Beth El Hebrew Congregation

Beth El Hebrew Congregation is a synagogue in Alexandria serving as a space for worship, education, and community life. The building contains a sanctuary for prayer, classrooms for religious education, and meeting areas for gatherings.

The congregation was founded in 1859 by forty Jewish families and remains the oldest active Jewish community in Northern Virginia. It played an important role in the region's social justice movements.

The congregation welcomes visitors during services, where the sanctuary shows a blend of traditional Jewish symbols and contemporary design. You will notice people gathering for communal prayer, reflecting how the community continues to practice their faith together.

The building is open to visitors during services, allowing you to participate in communal prayer and observe worship practices. It helps to check service times in advance and dress respectfully.

Rabbi Emmet Frank publicly opposed segregation policies in 1958, showing the congregation's commitment to social justice. This stance shaped the community's identity across decades.

Location: Alexandria

Inception: 1957

Website: http://bethelhebrew.org

GPS coordinates: 38.82058,-77.09627

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:27