An online synagogue is a fully digital Jewish community where worshippers can attend services, connect with rabbis, study Torah, and celebrate the Jewish calendar—all through the internet. Rather than a physical building, an online synagogue lives on platforms like Zoom, YouTube, and a dedicated website.
Sim Shalom is one of the most established online synagogues in the United States, having served thousands of Jewish families, interfaith couples, and seekers since its founding by Rabbi Steven Blane.
What Makes an Online Synagogue Different?
A traditional synagogue is defined by its building, its clergy, and its congregation gathered in one place. An online synagogue fulfills all of these roles—but without geographic boundaries. The rabbi leads services via live stream. The congregation gathers virtually. The learning happens through structured online courses, live sessions, and recorded content available any time.
For many people, an online synagogue is not a compromise—it is a better fit for their life. This includes:
- People who live far from a physical synagogue
- Those with mobility, health, or transportation challenges
- Interfaith families who want an inclusive, welcoming community
- People exploring Judaism before committing to membership anywhere
- Those seeking a non-judgmental, spiritually open environment
What Does Sim Shalom Offer as an Online Synagogue?
Sim Shalom functions as a complete online synagogue, offering the full range of Jewish community life:
- Daily and Shabbat Services — Live services Monday through Friday at 7PM EST and Friday Shabbat at 6:30PM EST via Zoom, YouTube, and Facebook
- Jewish Conversion Online — A complete, self-paced conversion program with eight courses, group sessions, Mikvah guidance, and an online Bet Din
- Jewish Life Cycle Ceremonies — Bar and Bat Mitzvah, weddings, baby namings, and funerals conducted by our rabbis online or in person
- Torah Study and Learning — Access to prayer books (Siddurim), holiday guides, and educational resources
- Community and Connection — A live chat room, interactive Zoom services, and a community of welcoming, diverse members
- Donation and Support — As a 501(c)(3) organization, Sim Shalom relies on community support to keep all services free and accessible
Is Sim Shalom a Real Synagogue?
Yes. Sim Shalom is a fully legitimate Jewish congregation led by ordained rabbis. Rabbi Steven Blane, our founder, is an ordained rabbi who has performed thousands of Jewish life cycle ceremonies and guided hundreds of converts to Judaism over his decades of service.
As a Jewish Universalist synagogue, Sim Shalom operates in the liberal Jewish tradition, welcoming people of all backgrounds, interfaith families, and those at any stage of their Jewish journey.
Join Sim Shalom’s Online Synagogue Community
Whether you want to attend a service tonight, begin a Jewish conversion journey, or simply connect with a warm, non-judgmental Jewish community, Sim Shalom’s online synagogue is here for you.
Visit our Daily Services page to join tonight’s service, or contact us at conversions@simshalom.com to learn more about everything Sim Shalom has to offer.