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Adult Center for Jewish Learning & Cultural Arts

Religious Information

At Congregation Ner Tamid, we take our name from the symbol of the Ner Tamid, the Eternal Light that shines in every Jewish sanctuary.

To us, the light that shines suggests the eternal gift of God's presence in our lives.

In a comfortable blending of Jewish tradition and modern society, we at Congregation Ner Tamid respond with sensitivity to the needs of contemporary Jewish life. Our philosophy of Conservative Judaism links our warm and vibrant synagogue of today with our rich and ancient heritage.

Founded in 1961, our congregational family continues to grow in numbers as we expand our programs to enhance the lives of the adults and children, couples and individuals, families and friends, of the South Bay Jewish community. For all within our community Congregation Ner Tamid strives to offer Jewish resources and activities.

Congregation Ner Tamid exists to serve as a Jewish resource for the families and communities of the South Bay. We represent and we teach the finest in Jewish tradition with the deep feeling that it is only from information and positive experiences that families today can make good choices about their religious beliefs and cultural identities. We advocate for Judaism and are guided by Jewish tradition as an institution. We embrace all who wish to affiliate with us and seek to make them comfortable among us. We understand the variety of backgrounds from which we emerge. We never judge personal religious decisions. We always challenge toward thought, personal growth and faith. In our celebration and study, we create community. In our work and services, we help society.

Our Sanctuary

Unique in its construction, our sanctuary of glass and stone provides a setting conducive to contemplation and prayer. Religious services are observed, and life's significant occasions are celebrated within its circular walls. As a social and cultural center, our facility hosts a variety of important meetings, lectures, classes and a vast assortment of gala events. Behind the sanctuary, classrooms, a youth lounge, pre-school and playground, a library and various offices complete our hilltop facility. Our beautiful synagogue home is a tribute to the combined efforts of the many dedicated families who have made, over the years, a seemingly impossible dream come true.

The Bimah Feature Walls in our sanctuary display four sculptures reflecting the light of God's presence in Jewish tradition. A seven branched Menorah, the symbol of Judaism and the State of Israel, the redemption of Jerusalem through the light of Torah, the Burning Bush and the tablets of the Ten Commandments were all crafted by Mr. Daniel Gluck, an artist who has created all of our synagogue's ritual furnishings.

The glass pieces atop the Bimah Feature Walls are designed to bring our eyes toward the Parochet, a curtain inside of the Holy Ark. The Parochet, which illustrates the Covenant between God and the Jewish people was crafted by the Israeli artist, Raphael Abecassis. It is entitled "Consecration". Mr. Abecassis also created the stained glass windows you see on each side of the Holy Ark (as well as throughout our web site). The windows on the right side represent "Creation" and "Dedication" and the ones on the left represent "Celebration" and "Redemption". Across the top the windows suggest "Exultation". The forms, shapes and colors of these pieces of ritual art have been selected to produce tableaus of beauty and excitement.

Head Covering

It is customary when inside the sanctuary for men to cover their heads. This is considered a sign of personal humility and awareness of God's presence in our world. In the synagogue foyer you will find a bin of caps, called in Hebrew, a "Kippah". We appreciate your kindness in honoring the custom of wearing a "kippah" in our sanctuary. Women are welcome to do so as well.

Congregational Courtesies

Please do not place the Prayer Books or Bible volumes on the floor.

There is No Smoking anywhere on the synagogue premises during the
Shabbat

Please refrain from writing while on the synagogue premises during the
Sabbath

All men need to wear a "kippah" in the sanctuary.

There is no photography during services

Please do not chew gum during services in the sanctuary

During services, children may not congregate in the foyer without adult
supervision

Please turn off, or silence, all pagers and cell phones

Schedule of Services

Prayers