Good! We invite you to give us a chance to answer them. Find out if AJ is your kind of place. Please call the synagogue or come by…. we’d be delighted to have you join us!