Joe T.

Hadn’t been to Yom Kippur services in close to 20 years. Attempted a different reform synagogue this year, arrived five minutes before scheduled start time I was told. Only one other person was there. He ended up going to Chabad — too orthodox for me. I Google Maps-ed. Searched “reform synagogue”. There was one 23 minutes away. That’s how I found out about Congregation Emanu El.

Made the drive and walked in the front doors just before 7pm. Saw the sign outside to “have your tickets ready.” Flashed back to a memory from Yom Kippur or childhood at Congregation Bnai Chaim in Murrieta. A young family was turned away for not having tickets. Someone inside said “no! This is a Jewish synagogue, on Yom Kippur of all days. NOBODY is turned away.” That memory saw a Jew inside go after the young family in the nearby parking lot and bring them back in. I remember that Jew. Years before he served on Bnai Chaim’s Executive Board. He is my hero. He is my dad.

Back to 2023. There were three women behind a table at the front. I asked if I could enter. I was told I could. However, they were asking for 180$ for a ticket. I explained I did not have it, making eye contact only briefly with one of the women on the end, who smiled and tilted her head. It was the woman in the center, however, who spoke to me. “That’s ok, you can mail it in later.” I explained, I could not. The woman in the middle nodded. I gave thanks and exited.

I made the long walk back to my car. I removed my jacket, opened the passenger door and placed it inside. I started towards the drivers side. And then, a voice.

“Wait, please.”

It was one of the three women. The one on the end, with the head tilted in understanding. Care, not pity. She told me to come back, that she wanted me to join them. I explained I had no money to give. She said it was ok. Told me I could mail in a dollar, or nothing at all. She wanted me there. She told me I would be her “guest.” I asked if she was sure. She smiled.

“Yes. Please.”

I retrieved my jacket from the passenger seat and walked alongside her back inside. I was nervous. I asked if they had yarmulkes inside. She said yes, but they were open and welcoming, wear whatever you felt comfortable with. She led me back in. She handed me a small card, asked me to write my name. I did and attempted to hand the card to her. “That’s your ticket now.” I kept the ticket and walked towards the service. I took a talit and attempted to read the prayer, stumbling after over a decade and more on the final word. I placed the talit on. I felt whole.

The service was beautiful. I saw on the card the schedule for the next day, for all High Holiday services, and that this ticket was good for all of them. I returned the next day for a progressive discussion on Israel in the afternoon. Attended my first full Yizkor service in the late afternoon/early evening. Battled the tears in my eyes from my seat in the back. Stayed until break the fast began. Wore my own talit that second day, found it on a pile in my dads home. I said the prayer each time I put it on. I no longer stumbled over the final word.

Before leaving I thanked the amazing choir, the stirring and relatable Rabbi, with a love of classic rock, visiting from Florida who also led the Israel discussion, and the cantor who beautifully pulled it all together. I entered break the fast, I had fasted. I turned down the wine and the bread. I found the woman, the one with the smile, and the tilt. The one who truly saved me, in the realest sense of that word. I thanked her once more. She is my hero. Her name is Karen.

Thank you Karen, and Congregation Emanu El. Lisa from the Choir with the beautifully colored talit asked my name when I thanked them. She told me hers. Asked if I’d come back. I explained I lived about an hour away. She said that’s ok, there would be a place for me there. I believe her. And I will return. Gmar Chatimah Tovah. I would recommend this Congregation, wherever it may be, with all my heart.

Leslie S.

I've been a member for more than 40 years. I have gotten to know many interesting delightful people in the congregation. My Jewish knowledge has expanded and enriched my life and that of my husband and children. Although CEE is a member of the Union for Reform Judaism, the practice is respectful of tradition. The congregation embraces everyone on the religious continuum.

Phyllis S.

I have enjoyed the very warm and accepting congregation. The absolutely beautiful new building and incredible views lighten my heart every time I go there. I find Services to be very enjoyable.

andrew K.

Interesting modern Jewish faith facility. Visited looking for a friend I was told served the facility.

Dharmesh D. P.

We just had pre wedding ceremonies.. beautiful unique venue

Gulab V.

Beautiful venue for gatherings/ weddings/ reception

Lee K.

You get a warm welcome and everyone is accepted

Howard D. B.

Not sure yet needed information but have responded.