Temple Beth El

Shalom and Welcome

Wondering about things Jewish in Dubuque? You've come to the right place. Our spiritual leader is long-time congregant and past president, Alan Garfield (agarfield@hotmail.com).

Who we are - Mission

Temple Beth El is a Reform Jewish Congregation just west of the Mississippi River with about 25 member families. At over 175 years old, we seek to fulfill our religious and ethical goals for our members by being a center for spiritual growth, life-long learning, cultural enrichment, community leadership, social responsibility, and by lovingly entrusting our Reform Jewish traditions from generation to generation. We are committed in our support of the Jewish people throughout the world.

Have a "Wicked" Hanukkah

Thanks to Cantor Kate and Emily ... here is Six13's Hanukkah take on Wicked (the musical and now the movie hit). Here is the link.

Children of Abraham Conversation. 10-17-2024

As one of the founding members of the Children of Abraham, Temple Beth El is active and hosts interfaith conversations. We all built the sukkah, had a short service, and went into Temple for our C of A conversation. Over 150 people attended: students from Clarke, Emmaus, and Loras as well as many Dubuquers. Click here to view our Sukkot celebration.

An Incomplete History of Jews in Dubuque

Click here to view this short pdf paper.
I am frequently asked about the history of Temple Beth El and about Jews in Dubuque, Iowa, in general. Unfortunately, we have no records at the Temple. But thanks to many sources including Loras College, Iowa Jewish Historical Society in Des Moines, and various key individuals including Ellie Landau, Cindy Pearce, and Karen Pritikin, we can piece some of our history together. I’m happy to present it to you here, in an admittedly unfinished state. Alan Garfield

Bring the hostages home

Covid-19 Policy

Temple Beth El does not require a mask for entering the building. During large gatherings, individual masking is encouraged and appreciated, but it is not required. Masks will continue to be available at the main entrance, and individuals who choose to wear masks or not to wear masks will be graciously welcomed. We encourage all eligible community members to get vaccinated and boosted. If you have had a close contact with a person infected with Covid-19, we ask that you comply with CDC guidelines on when to stay home. The Temple Board will continue to monitor and discuss the situation on an ongoing basis and make policy revisions as necessary as it has throughout the pandemic.

Passover Parody by Six13

Some Past Activities