Welcome to Congregation B’nai B’rith!
We are the oldest and largest synagogue in Santa Barbara, a congregation rich with memories and tradition, constantly seeking new ways of engaging every one of our members in the ancient and marvelous Jewish way of life. We cherish and honor our elders, with their deep wisdom and varied life experiences, and we are passionately devoted to our children, working unceasingly to provide them with a satisfying and enjoyable Jewish foundation that will last them for their entire lives.
We strive always to welcome newcomers and also to remain a familiar and comfortable Jewish home for those who chose long ago to make this their Jewish community. Whoever you are, and wherever you come from, we hope that you will visit us, learn with us, sing with us, break bread with us, roll up your sleeves and work with us to help make this a better world.
Our Mission
Congregation B’nai B’rith is a diverse, inclusive community of individuals and families building together a warm and vibrant house of living Judaism.
Our Vision
We envision CBB as a place where Santa Barbara Jewish people and our families…feel welcome and at home, where we are inspired to bring our gifts of energy and creativity, and where we connect to the tradition and community of our Jewish ancestors.
We aspire to be a congregation of knowledgeable and committed Jews, each individual expressing in their own unique way the seven circles of Study, Prayer, Acts of Compassion, Shabbat, the Festival Year, the Cycle of Life, and the Jewish People.
We are constantly growing as a Kehilla K’dosha, a sacred community of people whose lives are enriched with meaning, purpose, connectedness and relationship with God.
Our Beliefs
- In this age of proliferating Jewish institutions, the synagogue remains unique and indispensable.
- Jewish practice and participation in Temple life can be a source of profound meaning throughout our lives.
- A healthy synagogue community engages members at every stage of our lives – and our individual level of commitment and participation may vary at different times in our lives.
- A Jewish community flourishes when members gather together on a regular basis for worship and learning, for community service and for fun and social connection.
- In order to thrive, our congregation must be adaptive, take risks and continually renew its self.
Our Values
Our congregation is guided by enduring Jewish values that shape how we live, learn, worship, and care for one another. Rooted in Jewish tradition, these principles define the character of our sacred community and the way we strive to interact with one another and the world. Members of and visitors to Congregation B’nai Brith are expected to uphold these values in their conduct within the synagogue community.
HONOR AND RESPECT – כבוד (Kavod)
We treat every person with dignity and kindness in speech, behavior, and conduct while embracing diversity within our community.
WELCOMING GUESTS – אורחים הכנסת (Hachnasat Orchim)
We create a vibrant and inclusive community where all are greeted warmly and made to feel at home.
CONNECTION WITH THE JEWISH PEOPLE –ישראל כלל (Klal Yisrael)
We express our pride of and responsibility toward Jewish people everywhere.
LIFELONG LEARNING AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH – תורה תלמוד (Talmud Torah)
We value study, reflection, and the transmission of Jewish wisdom as pathways to growth, innovation, and a deeper understanding of our Jewish tradition and faith.
JUSTICE THROUGH GIVING – צדקה (Tzedakah)
We use our resources, time, and skills to support those in need, strengthen the community, and repair our World.
By living these values we create sacred community – grounded in shared purpose, caring, gratitude, mutual responsibility, and spiritual life – קדושה קהילה (Kehillah Kedoshah)