New to Durham Region
Meet people nearby and begin building a Jewish connection close to home.
Newcomers Welcome
Your questions are welcome.So are you.
You do not need to know every prayer, share one kind of Jewish background or be ready to become a member before walking through our doors.
Wherever You Are Starting
A place for every stage of life.
People seek Jewish community for different reasons and at different moments. Your reason does not need to match anyone else’s.
Returning to Jewish Life
Reconnect at your own pace, without being tested on what you remember or how you practise.
Raising a Family
Explore Hebrew School, holidays, milestones and ways to bring Jewish learning into family life.
Interfaith or Multicultural
Find a community that welcomes the full reality of your family and treats questions with respect.
Building Your Own Community
Connect as a student, young professional or adult creating an independent Jewish life.
Seeking Connection in Retirement
Share experience, build friendships, learn and participate in meaningful community life.
Your First Visit
We’ll help you know what to expect.
Members, visitors and guests are welcome at Beth Zion. For security and hospitality purposes, first-time visitors must contact us before attending. That advance conversation also gives us the chance to answer questions and welcome you personally.
Shabbat ServicesTwice monthly on Saturday mornings
Ways to AttendIn person or through Zoom
What to WearRespectful, comfortable clothing
What You Need to KnowNo previous Hebrew or service experience required
Ways to Connect
Begin where it feels natural.
You do not have to do everything at once. Attend a service, join a learning opportunity, ask about a holiday gathering or simply start with a conversation.
Worship
Participatory Shabbat & Holiday Services
Prayer, song and lively study led by Rabbi Israel Man and members of the congregation.
Explore worshipLearning
Jewish Learning at Every Age
Hebrew School, family learning and periodic adult programs grounded in curiosity and conversation.
Explore education & learningBelonging
Membership That Sustains Community
Become part of a community that celebrates, supports and preserves Jewish life in Durham Region.
Explore membershipBelong as Yourself
Open, affirming and egalitarian.
Beth Zion welcomes people with different identities, family structures, backgrounds and levels of observance. We are proud to be part of a multifaith network of affirming places of worship in Durham Region.
Independent and unaffiliatedRooted in Jewish tradition and responsive to our community.
EgalitarianPeople of every gender may participate fully in worship and leadership.
2SLGBTQIA+ affirmingIdentity is welcomed, respected and included in community life.
Interfaith-family welcomingFamilies with different religious and cultural backgrounds are valued here.
Start With a Conversation
Not sure what to ask?
That is fine. Tell us a little about what brought you here, and we can help you identify the next step. You are not committing to membership simply by reaching out or visiting.
Good to Know
Newcomer FAQs
Do I need to be a member to attend?
No. Visitors are welcome. We ask first-time guests to contact us before attending so security and hospitality arrangements can be made.
Do I need to know Hebrew?
No. You are welcome regardless of your familiarity with Hebrew, prayers or synagogue customs.
Can I attend if I am not Jewish?
Yes. We welcome guests, interfaith families and people exploring Jewish life. Some ritual honours are reserved for Jewish participants.
Will I be expected to participate?
You may participate at the level that feels comfortable. Listen, sing, follow along, join the study conversation or simply observe.
Can I attend online?
Shabbat services may be joined through Zoom. Contact us in advance for current dates and access information.
Do I need to decide about membership before visiting?
No. Visit, ask questions and get to know the community before deciding whether membership is right for you.
What if finances make membership difficult?
Beth Zion believes finances should never prevent belonging. Confidential dues adjustments and installment arrangements are available.
Take the Next Step
Come as you are.
Whether you are looking for worship, learning, friendship, family connection or a Jewish home in Durham Region, we would be glad to hear from you.