Our Mission
Temple Emanuel strives to be a place of Keruv, of closeness to God and Jewish culture.
Temple Emanuel’s mission is to bring its congregants closer to:
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Tikkun Olam: The commitment to repair God’s world through the pursuit of justice;
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Tikkun Nefesh: Personal and spiritual growth as a Jew and as a human being;
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Talmud Torah: Life-long study of Torah and of Jewish history and tradition;
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Am Yisrael: The Jewish people, in Greensboro, the United States, Israel, and worldwide;
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Eretz Yisrael: The land, people, and state of Israel;
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Mishpacha: A sense of extended family through a warm and supportive atmosphere;
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Reform Judaism: Its principles and values.
Diversity and Inclusivity Statement
Temple Emanuel is committed to inclusivity: Hachnasat Orchim (Hospitality) means welcoming people of different cultural backgrounds, races, nationalities, sexual orientations, genders, gender identities, gender expressions, physical and mental abilities, and ages.
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We recognize Jewish identity from both matrilineal and patrilineal descent.
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Our Rabbis are open to officiating at Jewish ceremonies for interfaith marriages.
Appreciating the critical role played by non-Jewish parents in the upbringing of
Jewish children, we encourage full participation in congregational and religious life
by interfaith families.
What We Do
We are a vibrant and caring Reform Jewish congregation with approximately 570 families and a member of the Union for Reform Judaism. As a diverse congregation, we explore Jewish traditions, culture, rituals, and history in a warm environment that is inclusive, relevant, and inspirational. Preschooler or retiree, teen or mother, survivor, or corporate climber, there are meaningful services, ceremonies, and engaging events for everyone.
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Led by our dynamic rabbis, Andy Koren and Libby Fisher, worship services are joyous, musical, informative, and very welcoming. You will be delighted by the beauty of our sanctuary as we celebrate the many life cycle events in our community. Join us for our exceptional High Holiday services, Shabbat/Havdalah B'yachads, B’nai Mitzvah celebrations, our Martin Luther King, Pride, or Juneteenth Shabbat Services, and scores of other interesting speakers and special programs. Our Rabbis lead with a 24-hour dedication and commitment that is unparalleled.
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Beginning with the Early Childhood Engagement Center (ECEC) and continuing through Confirmation and Adult Learning, Temple Emanuel provides educational opportunities for everyone. Our religious and pre-school programs are thriving and on any given Saturday morning you will find a lively Chevra Torah study session. Of particular note this year, Temple Emanuel is proud to offer the Florence Melton Adult Mini-School, in addition to our other instructive course offerings.
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None of this happens without an enthusiastic community backed by a dedicated board and office staff. It is easy to become involved here. Brotherhood and Sisterhood are always seeking new members and programming ideas, and welcome your participation. We welcome you to explore our Brotherhood and Sisterhood, Friendship Circle for Senior Adults, Chesed Committee/Cooking Club, and the numerous community service projects of the Social Action Committee. Whether you are interested in music, recycling, rituals, terumah, education, or temple finance, we look forward to your membership and involvement. We strongly encourage you to come and spend some time with us.