About Us

We, at Congregation Ner Tamid (CNT), like to think of it as the Jewish jewel of the South Bay.  Our Conservative Synagogue  hosts a vibrant and inclusive religious school and one of the city's most respected early childhood centers, The David Preschool. We are proud of how each member brings his or her own story to our diverse community—such as those who have a multi-generational history at our congregation (L'dor V'dor), those who are new to the area and inter-faith families.  Congregation Ner Tamid is open to those of all ages and backgrounds who are seeking a Jewish community – a place to call home.

Mission Statement
Congregation Ner Tamid is a welcoming and inclusive Jewish community that enhances members’ lives through: 

• Education 
• Prayer, 
• Tikkun olam, 
• Social activities, 
• Cultural events, and  
• Lifecycle celebrations and support. 

Our Vision

• To instill ever deepening connection to Judaism and Israel 
• To foster friendships, community, and joy 
• To inspire acts of loving kindness and repair of the world 

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 and media center, wherein our members may check out materials at no charge.

Prayer & Worship
With two full-time active clergy, Rabbi Tzvi Graetz and Cantor Kenneth Jaffe, we offer a dynamic blend of worship opportunities that span from the small and intimate to when our sanctuary is completely full.  Our services are filled with music and song thanks to our Cantor, choirs and house band, Rhythm & Jews. 

Annual Shabbaton at Camp Ramah
One of the many programs that we are proud of is bringing our community together at Camp Ramah in Ojai, CA for our annual Shabbaton.  The Shabbaton is a wonderful weekend to reconnect with old friends and make new friends!  Throughout the weekend, there are family activities, family friendly Shabbat celebration, kids programming, adult activities and babysitting in the evenings.  

History of CNT
It all began in a private home with a handful of couples on the Friday evening of March 17, 1961. During the early years of our existence, we were becoming close rivals to Moses in our wanderings. Our services and celebrations were held in living rooms to such places as the Redondo Beach Woman’s Club, and many different hotels and churches.  In 1978 we opened our own doors at our permanent location, located at 5721 Crestridge Road in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA.

In 2001, we completed our Building Ner Tamid Program, expanding our educational wing and enhancing our beautiful synagogue home. Today we have evolved into a congregation of nearly 400 families offering a spiritual home for everyone from singles and young families to empty nesters and seniors. 

Congregation Ner Tamid has been serving the Jewish community of the South Bay as a Conservative synagogue from the time when there were scarcely families enough to be considered a community. Those who have shared any portion of our long journey have found it a rewarding experience.  Looking down the road ahead, we know that the best is yet to come!

Now, as always,  Congregation Ner Tamid is your home.