Sha'ar Zahav - San Francisco, California

Introduction to Sha'ar Zahav

Sha'ar Zahav is a renowned Reform synagogue located at 290 Dolores St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States. It has been a pillar of the Jewish community for many years, providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all those seeking spiritual growth and connection.

Specialties and Features

This Reform synagogue specializes in offering a variety of religious services, educational programs, and social events tailored to cater to the diverse needs of its members. One of the standout features of Sha'ar Zahav is its commitment to accessibility, with wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking facilities available on the premises.

Website and Contact Information

For more information, please visit their official website at shaarzahav.org. You can also reach them directly by phone at 4158616932.

Testimonials and Reviews

Sha'ar Zahav has received an impressive array of positive reviews from its patrons. On Google My Business, the synagogue boasts a solid 4.5/5 average rating based on 22 reviews. Many visitors have praised the warm and welcoming atmosphere, the beautiful music, and the homemade challah served during Friday night services.

Opinions and Additional Information

While some reviewers mentioned that the congregation may appear a bit clique-ish, others appreciated the synagogue's inclusive nature, particularly for members of the LGBTQ+ community. The presence of a part-time rabbi and a part-time jazzy cantor at the piano adds to the unique charm of the temple. However, it is worth noting that some individuals have expressed a desire for a greater focus on spirituality alongside the emphasis on ritual knowledge.

Recommendation

If you are looking for a Reform synagogue that offers a welcoming and inclusive environment, Sha'ar Zahav is definitely worth considering. Whether you are seeking to deepen your spiritual connection, participate in educational programs, or simply enjoy the warm camaraderie of the congregation, this synagogue has much to offer.

We highly recommend visiting their official website at shaarzahav.org to learn more about their services, events, and membership opportunities. You can also contact them directly by phone at 4158616932 to schedule a visit or request additional information.

👍 Reviews of Sha'ar Zahav

Ezra K.

5/5

I attended Erev Shabbat services online and was moved by the warmth of the community and the beauty of the music. I would love to go there in person if I was in the Bay Area!

gemma S.

3/5

Refirm, lgbtqqian friendly, small, seemingly haimish temple, a bit clique-ish, lead by lay leaders, a pt rabbi and a pt jazzy cantor at the piano. yet... there seem to be so many luftmensch and members who know much about ritual although too little about spirituality. If you're looking for wine and brie like temple emmanuel, you'll be disappointed. The challah is homemade most Friday nights and well worth a big bite.

Ivan W.

4/5

Free cocktails on pride shabbat. Free food at the oneg made with love by members. Hamish. Great rabbi and cantor. Intimate and somewhat small regular services Friday night and Saturday morning.

Charles T.

1/5

THEY STOLE MY MONEY! I bought tickets for the Mishkan Concert that was to be delivered via Zoom. When I purchased the tickets , I noticed that I was not provided with any information on how to view the concert. When I emailed the person who advertised the tickets, she advised me to buy the tickets again and beg for a refund.

Paul B.

5/5

Originally founded for and by the LBQT community, its raison d'etre in modern times is to be the most welcoming place for all Jews and non-Jews. Founded 40 years ago to be accepting of the diversity of "otherness" and rejection felt by gays and lesbians back then, what is really in the forefront now is the diversity of Jewishness from the very orthodox to the very questioning types. No matter how isolated or normal I feel about myself when I am there for Shabbat services, the message is always clear: "You are welcome here. You are home".

Joe G.

5/5

A gay-friendly synagogue, welcoming all and relaxed enough that the rabbi takes questions during the service. Gender-neutral prayer books, warm atmosphere.

Aarti R.

5/5

Concert hall with a lovely piano in a synagogue in the mission. The hall had beautiful acoustics and the stained glass was beautiful

Stephen S.

5/5

Very warm and inviting Temple for straight, gay , couples and individuals. Our grandchildren love joining us.