Mishkon Tephilo

About

DEVOTION BY THE OCEAN: We are a warm and welcoming congregation, both traditional and progressive.

Story

Founded in 1918, Temple Mishkon Tephilo is one of the oldest continuously operating synagogues on the Westside and has occupied its present historic building since 1948.

Our congregation is egalitarian and participatory, while remaining traditional. Mishkon events and services emphasize music, food, spirit, and accessibility. Our intimate, friendly community includes 150 member families. We value full participation, regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, disability, age, or marital status.

Mishkon appeals to those who respect tradition while remaining open to new ideas. Our unique character attracts people from all walks of life, who serve as one another's extended family. We are affiliated with the Masorti movement.

Mishkon provides extensive educational and social activities and programs for everyone, including Bar and Bat Mitzvah preparation for students of all ages.

Our rabbi, Gabriel Botnick, brings extensive experience as a musician, community organizer, and teacher. He is passionate about developing innovative and engaging ways to access the Jewish tradition, and making Judaism relevant and meaningful in our busy, modern lives. A native of Cleveland, Ohio, he has lived in Los Angeles for over a decade. Both Gabriel and his wife, Rose Prevezer, are long-term lovers of Venice and its vibrant community.

Our Shabbat services are lay-led and feature lively discussions about the Torah portion. Following services on Saturdays, we enjoy delicious lunches prepared by members of our congregation. Our Friday night services range from traditional to our once-a-month Musical Service, which also draw families with small children.

The Susan Sims-Bodenstein “Preschool by the Sea” serves children ages 3 to 5, and our toddler program is for ages 2 and 3. We provide a warm, nurturing environment influenced by Jewish traditions, where children can develop to their fullest potential. Our children internalize Jewish values and traditions through Shabbat observance and the celebration of all Jewish holidays. See http://www.mishkon.org/susan-sims-bodenstein-preschool

The Mishkon Tephilo Religious School has a unique hands-on curriculum that creates learning and a love for Judaism in each child. Family Education Programs give families an opportunity to learn together. School-Wide Programs involve the entire Religious School. Junior Congregation meets once a month on Saturday morning during Shabbat services from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. See http://www.mishkon.org/our-religious-school

Adult programs are varied and extensive and include special events, such as our concert featuring Hazzan Alberto Mizrahi and our participation in Shabbat Across America with noted speakers, such as Dr. Philip Belove, co-author of Rabbis in Love, and Guy Raz, NPR reporter and commentator.

We have lively holiday celebrations, including Purim festivals, Chanukah parties, and Tu’Bishvat seders and hikes. We also hold monthly book club gatherings and regular classes with our rabbi as well as with knowledgeable congregants, such as Jeffrey Fleck, who leads a weekly Rashi study group.

COME FOR A VISIT … STAY FOR LIFE. WE WELCOME YOU!!