FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
VISITING
Are your services and events open to the public?
Yes. Unless otherwise indicated all are welcome at our events including services.
Are groups allowed to attend events or do you offer special events for larger groups including students?
Yes. We encourage groups including confirmation classes, religious studies classes, adult education groups, and more to attend our services or come for a discussion but we'd ask you to schedule your visit, particularly if you want to have Rabbi Davis and our Welcoming Committee greet you, provide a discussion and question/answer session, or provide specific insights on a particular topic.
ATTENDING AN EVENT
Are tickets required for High Holy Day services?
No. Unlike many congregations in Jewish urban areas of America, we do not charge for tickets. However, seating is guaranteed to our members first, and we'd like you to "register" as a guest - even our HHD services are open to the public.
I've been invited to a wedding, funeral, or bar/bat mitzvah. What should I expect?
We are part of the Reform Judaism movement so guests regardless of their own religious or spiritual beliefs or background are welcome to attend services and participate in an event. We have ample prayer books and Torah and Rabbi Davis will help guide you through services and ceremonies. Kippah/yarmulke and tallit are also available for visitors to borrow - both are optional and men and women are welcome to wear neither/either/both. We want you to be comfortable and to enjoy your time with us. If there is something you should/not specifically do - we'll make sure you know that.
What are the costs for participation?
While our members are required to make financial arrangements as part of their application process, most of our events are free with donations strongly encouraged. When we have events that carry a cost (certain dinners and festival celebrations, for instance), we'll make sure that cost is communicated in the promotion of the event.
You can pay with cash or a check (made payable to "Congregation Emanu-El") at the door or register and pay for events ahead of time using online payment options or by mailing or dropping your payment at our main office. Please call ahead.
DELI DAY
Where can I learn more about Deli Day?
You can find all information on the upcoming Deli Day (our signature community fundraiser) by contacting our main office. We look forward to you joining us for this delicious annual tradition.
We intend to hold Deli Day this year in November. Look for more information coming soon on our webpage!
GETTING INVOLVED
I'd like to get more involved with you through participation, membership, or perhaps even conversion. How do I get started?
Your best resource for getting involved is to call our office and they will put you in touch with the proper people so that you can come to an event. If you want to talk about specific opportunities with our committees, membership, or conversion - let's talk about that, too. Our Contact Us form will help you get in touch with the right people to match your interests.
MEMBERSHIP
I'd like more information about membership and the financial expectations of membership. How can I have that discussion?
Our membership committee is your best resource for more information. Use our Contact Us form and we'll ensure someone gets in touch with you as soon as possible.
OUR CEMETERY
Does the congregation have its own cemetery? How do I learn more about burial options?
We do have our own cemetery here in Wichita. Use our Contact Us form to express interest and we'll have someone from our Cemetery Committee get in touch as soon as possible.
VOLUNTEERING
I have to perform community service and/or contribute volunteer hours to a local organization. Do you have any need for volunteers?
We have various opportunities for volunteering and would never refuse an offer to help without at least talking about it first. Use our Contact Us form to tell us a little more about where your interest lies and how you think you could help us out. We'll get that to the right person(s) who will be in touch.
SOMETHING ELSE
Didn't see your question or a clear answer to it above? Let us know how we can help using our "CONTACT US" form. We'll get back to you as soon as possible.