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In our synagogue, men and women are equal in all respects. Decency and trust are as important as any goal. We all share in leadership and responsibility. We are mindful of the community and world around us. We reach out our hearts and invite you to join us.
Social Action
We reach out to help "heal the world" through community support activities including a High Holiday food drive to replenish local food pantries, Chanukah packages for Soviet Jews, and informational programs on a variety of topics including racism and gun control.
Out in Our Faith I and II
In the past two years, Temple Beth El has hosted a series of lectures and workshops designed to foster full inclusion for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender individuals.
 Read an informative article on inclusion from a OIOF panelist, Rev. Michael Love
On June 2, 2006, Rabbi Rick Litvak and Rabbi Paula Marcus accepted proclamations on behalf of Temple Beth El from the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors, the City of Santa Cruz, and the Santa Cruz Pride Committee for our continued work to promote full inclusion of GLBTQI individuals in all aspects of the community and in area houses of worship, especially through the Out in Our Faith Program.
Communities Organized for Relational Power in Action (COPA)
Temple Beth El is an active participant in this interfaith effort to improve our communities. Our primary action is an initiative for affordable housing in Santa Cruz County. Read more
The Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism (RAC)
The RAC educates and mobilizes the American Jewish community on legislative and social concerns as an advocate in Congress on issues ranging from Israel and international religious freedom to economic justice and civil rights, to international peace and religious liberty. You can sign up for RAC e-updates and get email notification tailored to your particular RAC interests.
Israel
With respect to Israel, we promote ongoing discussion, study, and action. We respect differing viewpoints as we support the State of Israel. Through our affiliation with the Reform Movement, we further religious pluralism in Israel.
Ways To Support Israel At This Criticial Time,
The support of the Jews of America is very important for Israel at this time. In addition to deaths and injuries, over a million Israelis have been displaced by Hezbollah rocket and missile attacks. We encourage you to donate to one or more of the Israel tzedakkah projects listed bellow. In addition, contacting elected officials is also very important. Contact Congressional Representatives Sam Farr (429-1976) and Anna Eshoo (335-2020). Thank them for sponsoring HR921 expressing America's strong support for Israel. Encourage them to remain strong in their support for Israel. Speak up on behalf of Israel with your friends and neighbors. Pray for Israel's security and for peace.
A special fund has been designated through the URJ. You can donate on line at : www.urj.org
Magen David Adom (the Israeli version of the Red Cross) is looking for support. They can be found at: www.afmda.org
The New Israel Fund can be found at: www.newisraelfund.org/
Brit Tzedek V'Shalom at www.btvshalom.org
Mazon Project
Temple Beth El volunteers provide Sunday dinner every week for the homeless as the River Street Shelter. Members have supported this ongoing community outreach program since 1988.
Mitzvah Day
One day is set aside every year for members of the congregation to join together in performing mitzvot in our community. Crews work on projects such as maintenance of the temple facilities, beach cleanup, or sorting food for the homeless.
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