Join us tonight for Kabbalat Shabbat – a Friday night service for the entire congregation. The event is open to all. Following services, join us for Kiddush.

Kabbalat Shabbat: 6:30 PM | Kiddush: 7:30 PM

We ask you optionally RSVP here, if you’re able in advance.

Come bake and break bread with us on Sunday, May 3 from 3:00–5:00 PM at ACI — a hands-on "Counting the Omer: From Earth to Bread" event hosted by Adamah NY with support from ACI and The Wandering Jews of Astoria. Suggested cost is $36, with a sliding scale at registration so cost doesn't deter anyone.

PJ Library, the organization that sends free Jewish storybooks to children in Queens and around the world every month, is partnering with us this spring cleaning season for a special Book Drop at Astoria Center of Israel!

Do you have PJ Library books at home that your kids have outgrown? Drop them off in the lobby between Friday, April 24 and Monday, May 4. Your gently used books will go on to spark Jewish joy for another family — while making space on your shelves for new stories!

Drop-off hours:

• Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• Tuesday: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Saturday, Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Our synagogue is a proud member of the Adamah Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition, which offers members access to interest-free loans and matching grants to fund real facility improvements — from energy efficiency and solar to waste reduction and sustainable purchasing.

To take advantage of these opportunities, we need a few motivated members to help us build a proactive plan. No prior expertise required — just enthusiasm for our community and our planet.

Interested? Reach out to Rebecca Dengrove

This week in Hebrew class, our students embarked on an exciting “trip” to Israel in celebration of Yom Ha’Atzmaut! The classroom was transformed into a vibrant, hands-on experience where students explored Israeli culture, geography, and traditions through various engaging activities.

To deepen their understanding of Israel’s geography, students participated in an interactive Israel map board game provided through PJ Library.

Students then visited a bustling “shuk,” where they shopped for ingredients and created their own versions of Israeli salad—getting a true taste of Israeli cuisine.

Our journey continued to the “beach,” where students played the classic Israeli game matkot, followed by a science exploration of the Dead Sea. Students learned about water density and conducted salt experiments, even creating their own floating bodies of water!

They also experienced a meaningful moment by placing notes and prayers into a beautifully recreated Western Wall, thoughtfully designed by Morah Lydia. The day ended with lively Israeli dancing, led by Esther and Lydia, which brought energy and joy to the celebration.

We extend a heartfelt thank you to Shana, all of our dedicated teachers—especially Morah Lydia and Lizanne for their incredible setup—as well as Esther and Alty, and our wonderful parent volunteers. Your efforts made this immersive experience possible. Most importantly, the students had a fantastic time celebrating, learning, and connecting with Israel in such a memorable way!