Scotch Plains Synagogue Hosts Free Rosh Hashanah Family Service Sept. 11

Congregation Beth Israel in Scotch Plains will hold a free, one-hour family service on Friday evening, September 11, 2026, to mark Erev Rosh Hashanah—the start of the Jewish New Year and Shabbat. The service runs from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at 18 Shalom Way, at the corner of Martine Avenue. The program includes songs, stories, and prayers, creating a welcoming observance for families and community members.

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Child-Friendly and Community-Open

The service is explicitly child-friendly and open to the community. No synagogue membership or tickets are required, removing barriers to participation and signaling the congregation's approach to community welcome and inclusion. Registration is requested at cbinj.org/event/erevrh5787, allowing the synagogue to plan appropriately for attendance.

This approach reflects Congregation Beth Israel's commitment to accessibility and community engagement around religious observance. Jewish New Year celebrations offer opportunities for interfaith community participation and neighborhood cultural exchange.

Religious Leadership and Officiation

Rabbi Howard Tilman and Cantor Jacob Greenberg will officiate the service, providing spiritual leadership and musical tradition central to Jewish worship. The presence of both rabbi and cantor emphasizes full liturgical and musical program for the observance.

Congregation Beth Israel Background

Congregation Beth Israel is an egalitarian Conservative synagogue serving congregants from Scotch Plains, Fanwood, Westfield, and surrounding towns. The congregation draws membership from a broad geographic area, reflecting its role as regional Jewish community gathering space.

The synagogue has been recognized as an ABLE Awarded Congregation by the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest for its commitment to inclusion and accommodation. This recognition reflects documented organizational commitment to accessibility and welcoming all community members.

Inclusion and Accommodation

Those who need accommodations can contact the synagogue office to make a request. This explicit invitation reflects the congregation's proactive approach to accessibility and commitment to removing barriers to participation.

Erev Rosh Hashanah is one of the Jewish calendar's most significant observances, marking the transition to the new year and inviting spiritual reflection and community gathering.

Community Programs and Activities

Beyond its worship services, Congregation Beth Israel offers adult education courses, social action opportunities, and active groups including a Sisterhood, Men's Club, and youth group. This programming reflects the synagogue's role as community institution providing connection, learning, and social engagement alongside worship.

Contact and Registration

For questions or to register for the September 11 service, congregation members and community attendees can reach the synagogue office at (908) 889-1830 or office@cbisp.org. Registration is requested to help the congregation plan appropriately for attendance and seating.

The location at 18 Shalom Way, corner of Martine Avenue, is accessible and provides central location for Scotch Plains residents and neighbors from surrounding towns.

Community Welcome

The free, community-open Erev Rosh Hashanah service reflects Congregation Beth Israel's approach to religious observance as neighborhood gathering and cultural participation opportunity. For Scotch Plains families and neighbors seeking community, spiritual connection, and cultural participation in Jewish New Year observance, the September 11 service provides accessible entry point.

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FAQ

Q: When is the Erev Rosh Hashanah service?
A: Friday, September 11, 2026, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Congregation Beth Israel in Scotch Plains.

Q: What is Erev Rosh Hashanah?
A: Erev Rosh Hashanah marks the start of the Jewish New Year and Shabbat, a significant observance in the Jewish calendar.

Q: Is the service free?
A: Yes. The service is free and open to the community.

Q: Do I need to be a member to attend?
A: No. The service is open to the community and does not require synagogue membership.

Q: Is the service child-friendly?
A: Yes. The service is designed to be family and child-friendly.

Q: What is included in the service?
A: The program includes songs, stories, and prayers.

Q: Where is Congregation Beth Israel located?
A: 18 Shalom Way, at the corner of Martine Avenue, Scotch Plains.

Q: Do I need to register?
A: Registration is requested to help the congregation plan for attendance. Register at cbinj.org/event/erevrh5787.

Q: Does the congregation offer accommodations?
A: Yes. Those who need accommodations should contact the synagogue office at (908) 889-1830 or office@cbisp.org.

Q: What else does Congregation Beth Israel offer?
A: The congregation offers adult education, social action programs, and active groups including Sisterhood, Men's Club, and youth group.