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Information for Prospective Members

 
Dear Prospective Member,
 
I am delighted that you have expressed interest in Congregation Gates of Heaven. Let me help frame your search for a congregation by explaining what I aspire our congregation to be. A synagogue should be an extension of one’s home and its members should feel like family. 
 
What is unique about our congregation? We offer opportunities for individuals to engage Judaism on their own level and grow in that commitment. As a welcoming Reform Jewish synagogue, our philosophy is to encourage each person to find relevance and meaning as they create a personal Jewish connection to God, Torah, and the Jewish community. Our congregation was founded in 1854 and our current building is physically located in Schenectady; but our members reach to the far corners of the Capital Region with congregants coming from all parts of Schenectady, Albany, Saratoga, and Schoharie counties. Our synagogue also houses the largest Religious School in the Capital Region.
 
There are many gates to enter our congregation! We offer spiritual, educational, social action, and social opportunities for adults of all ages and stages. We are a place where Jewish values are lived and where Judaism can thrive!  We strive to learn what the members of our community are looking for in their synagogue and we aspire to meet those needs.
 
I invite you to come and visit us. Join us for a meal and a Shabbat experience, or come to the Saturday morning Torah Study. It would be my pleasure to greet you in person. Remember—the Gates of Heaven are open to all who wish to enter!
 
L’shalom,
Rabbi Matt Cutler
 
 
MEMBERSHIP QUESTIONS?
 
If you have any questions about membership and would like to connect with our Hospitality and Engagement Coordinator Elisa Harrington-Verb, please email her at elisa@cgoh.org. She can answer questions, connect you to other congregants, arrange for you to join us for a meal (as our guest, of course), and help you connect to Gates in a relaxed and comfortable way.
 
Wed, December 4 2024 3 Kislev 5785