You Are Welcome Here
Although Sinai Temple is a member of the Union for Reform Judaism and subscribes to the tenets of Reform Judaism, its membership includes Jews of all observances: Reform, Conservative, Traditional, Secular, Cultural, etc. We provide a variety of worship choices and are inclusive of interfaith families, Jews by choice, LGBTQ+ members, students, and individuals at every stage of Jewish life.
We pride ourselves on being a welcoming, multi-generational community rooted in Jewish learning, celebration, and connection. If you need accommodations, please let us know—we’re happy to help.
Membership at Sinai Temple is available to households consisting of at least one (1) Jewish adult. If you are not yet Jewish and are interested in learning more, please contact Rabbi Alan Cook at rabbialan@sinaitemplecu.org
Why Membership Matters
Membership at Sinai Temple enriches Jewish life in East-Central Illinois in a multitude of ways, with members enjoying the many benefits of being a part of our robust community:
- Belonging to a vibrant Jewish community
- Pastoral support & life-cycle officiation
- Education for children, teens, and adults
- Holiday celebrations, music-filled services and access to a variety of special programs
- Opportunities to volunteer and lead
- Ability to vote on temple-related business
How the Process Works
Our application process is easy and personal:
- Apply: Complete the online application (5–10 minutes).
- Connect: We will schedule a brief conversation for you with one of our Rabbis.
- Review: Applications go to the Board of Trustees for approval.
- Welcome: We will contact you personally to update you on the status of your application.
Timeline & What to Expect
- Scheduling: We aim to schedule your rabbinic conversation within 7 days of receiving your application.
- Board review: The Board meets once per month (typically the second Monday of each month, excluding July). If your application is received close to a meeting date, it may be reviewed the following month.
- Communication: You’ll receive an email confirming receipt of your application, a call from one of our Rabbis, and an update after the board reviews your application.
- Welcome: Upon approval, expect a personal call from our Membership Committee with an invitation to an upcoming service or event. We will also help you set up your online account so you can make your membership pledge and address other financial obligations (see below for more details).
Get Involved (at your pace)
Sinai Temple thrives on member energy and talent! On your application, please select at least three areas of interest so we can help you find the right fit within our community:
- Ritual/Worship
- Religious School/Youth
- Social Action/Tikkun Olam
- Building & Grounds
- Hospitality/Events
- Communications/Marketing
- Membership/Outreach
- Fundraising/Development
- Adult Education/Programs
- Music/Creative Arts
Membership Financial Commitments
Membership includes an annual financial pledge that sustains our programs, staff, and building. Members renew their membership annually by submitting a new pledge for each fiscal year (June-July). Renewal reminders are sent every year in August.
We utilize a voluntary pledge system. Under this process, each member sets his or her own level of support based on a target level of 2% of household income. This voluntary system is based on our deep conviction that the vast majority of our members will be guided by their sense of responsibility to support the Jewish community in a spirit of generosity and good will. It is a collaborative effort to see to it that the Temple is both financially and spiritually healthy for current – and future – generations.
However, we do not want finances to prohibit anyone from joining Sinai Temple. If your household is unable to contribute at the 2% level, we ask you to pledge an amount that is feasible and meaningful for you. We do not request or require proof of income.
Building Fund
In addition to your membership pledge, each member household is asked to contribute $150.00 annually towards the building fund. This is used to support the regular maintenance and repairs of our building and grounds.
Security Fund
In addition to your membership pledge and the building fund, each household is assessed a $120 annual fee to support the Security and Life Safety fund. This fund supports our premise alarm system, the fire alarm system, CCTV, security guards, and other safety-related considerations.
If you’d like to discuss pledge levels or payment options confidentially, check the box on the application and/or pledge form and our Financial Secretary will reach out privately. No one is turned away for financial reasons.
Start Your Application | Email our Office | Call our Office at 217.352.8140
Membership FAQs
