All Are Welcome at Bet Alef

Bet Alef is an inclusive, egalitarian, progressive Jewish community. What does this mean? It means that we welcome anyone who is curious or engaging in those values as part of their own spiritual journey. It means that we walk alongside each other – from all walks of life – as we discover our spirituality together, lift up one another, and carry each other when we need it. This means that when we say “All are welcome here…” it is a deeply held conviction and value. In case you’re still wondering..

How is Bet Alef welcoming of interfaith families and those who are not Jews?

We are a community inclusive of all, sharing universal spiritual teachings and practices rooted in the millenia-old tradition of Judaism. Wherever you find yourself on your spiritual journey, you will find that our approach to spirituality and language are inclusive and embracing of interfaith relationships, partnerships, and participation. Bring your whole self to our worship services, regardless of your spiritual background, and we promise to meet you exactly where you are.

How is Bet Alef welcoming of all genders, identities and LGBTQ+ people?

We live and practice a spirituality affirming all beings as embodiments of the Divine Presence. As such, we welcome and

embrace all people just as they are. No matter your sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or your questioning thereof, we are proud to be a home for all LGBTQ+ individuals and families.

I was raised Orthodox, am I welcome?

Of course. We do want to let you know in advance that our synagogue is a shared space, meaning we do not have a kosher kitchen, but also that our observation of kashrut is different from most Orthodox communities. At our Oneg and shared meals, we try to always provide ingredients and vegetarian options for those who are trying to observe.

I don't know anything about meditation, am I welcome?

Sure. We’d love to help you explore that side of your spirituality.

How is Bet Alef welcoming of People of Color?

At Bet Alef, we are actively engaged in the work of becoming an anti-racist community and affirm that Black lives matter. We view this work and assertion as inseparable from our spiritual life and our spiritual evolution, and live this as an unfolding process, not as a label.

How is Bet Alef welcoming of Immigrants?

At Bet Alef, we’re mindful that everyone in our community who is not Native Coast Salish or a descendant of African slaves is an immigrant or a descendant of immigrants or refugees. Holding this consciousness, we seek to cultivate right relationship with Native Nations, people and descendants of African slaves.

At the same time, we are engaged in seeking justice and enacting reforms in immigration policy, demanding humane treatment of immigrants in all US detention centers, and work in any way we can to help our neighbors from all nations find the thriving life and blessings that we all seek here in America.

Our congregation’s rabbi is himself an immigrant from Europe, with parents and grandparents from North Africa, Turkey and Poland. As such, Rabbi Olivier deeply understands and values the voices and perspectives of people from other nations and cultures.

How is Bet Alef welcoming of people of all ages and generations?

Our ages are not as nearly as important to us as our presence, our participation, and our authentic engagement with one another. We value and encourage intergenerational experiences. As a community, we engage in lifelong learning and try to provide entry points, learning opportunities and connections for everyone from our youngest pre schoolers through high school, college, young family life, and beyond. We believe our collective wisdom and life experience – in any generation – only enriches our community.