Congregation Beth Israel

Congregation Beth Israel Ner Tamid Milwaukee: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Congregation Beth Israel Ner Tamid (CBINT), located in Glendale just north of Milwaukee, is a beacon of Jewish heritage and community life in Wisconsin. With roots dating back to 1884, CBINT reflects the story of Milwaukee’s Jewish immigrant communities and the evolution of American Judaism. From its early days as an Orthodox congregation founded by Lithuanian immigrants to its current role as Milwaukee’s sole Conservative synagogue, CBINT is both a religious sanctuary and a cultural landmark. The synagogue’s mid-century modernist campus, situated on a spacious 15-acre site, is renowned for its welcoming, egalitarian sanctuary and its commitment to inclusivity, education, and social justice.

This guide provides comprehensive information for visitors—covering historical background, religious significance, visiting hours, ticketing policies, guided tours, accessibility, and travel tips. Whether you are a history enthusiast, architecture admirer, or seeking to engage with Milwaukee’s Jewish heritage, CBINT offers a meaningful and immersive experience.

Learn more about CBINT on their official website, and explore Milwaukee’s Jewish legacy through the Milwaukee Jewish Federation and the Visit Milwaukee Jewish Heritage page.

Historical Overview
Religious and Cultural Significance
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Tours
Architectural and Artistic Highlights
Community Engagement and Social Justice
Practical Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Nearby Attractions
Conclusion and Call to Action
References and Resources

Historical Overview

Founding and Early Development (1884–1901)

CBINT’s origins trace to 1884, when Lithuanian Jewish immigrants established Congregation B’ne Jacob in Milwaukee’s Hay Market neighborhood. Internal differences led to a brief split into Moses Montefiore Gemeinde and Anshe Jacob, but by 1891, the community reunited as Beth Hamedrash Hagadol. Rabbi Solomon Isaac Scheinfeld, who became the congregation’s first permanent rabbi in 1892, shaped its religious life for over four decades. Early financial challenges included the foreclosure of their 1893 synagogue, but the group successfully reorganized as Beth Israel in 1901 and reclaimed their building.

Growth, Migration, and Architectural Evolution (1901–1960)

By the 1920s, Beth Israel was thriving, prompting construction of a larger synagogue at 2432 North Teutonia Avenue in 1925, designed by Herman Bruns and seating 1,400 congregants. As Milwaukee’s Jewish population gradually moved to the suburbs, the congregation secured a new 15-acre site in Glendale in 1957. The Teutonia Avenue building, now on the National Register of Historic Places since 1992, remains a testament to the community’s enduring presence.

Transition to Conservative Judaism

Originally Orthodox, the congregation began to incorporate Conservative practices by the 1930s, introducing mixed seating and English-language sermons. After relocating to Glendale, Beth Israel formally affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, eventually merging in 2012 with Temple Beth El Ner Tamid to become CBINT—Milwaukee’s only Conservative synagogue.

Modern Campus and Community Role (1960–Present)

The Glendale campus was developed in stages from 1962 to 1980. A major 2006 renovation created flexible spaces for worship, education, and events. CBINT’s legacy includes long-serving clergy such as Rabbis Scheinfeld, Panitch, and Herber, with Rabbi Joel Alter serving as the current spiritual leader. Today, CBINT is active in social justice, interfaith outreach, and support for global Jewish communities, notably the Abayudaya Jewish community in Uganda.

Religious and Cultural Significance

Worship and Community Life

Shabbat services are held on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings, supplemented by holiday observances and special programs (CBINT Service Schedule). The congregation blends traditional Hebrew liturgy with English, reflecting its Conservative Jewish identity and commitment to inclusivity.

Life Cycle and Educational Programs

CBINT hosts Jewish life cycle events such as brit milah, bar/bat mitzvah, weddings, and funerals, supporting families through key milestones (CBINT Life Cycle). The religious school and adult education offerings include Hebrew instruction, Torah study, and discussion groups, open to both members and visitors (CBINT Education).

A core value at CBINT is tikkun olam—repairing the world—manifested through food drives, refugee assistance, and partnerships with local charities (CBINT Social Action). The synagogue also collaborates with organizations like the Milwaukee Jewish Federation and the Harry & Rose Samson Family Jewish Community Center on community programming (Milwaukee Jewish Federation).

