Harold Kushner wrote, “The word synagogue means ‘place of coming together,’ emphasizing its congregating function more than its dimension of sanctity.” By his definition, Kushner reminds us of the importance of coming together as a community, especially during the special times in our lives.

The members and staff at Congregation Beth Israel have taken the true meaning of synagogue to heart. CBI offers more than 45,000 feet of perhaps one of the newest facilities for your personal and professional events.  In addition to classrooms, the sanctuary and chapel, Smith Auditorium was rededicated in April 2003 in preparation for Congregation Beth Israel’s 127th anniversary. The auditorium is named to honor long-time Beth Israel members Milton and Helen Smith.

At more than 8,000 square feet, Smith Auditorium is perfect for a variety of events, large or small: Bar/Bat Mitzvah and holiday parties, anniversaries, simchas, birthdays, weddings, baby namings or memorial services:

• Baby namings — Families may also elect to have a kiddush service (wine and challah) after the ceremony or a small reception in the auditorium.

• Weddings — A simcha (happy event) at Congregation Beth Israel, wedding receptions can be held in Smith Auditorium.

• Bar/Bat Mitzvah parties — Celebrations of becoming a bar or bat mitzvah are a long-standing tradition in Judaism. Parties may be scheduled after sundown Saturday evenings in the Milton and Helen Smith Auditorium.

The Learning Center at CBI can be used for classes or meetings.  There are classrooms of all sizes, from very small to large.  CBI also has a myriad of audio visual components that can be used, as well as internet access. 

The chapel and sanctuary are available for rent

• Baby namings — Both the chapel and the sanctuary are available for baby namings. No fee is charged to Beth Israel members for this service, but a donation to the officiating clergy’discretionary fund or a temple fund is customary.

• Weddings — A simcha (happy event) at Congregation Beth Israel, weddings encourage everyone to experience the intimacy of the chapel or the grandeur of the sanctuary. Weddings may be held any day of the week, except Friday nights and Saturdays before sundown. They have both bride’and groom’s dressing rooms and will provide a basic chuppah and microphones.

• Funeral or memorial services — Both the chapel and sanctuary are available to Beth Israel members for memorial or funeral services. Chevra Kadisha Ritual services also are available.

Contact Jennifer Smith or Pamela Hanna at 512-454-6806 with your date and needs, so that we can help find the best solution for your rental needs.

Coming soon...rental fact sheet and costs