Congregation Beth Israel (CBI) provides Charlottesville, Albemarle and surrounding counties with a welcoming Jewish environment in which people can study, worship, socialize and take part in helping others. The congregation strives to support and encourage diverse religious styles of Jewish worship and expression, consistent with an open and tolerant philosophy of Judaism.

The key functions of the congregation include the building and enhancement of Jewish community in the Charlottesville area through communal prayer and personal spiritual growth; Jewish education of children, youth and adults; internal and external community dialogue on issues of religious and spiritual interest; promoting an attachment to and concern for Jews in Israel and elsewhere; providing outlets for Tikkun Olam (repairing the world); the performance of deeds of social justice locally and elsewhere; and support of Jewish values throughout the greater Charlottesville area.

As an institution, CBI models behavior that honors and preserves Jewish values. These include, but are not limited to, the study of Torah, observance of Shabbat and festivals, respect for dietary laws, support for the sick and needy and Tikkun Olam.

CBI is affiliated with the Union for Reform Judaism.

Congregation Beth Israel is a religious organization that vigorously promotes Jewish values in worship, spirituality, education and community through lifelong learning. We believe in open, respectful and sensitive communication that fosters the greatest possible level of participation of our members.

Our values support teamwork that encourages growth through individual initiative and creativity, knowledge, effective communication and education. All members of CBI - including paid professional and non-professional staff, the board of directors and congregants - are expected to be honest, trustworthy and respectful of one another, as befitting those who have chosen membership in a community defind by an ancient and enduring covenant. Our congregants and our employees are partners in a communal process enfolding within that covenant. We are dedicated to Judaism and the promotion of social justice.

We pride ourselves on our inclusiveness, warmth and encouragement of active congregant participation in all aspects of worship and governance. We promote outreach to the broader Charlottesville and surrounding communities through our social action programs. We view ourselves as an extended family of people who value Judaism and who support and care for each other.