FAQs

SO, WHAT DOES ANSHE EMET STAND FOR?

Anshe Emet Synagogue seeks to encourage involvement and create a special sense of belonging for all those who pass through our doors. We welcome interfaith families, people of all abilities, races, ethnicities, ages, sexual orientations and gender identities. Whether you are an individual or in a partnership, Anshe Emet is committed to meeting your religious, educational, social and cultural needs within the framework of the Conservative Movement. In keeping with the teachings of Judaism and the spirit of Klal Yisrael, Anshe Emet recognizes its responsibility to serve the Jewish community, the wider community and the State of Israel.

WHO COMES TO ANSHE EMET?

All kinds of people: women, men, young, old, secular, Israeli, more traditional Jews, less traditional Jews, babies, rabbis, seekers, and more.

WHAT ARE YOUR SERVICES LIKE?

Check out our Shabbat Services page for a detailed breakdown of our services.

WHAT OTHER EVENTS DO YOU HOLD?

We hold all kinds of events! Check out our upcoming events on our home page.

On holidays, we often hold special events – megillah readings, our annual Purim Carnival, sukkah gatherings, our annual Light & Latkes Competition, Kaplan music concerts, Visionaries Gala and so much more!

WHO GETS TO HAVE AN ALIYAH?

Volunteers like you.

IS ANSHE EMET CONSERVATIVE?

Yes, though, while we are a Conservative synagogue, our community is made of members who grew up in different movements. We strive to be a pluralistic community where Jews of all stripes and backgrounds can feel comfortable. We hold the standards for kashrut and liturgy high to accommodate strictly observant members of the community, and we also incorporate many of the progressive practices of contemporary Jewish communities.

ARE YOU LGBT-FRIENDLY?

Yes. The LGBT community is a welcome and involved part of Anshe Emet.

ARE YOU EGALITARIAN?

Yes. Men and women share responsibilities in leading services, leyning Torah and so forth.

ARE INTERFAITH COUPLES WELCOME?

Yes. We have many interfaith families at Anshe Emet, and they are very much part of our family. Learn about our promise to interfaith families here.

DO YOU KEEP KOSHER?

Food served at Anshe Emet events is prepared in our kosher kitchens by staff or certified caterers.

HOW DOES ANSHE EMET SUPPORT ITSELF?

Members of the community make donations and pay dues, which enable us to pay our bills, pay our clergy and staff, purchase food, and so on. You can learn more about membership here.

All donations are welcome. Anshe Emet is a 501(c)3 and donations are tax deductible.

If you’d like to make a donation, you can do so online by clicking here or you can mail checks made out to:

Anshe Emet Synagogue
3751 N. Broadway Ave.
Chicago, IL. 60613

I NEED SOME ASSISTANCE OR COUNSELING, IS THERE SOMEONE I CAN TALK TO?

Our rabbis are available to help serve the needs of community members who are sick, grieving, interested in spiritual/pastoral/religious counseling, in need of a special minyan, or simply going through a tough time. Please contact us so we can help. For Senior Rabbi Michael Siegel, call Victoria May at 773-868-5120. For Rabbis Russo & Chankin-Gould, call Tamar Brooks at 773-868-5125.

WHAT PRAYERBOOK DO YOU USE?

We use Siddur Sim Shalom.

I DON’T KNOW ANYONE AT ANSHE EMET — HOW CAN I MEET PEOPLE?

Anshe Emet is a very warm and diverse community – we’d love to meet you! We can help ease your way in – let us know ahead of time that you’re coming to a service or one of our events, or if you’d like to join someone for a Shabbat dinner. Contact Hannah Jarvis, of Membership Director, who will be happy to find the perfect service, program or group for you to connect.

Also, be sure to join our mailing list and you will receive announcements about upcoming events and programs.

HOW CAN I JOIN THE MAILING LIST?

Easy, there’s a sign-up towards the bottom of our home page. You will receive our weekly Shabbat Today email, which will keep you informed on upcoming events, guest speakers, services and more. You can also remove yourself from the list anytime you like.

I HAVE A QUESTION THAT WASN’T ANSWERED HERE. WHO CAN I ASK?

Give us a call at 773-281-1423 and someone will be there to help you directly!