Elul Offerings
Prepare for the Days of Awe with the Emanu-El community.
Welcome Back Tot Shabbat
Friday, September 5
5:00 - 6:00 pm
Emanu-El Rooftop
Tot Shabbat will take place on our brand-new rooftop, which features a vibrant new play area and gathering space for all ages. It's a joyful spot to celebrate, connect, and enjoy the view. Led by Rabbi Sarah Joselow Parris with Cantor Arik Luck.
Shabbat Emanu
Shabbat ‘With Us’
Saturday Morning Service
Saturday, September 6
10:00 - 11:30 am
Martin Meyer Sanctuary
This special Shabbat morning service will feature heartfelt participation from members of our congregation alongside our clergy. Community members will help lead prayers, chant Torah, and share brief teachings, bringing added depth, warmth, and connection to our shared Shabbat experience.
Everyone is warmly encouraged to take part or simply come to rejoice in the spirit of Shabbat. A festive kiddush lunch will follow the service.
Grand Reopening Shabbat Celebration
Friday, September 12
4:00 pm - Reception
6:00 pm - Service
7:00 pm - Oneg
Main Sanctuary & Throughout Our Renovated Building
Join us for a historic celebration as we reopen our doors and mark a new beginning for Congregation Emanu-El.
Starting at 4:00 pm, all congregants are invited to a special reception where you can enjoy delicious bites and appetizers, live music, explore newly renovated gathering spaces, and reconnect with friends and the community.
From 6:00 to 7:00 pm, we'll share in an unforgettable Shabbat service led by our clergy team and featuring several guest speakers, as well as a special rededication blessing of our community's spiritual home, celebrating 100 years of Jewish life at 2 Lake Street.
Selichot
Saturday, September 13
10:00 - 11:00 pm
Main Sanctuary
Selichot marks the first major step in shifting our mindset toward the High Holy Days. Tradition teaches us that midnight through dawn is the time when God's mercy is most accessible, which is why Selichot is customarily observed late in the evening.
As we approach this sacred season, we invite you to a unique and intimate late-night Selichot service—returning for its second year by popular demand. Held in the stillness of the night, this powerful gathering offers a space for deep reflection and repentance.
Join us for a candlelit, acoustic, and unplugged service, enhanced by Moroccan tea and pastries served beforehand in the foyer. Come open your heart and soul as we prepare for the Days of Awe in a serene and meaningful atmosphere. Led by Rabbis Ryan Bauer and Noah Westreich with Cantor Marsha Attie. Pastries and tea starting at 9:30 pm.
Where Do We Belong?
Rethinking Homeland, Home, and the Jewish Future
with Dr. Yehuda Kutzer
Wednesday, September 17
7:00 - 8:30 pm
Martin Meyer Sanctuary
October 7th shook the foundations of how many Jews relate to both Israel and the Diaspora. This conversation explores what it means to live with layered commitments–to America, to Israel, to the Jewish people. How do we hold complex loyalties without being torn apart by them?
Yehuda Kurtzer will be in conversation with Senior Rabbi Ryan Bauer.
Organ Meditation Concert
Friday, September 19
5:00 - 6:00 pm
Main Sanctuary
Let the rich, contemplative tones of our historic organ guide you into stillness and reflection. Featuring traditional melodies of the High Holy Days, this meditative concert offers a peaceful space to slow down, breathe deeply, and connect to the spiritual essence of the season. Led by Cantors Marsha Attie and Arik Luck.
Shabbat Shuva
Friday, September 19
6:00 - 7:00 pm
Main Sanctuary
Led by Rabbis Sydney Mintz and Sarah Joselow Parris with Cantor Arik Luck.
High Holy Days Mikvot
Meditate, chant, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking Pacific Ocean at this year’s mikvot. Bring warm clothes, a towel, and an open heart.
Women’s Mikvah with Cantor Marsha Attie and Rabbi Rena Singer
Sunday, September 21
8:30 - 9:30 am
Baker Beach
Our morning mikvah for female-identifying community members continues our serene annual tradition at Baker Beach.
Men's Mikvah with Rabbi Ryan Bauer
Wednesday, September 24
6:30 - 7:30 am
Baker Beach
This mikvah is for male-identifying community members and ends in time for participants to attend our 2nd Day Rosh HaShanah morning service.