Founded in 1896, Congregation B'nai Israel is the oldest synagogue in the Danbury area. We are a Conservative congregation, affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism.

Free Hebrew School for New Members

The flowers outside Congregation B'Nai Israel.

The mission of Congregation B’nai Israel will be to provide a synagogue experience, rooted in modern Conservative Judaism, that is warm, personal, supportive and relevant to the challenges people face in their lives today. It will retain the feeling, the spirit, the familiar resonances of traditional synagogue worship while, at the same time, creating a link with contemporary life and with the needs of each individual congregant.

The members of Congregation B'nai Israel form a warm and caring community. We are modern in our outlook and value tradition. There is active participation by both men and women, and we welcome the energy of children in our services. The atmosphere of the congregation is perhaps best summarized in the words of a recent member:

"I just walked into the building and everyone was so unpretentious, and genuinely friendly. I had not been to a synagogue in years, but somehow I felt at home."

Please join us for services each Shabbat morning at 9:30 a.m. Our services include traditional prayers, spirited singing, discussions and storytelling. Warm, learning environments are offered on Shabbat for toddlers through adult.

The Congregation B'nai Israel religious school provides individual attention and a devoted staff who instill in our children a love for Judaism. We offer innovative teen programs, as well a sensitive, personal preparation for Bar and Bat Mitzvah with Rabbi Altenburger.

Adults also have the opportunity to further their Jewish growth and personal search through our Adult Education program. Hebrew, Jewish Holidays, Jewish History and much more will be available at no cost during the year.

The congregation sponsors an active Sisterhood and Men's Club, and offers a continuing adult education program.

We welcome all individuals and families who want to pray, study and socialize. We support one another in life's happy and sad moments. Rabbi Nelly Altenburger provides warm and dynamic leadership, and is involved in all aspects of the community. With her, we strengthen our connection to Israel, and also explore what Judaism teaches about family relationships, sexual ethics, crime, the environment, and other modern issues.

We invite you to join our extended family. For further information, please call the Synagogue office at (203) 792-6161.