About Us

Our congregation began in 1959 when two dozen families came together to establish a new Reform congregation in the Rochester, NY area.  Their goal to create a synagogue that lived up to Reform Jewish values and that provided a safe and inclusive environment for Jewish spiritual, educational and social fulfillment remains strong and vibrant today.  On June 12, 1960, Temple Sinai was granted its charter from the Union of American Hebrew Congregations (now the Union of Reform Judaism).

In these fifty plus years we have grown to a current membership of approximately 530 households. 

Although we have grown, the goals of our founders live on as our goals today.  We continue to think of ourselves as a small congregation because we do all we can to maintain a culture of warmth and connectedness with and among our congregants.  We nurture and cherish our culture of inclusiveness, our sense of community and our sense of respect for all.

Inclusion

We are Jewish newcomers and old timers, children and adults, individuals with abilities and disabilities, individuals, couples and families, gay and straight, Jews by birth and by choice, non-Jewish partners and spouses. We aspire to integrate all people who might feel like they are on the margins of the community, in all aspects of congregation life.

Learning

Our educational programs are first-class, with an early learning center onsite, one of the finest fully inclusive religious schools in our city, and a robust adult education program. Our goal is to provide for a lifetime of Jewish learning. We also host a sizable library, wherein our members may check out materials at no charge.

Prayer & Worship

With three active clergy members, we offer a dynamic blend of worship opportunities that span from the small and intimate to grand classical services. Our main sanctuary, provides a truly awe-inspiring space in which to practice Jewish ritual life.

Now, as always, Temple Sinai is your home.