About Us - Riverdale Temple

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Why Riverdale Temple

Riverdale Temple offers people from all walks of life a vibrant, progressive, multi-generational Reform Jewish community right here in Riverdale.

We are committed to a warm, caring, inclusive approach to Jewish life, and we celebrate the beautiful diversity of our membership.

Our much-loved clergy team, along with our welcoming members combine to attract congregants of all backgrounds. The Riverdale Temple community consists of people of all walks of life of life: young and old, singles and couples, young families, members of the LGBTQIA+, and includes those from Jewish and non-Jewish backgrounds.

Together, we share a desire to grow, study, celebrate, and live with intellectual curiosity and with respect for each other, for our Jewish history, and for our heritage.

We welcome you with open hearts and open minds.

More about Riverdale Temple

What are Riverdale Temple services like?

Shabbat Eve services are joyful, laid-back, and full of spirited beautiful music from the liturgy to help welcome the Shabbat spirit of peace and rest. One Friday night a month we also have Ruach Shabbat, a rousing, energizing, musical Shabbat service that features a full band and a delicious oneg, often with sushi, wine, and dessert.

Our Shabbat Morning services feature participatory singing and prayer, and center around the reading of the Torah and Haftarah, followed by a stimulating, interactive discussion. All of our services welcome members and guests of all ages.

What programs do you have for young children?

Once a month, we host a Tot Shabbat from 5:00pm–6:00pm for children five years old and under (older siblings welcome) and their families. This spirited 30-minute service with the rabbi and cantor, includes singing, dancing, the lighting of the Shabbat candles, prayer, storytelling, and concludes with Kiddush (the blessing over grape juice) and Motzi (the blessing over the challah) — and a pizza dinner!

How long has Riverdale Temple been in existence?

We were the first Reform congregation in the Bronx, and we remain the only congregation in Riverdale affiliated with the Union for Reform Judaism. We were founded in 1947 and our current building was dedicated in September, 1954.

What about parking?

There is always plenty of free, on-site parking at Riverdale Temple.

How can I find out more about Riverdale Temple?

To learn more about Riverdale Temple life, please contact Rabbi Gardner who is available to meet with prospective congregants. To arrange an appointment, please write to him at rabbigardner@riverdaletemple.org.