Interfaith and Holocaust Education

CBINT is a leader in interfaith dialogue, regularly hosting joint events with Christian, Muslim, and other faith communities (Interfaith Conference of Greater Milwaukee). The congregation sponsors Holocaust remembrance programs and partners with the Nathan and Esther Pelz Holocaust Education Resource Center (HERC Milwaukee).

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Tours

Address: 6880 North Green Bay Avenue, Glendale, WI 53209
Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday, 10:00 AM–2:00 PM; Weekend hours may vary with services and events—check the CBINT website for up-to-date schedules.
Admission: Free for general visits and tours; donations welcome. Tickets may be required for select concerts, lectures, or special programs.
Guided Tours: Available by appointment; request via phone or website for in-depth exploration of CBINT’s history, architecture, and art.
Parking: Ample free parking on-site.
Accessibility: Ramps, wide corridors, accessible restrooms, and seating accommodate all visitors.
Photography: Permitted in designated areas during tours; restricted during services. Permission required for sanctuary photography.

For service times and event details, visit the CBINT calendar.

Architectural and Artistic Highlights

CBINT’s Glendale campus is an example of mid-20th-century modernist synagogue architecture, blending clean lines, brick and concrete materials, and large windows for abundant natural light. The sanctuary’s egalitarian design emphasizes community participation, with flexible seating and a central bimah. The ark (Aron Kodesh) is crafted from fine wood and adorned with Jewish symbols, while artistic features such as stained glass, tapestries, and memorial plaques enrich the spiritual atmosphere.

Social halls and educational facilities are designed for adaptability, supporting a wide range of programs and events. Visitors are encouraged to explore the sanctuary, educational wing, and mini-museum exhibits that highlight the congregation’s history.

CBINT’s commitment to tikkun olam is reflected in its social justice initiatives, including food drives, refugee resettlement, and partnerships with local and global Jewish communities (CBINT Social Action). The congregation is also active in interfaith dialogue, hosting joint programs and educational events with other faith groups (Interfaith Conference of Greater Milwaukee).

Annual cultural celebrations, such as the Purim carnival, Hanukkah parties, and Passover seders, are open to the public and foster Jewish cultural exchange (CBINT Events).

Practical Visitor Tips

Dress Code: Modest attire is recommended, especially when attending services; kippot (head coverings) are available.
Security: Photo ID may be required; expect standard security checks.
Advance Notice: For large groups or tour appointments, contact the synagogue office in advance.
Nearby Attractions: Enhance your visit by exploring the Jewish Museum Milwaukee and the Harry & Rose Samson Family Jewish Community Center, both located nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for Congregation Beth Israel Ner Tamid?
A: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday, 10:00 AM–2:00 PM. Weekend hours may vary—check the CBINT website for current information.

Q: Is there an admission fee or do I need tickets?
A: General admission is free; tickets are required only for select special events.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment—contact the synagogue office for scheduling.

Q: Is the synagogue accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, CBINT is fully accessible.

Q: Can non-Jewish visitors attend services?
A: Yes, all are welcome; please observe synagogue etiquette.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Yes, with permission in designated areas; restricted during services.

Nearby Attractions

Jewish Museum Milwaukee
Harry & Rose Samson Family Jewish Community Center
Milwaukee’s North Shore parks and cultural sites

Visuals and Media

CBINT Exterior Stained Glass Windows

For additional images, virtual tours, and multimedia resources, visit the CBINT website and the Visit Milwaukee Jewish Heritage page.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Congregation Beth Israel Ner Tamid is a central pillar of Milwaukee’s Jewish heritage, offering visitors a rich tapestry of history, architecture, culture, and community engagement. With free general admission, accessible facilities, and a welcoming spirit, CBINT provides a meaningful destination for those exploring Milwaukee’s religious and historical sites. Enhance your visit by attending a service, joining a guided tour, or participating in cultural events—and consider exploring nearby institutions for a comprehensive understanding of Milwaukee’s Jewish legacy.

For current hours, event schedules, and ticketing information, consult the CBINT official website. Stay engaged with community news and special programs by following CBINT’s social media channels or signing up for their newsletter. To deepen your experience, download the Audiala mobile app for audio tours and exclusive content about CBINT and other Milwaukee religious landmarks.