Riverdale Temple is a progressive, welcoming, multi-generational Reform congregation located in the Riverdale sectioin of the Bronx. The warmth and intelligence of our spiritual leaders and of our membership–coupled with the physical beauty of our easily accessed location– attract congregants of all backgrounds, from Manhattan and Westchester, as well as from the local community. At Riverdale Temple all are welcome to participate in temple life, no matter what their approach to Judaism or degree of Jewish literacy.We are committed to an inclusive approach to Jewish life, and we celebrate the diversity of our membership.
Our congregation includes singles, couples, those from Jewish and non-Jewish backgrounds, members of LGBTQIA community– and we all share a desire to study and celebrate with open minds, intellectual curiosity and mutual respect, for each other and for Jewish history and our heritage. At Riverdale Temple, we explore the beauty, worship, customs and camaraderie of Judaism- in the meaningful tradition of true Reform congregations. In fact, we are the first Reform congregation in Riverdale and we remain the only local Reform congregation affiliated with the Union for Reform Judaism. We were founded in 1947 and our current building was dedicated in September,1954.
At Riverdale Temple, understandable and enjoyable servies are complemented by plenty of joyous, participatory music. Some members wear head coverings and tallit (prayer shawl), whle others do not. This reflects a fundamental tente of Reform Judaism:, each individual determines which practices have spiritual signifcance for him or her, yet we all share a commitment to moral and ethical conduct. We encourage you to follow the traditions that feel most appropriate for you. For detailed information about our traditions and their history and purpose, we urge you to partiocipate in a Riverdale Temple service, to see what it’s all about here.
Looking ahead to the next generation of congregants, it is instructive to note that Rabbi Gardner is available to meet with prospective congregants to provide additional information about our congregation and help you identify and pursue the many ways in which synagogue affiliation can enrich your Jewish life. His door is always open. Please feel free to call him to set up an appointment .(718 548 3800 ext. 4)(rabbigardner@riverdaletemple.org).