FAQ

Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about Kehillat Beijing:

Where and when are Friday night Shabbat services held?
Check our Services page

Can I stay near the Kehillah?
There are several international hotels and several Chinese hotels near the Capital Athletic Club where we hold our Shabbat services. The Chinese hotels which are closer include Kunlun Hotel and Huadu Hotel. The international hotels, which are approximately fifteen minutes by foot and involve crossing a major street (which is an exciting and life-threatening pastime enjoyed by residents of Beijing and shared generously with our visitors!), include Sheraton Great Wall Hotel and Hilton Hotel.

Are your meals kosher?
Our community meals are prepared by the kitchen of the Capital Club which is not a kosher facility. The ingredients are not kosher, however, meals are prepared “kosher style,” which means that pork or shellfish is not included in any meals and and menus are selected to be either “meat” or “dairy,” depending upon the occasion. In general, most meals are primarily vegetarian, with a fish entree. The Capital Club does moreover, regularly include traditional Ashkenazi favorites on the menu, often based on recipes provided by members of the Community. Although the food is not strictly kosher, many observant Jews find they are delighted with the range of delicious vegetarian selections, including the only knish in Beijing.

Are there Saturday services?
Generally speaking, we do not hold services on Saturday. From time to time, we have put out a call for a minyan to hold prayers, so let us know if you have a special request. We have a Sefer Torah generously donated by Dr. and Mrs. Jordan Phillips. Our only regularly scheduled Torah services are during the high holidays. Nonetheless, we conduct an occasional bar or bat mitzvah and have held special services on behalf of guests passing through Beijing.

Can I plan a Bar or Bat Mitzvah at Kehillat Beijing?
Yes! Check our Bar/Bat Mitzvah page.

Who is the rabbi of Kehillat Beijing?
Kehillat Beijing is a lay-led congregation. We typically bring a rabbi in for high holidays and sometimes for other major holidays or events.

Are there high holiday services?
Yes

How did Kehillat Beijing get started?
Check out our history page.

How can I join Kehillat Beijing?
Check out our membership and donations page.

How can I donate to support Kehillat Beijing?
Check out our membership and donations page.

Are there any other Jewish congregations in Beijing?
Yes, there is a vibrant Chabad community as well.

Where can I find other Jewish web resources?

Where is the Capital Club Athletic Center?
Check out the location page for Capital Club.