Welcome to B’nai Israel

B‘nai Israel Synagogue in Grand Forks, North Dakota is a small but vibrant congregation that provides lifelong opportunities for spiritual growth and learning based on modern Jewish values.

Our members represent a variety of Jewish traditions and backgrounds, and come from Grand Forks, the Grand Forks Air Base, the University of North Dakota and surrounding communities.

Members of every Jewish denomination are welcome to attend our services, as are non-Jewish visitors. Please introduce yourself so we can answer any questions you may have. If you’d like to arrange a group visit, please contact us in advance at ndbnaiisrael@gmail.com .

We are located at 601 Cottonwood St in Grand Forks, ND. (MAP)
Please see the Contact page for our mailing address.

SERVICES AND CLASSES

Although we are usually served by a student from Hebrew Union College, this year we weren’t  assigned a student. Therefore, we’re making arrangements with other rabbis in the region as they’re available. The specific schedule is sent to newsletter subscribers. 

You can subscribe with the button below, or email us for more information.


Keep in touch with the Newsletter and social media.

Help Restore Or Social Hall

Our social hall and kitchen sustained extensive water and mold damage. Click the button to see how you can help restore our historic building.

Helping by Hosting

There are many volunteer opportunities to help at B’nai Israel. Three of these are to host the student rabbi for Shabbat dinner, to provide the Oneg after Shabbat service, or to offer transportation support.

Shabbat dinner can be in your home or at a local restaurant. The host is expected to pick up the student’s tab, but other guests you invite will pay their own.

The Oneg need not be elaborate. A challah and other light refreshments (fruit, cookies,etc) will be appreciated.

Transportation support could be loaning a car for the student’s use during visit, driving from and to the airport, etc.

Please visit the Hosting Sign-up page if you can help.

Jewish View of the Afterlife

What Comes Next?

There are many beliefs, myths and legends about what happens after death. Rabbi Jonathan Sacks Z’L explains what Judaism believes.

From the Union For Reform Judaism / Reform Movement

From Song to Strength: A Shabbat of Solidarity and Resilience at Jacobs Camp

From Song to Strength: A Shabbat of Solidarity and Resilience at Jacobs Camp jemerman

In the wake of the arson attack at Beth Israel that occurred two weeks ago, Jews across the South came together this past weekend for Shabbat.

Introducing Elana Arian, the Musical Director of the 2026 Biennial

Introducing Elana Arian, the Musical Director of the 2026 Biennial jemerman

As Musical Director for the 2026 URJ Biennial, Elana Arian will curate and lead the event’s musical elements — from large-scale prayer and song sessions to collaborative performances showcasing the diversity and vitality of Jewish musical expression.

Standing in Community After the Beth Israel Arson

Standing in Community After the Beth Israel Arson urjadmin

The fire damaged walls and rooms, books and belongings, but did not diminish the bonds that hold this community together.

Art is for Everyone - Especially on Shabbat!

Art is for Everyone - Especially on Shabbat! jemerman

Find out what makes Shabbat special at URJ 6 Points Creative Arts Academy!