Bethesda Jewish Congregation

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Bethesda Jewish Congregation

Creative Judaism Rooted in Tradition

We serve Jews from traditional and liberal religious backgrounds, as well as secular Jews, interfaith couples, and their families. We vary in degree of observance and cultural practice, bringing new vitality to our tradition while maintaining continuity with our heritage, our people, and our history. BJC chooses to remain independent and unaffiliated with established movements, taking a trans-denominational approach to Jewish worship and thought. Music and congregant participation infuse all of our services. Our programs enable everyone to engage fully with our traditions no matter their level of Jewish knowledge or practice.

Join with us on your Jewish journey, and become part of our community.

Click here for the Membership Registration Form

Registration for 2025-2026 Youth Education is now open!

Help us make Friday nights even more special by volunteering to host an Oneg Shabbat. It's easy, meaningful, and a wonderful way to support our community. Bring a few treats, set the tone for connection, and be part of the Shabbat experience.

Upcoming Events & Campaigns

All Events

Friday ,
JanJanuary 23 , 2026

Mishloach Manot Purim Fundraiser 2026
Friday, Jan 23rd 12:00p to Friday, Feb 20th 12:00p
BJC is thrilled to kick off our 2026 Mishloach Manot Fundraiser! This beautiful Purim tradition of giving food gifts spreads joy, connection, and ensures everyone can celebrate. Each $10 gift supports BJC while bringing smiles to our community. Join us and be part of this fun, meaningful mitzvah!
MORE INFO
Friday ,
FebFebruary 6 , 2026

Family Shabbat!
Friday, Feb 6th 5:30p to 8:30p
It's Family Shabbat at BJC! Join Rabbi Abbott for a short tot shabbat service at 5:30 PM followed by a 6:00 PM pizza dinner. Regular Friday night services will start at 6:45 PM. If it's your birthday, make sure to come and get a special blessing! RSVP required for dinner. There's no charge for dinner but donations are always welcome.
Register Now

MORE INFO
Saturday ,
FebFebruary 28 , 2026

Purim Spiel & Carnival
Shabbat, Feb 28th 4:00p to 7:00p
Purim Joy is on the way at BJC!  Saturday, February 28 | 4:00 to 7:00 PM Warm up those vocal cords and bring your Purim spirit! The fun kicks off in Covenant Hall with Spiel Karaoke and a lively Megillah Reading you won’t want to miss. Then head over to Memorial Hall for a full on Purim Carnival with inflatable fun, games, crafts, pizza, popcorn, and so much more. Need a grown ups only encore? Stop by the Shushan Lounge for festive cocktails for ages 21 and over. Registration is required by February 26.
Register Now

MORE INFO

BJC is Here for You

Our BJC Staff members are available by phone or email to answer any questions.

BJC Main Office Phone: 301-469-8636

Rabbi Eric L. Abbott rabbiabbott@bethesdajewish.org

Rabbi Emeritus Sunny Schnitzer rabbisunny@bethesdajewish.org

G eryl Baer, Synagogue Director, geryl@bethesdajewish.org

Jessica Lieberson, Communications and Engagement Director, jessica@bethesdajewish.org

Rebecca Leavey, Religious School Coordinator, becky@bethesdajewish.org

Office Hours (all times Eastern)

Tuesday thru Thursday 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Friday 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Friday evening and Saturday the office is closed for Shabbat*.

Sunday and Monday our offices are closed.

Weekend messages will be returned on Tuesday unless urgent.

Pastoral Care

Please remember that you remain part of a loving and caring community concerned for your spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. Should you or a family member experience any illness, injury, loss, or simply wish to talk to someone, please contact the Rabbi.

Welcome to BJC's website and membership database: Shul Cloud

Shul Cloud is designed to make it easy, to stay informed about services and programs, stay connected and find members in the directory. It also allows you to pay for synagogue support, register for programs, and make donations.

Once you create your personal login, you can also use it to update personal contact information, add yahrzeits, anniversaries and other simchas you'd like to share. In addition, you can find other members' contact information under My Directory.

1st Step: Click on MY ACCOUNT at the top of this page and use your email to login. Need help? Contact Geryl Baer at admin@bethesdajewish.org or call the office.

2nd Step" Review this ShulCloud 101 PDF to guide you through the set-up of online transactions. Save your stamps, and the trees.

Use Shul Cloud.