ABOUT US
B'ruchim HaBaim – Welcome to Beth El Hebrew Congregation!
Beth El is a warm, inclusive Reform Jewish community in Alexandria, Virginia, where Jewish values come to life every day. Whether you're seeking spiritual growth, Jewish education for your children, social justice engagement, or simply community connection, we believe you'll find a home here.
Since 1859, we've been serving the Alexandria area as one of Northern Virginia's oldest Jewish congregations. Our doors are open to all who seek connection, meaning, and healing through Jewish life.
WHAT MAKES BETH EL SPECIAL
We are authentic. Our worship and community life reflect Jewish values in modern times, bringing ancient wisdom into contemporary life.
We care for each other. At Beth El, you're family. We embrace diversity and support one another through life's joys and challenges.
We welcome everyone. No matter where you are in your Jewish journey, there's a place for you at Beth El. Our diverse congregation warmly embraces individuals and households of all backgrounds. You'll feel at home whether you grew up in a Jewish tradition, chose Judaism as your spiritual journey, or are part of a Jewish partnership.
We grow together. We honor ancestral traditions while adapting them for today's needs.
OUR Vision & Values
VISION: We are Beth El, a sacred Jewish community for all who seek connection, meaning, and healing.
VALUES:
- CHESED | LOVINGKINDNESS: We are bound by covenant and our shared humanity, embracing lovingkindness as our central value.
- MISHPACHA | FAMILY: We celebrate that our congregational family reflects the diversity of the human experience.
- MASORET | TRADITION: We inherit the traditions of our ancestors, reforming them to meet our lives today.
- CHOCHMAH | WISDOM: We trust in Jewish wisdom and honor all paths that lead to peace.
- YISRAEL | ISRAEL: We devote ourselves to wrestling with our dreams for Israel.
- TZEDEK | JUSTICE: We accept responsibility to repair our unjust world.
Together, we are Beth El.
our rich History
Beth El's story began in the 1850s when German Jewish immigrants sought freedom and opportunity in Alexandria's thriving port city. In 1859, our founders established a Reform congregation with vision for generations to come. Our first home on Washington Street (1871-1955) pioneered English-language services, making Judaism accessible to American-born Jews. In 1956, we moved to our current Seminary Road location to accommodate our growing community. For nearly two centuries, no matter the location, Beth El has actively served our community and has evolved to meet the ongoing needs of our congregation. Read More
LIFE AT BETH EL TODAY
Beth El offers meaningful opportunities for every stage of life:
- Vibrant worship blending traditional prayers with contemporary music
- Educational programs from early childhood through adult learning
- Youth engagement and leadership development
- Social action initiatives putting values into practice
- Lifecycle celebrations marking precious moments
- Pastoral and congregational care for those in need
- Community connections through groups and events
You belong Here
Jewish community isn't one-size-fits-all at Beth El. Some grew up Jewish, others chose Judaism. Some attend weekly, others join for holidays. We celebrate interfaith families and partners of all backgrounds who want to share in Jewish life. What unites us is our commitment to Jewish values and caring for one another. We are one Beth El.
Connect with us
Beth El Hebrew Congregation
3830 Seminary Road
Alexandria, VA 22304
Phone: 703-370-9400
We'd love to hear from you. Whether you're new to the area, new to Judaism, or seeking a spiritual home, we're here to welcome you.