Hebrew Congregation of Somers

About

Hebrew Congregation of Somers is a friendly and welcoming Reconstructionist synagogue that draws members from northern Westchester and southern Putnam counties.

Story

Reconstructionist Judaism is the doctrine that Judaism isn't a religion in the traditional sense but is a civilization with a common language, history, and ethnic identity in addition to the religious aspect. Also, we believe that religion evolves with the times - for example, we invented egalitarian Judaism.

More details: Reconstructionism integrates a deep respect for traditional Judaism but includes progressive values and ideas. We turn to Jewish law for guidance, but also recognize the right of individuals and communities to make their own choices with regard to religious practice and ritual observance. We believe that the past has a vote but not a veto. We retain rituals and practices that are warmly traditional, yet at the same time modern and egalitarian. We respect core values such as democratic process, pluralism, and accessibility. Our community is participatory and inclusive, committed to exploring Jewish life with dedication, warmth, and enthusiasm.

Services at HCS are informal with a mixture of English and Hebrew. Discussion and questions are always welcomed from adults and children. Kippot and tallitot are worn by most men and women. Many of us dress informally and wear jeans to services; others, more formal clothes. We keep a kosher kitchen.

We welcome all -- regardless of marital status, age, race, family composition, sexual orientation, and/or disabilities. No experience is required to join. We keep our dues as low as possible.

Children of interfaith couples are considered Jews by Reconstructionists if they have a Jewish mother or a Jewish father. This is similar to the Reform position.

We offer Hebrew School for children as well as weekly adult education, led by our Rabbi Halina Rubinstein

Mission

We welcome interfaith families from Westchester and Putnam and provide progressive, egalitarian Hebrew and religious school education for children and adults. We welcome LGBT families.Our members have varied backgrounds from the
Reconstructionist, Reform, Conservative, Orthodox, Cultural and non-affiliated branches of Judaism.