New Family Room at Adath Israel Congregation provides a place to worship and tend to young children



Parents at Adath Israel Congregation no longer have to leave the service while they feed their babies or entertain their toddlers. A new Family Room allows them to participate in the service and tend to their children at the same time.


It’s all made possible with the use of closed-circuit TV. On Shabbat Morning and all holidays, services from the Main Sanctuary are transmitted to room 205 of the Jarson Education Center school building (known to the congregation now as FR205). While parents are listening to the service, their children are able to play comfortably in a setting that’s designed just for them. In addition to the closed-circuit color television, FR205 features a diaper changing table, toys, books, snacks and the assurance that no one is going to be disturbed if the kids get a little noisy.


“Over the years, Adath Israel Congregation has consistently been moving in the direction towards being more welcoming and inclusive of young families with children for Shabbat and all of our holy day programming,” says Rabbi Irvin M. Wise. “FR205 is consistent with this vision to include all who wish to attend the service, even those who may not otherwise be able to leave their children.”


The new room was planned as part of Adath Israel’s recently completed Vision Campaign. With its motto of ‘renewing space reflecting spirit,’ the campaign included renovations to the Main Sanctuary, the lobby, the Social Hall and the Jarson Education Center. Future renovations include the Youth Lounge to allow for expanded programs and services. According to Rob Festenstein, synagogue administrator, FR205 has been received exceptionally well since it was launched on Rosh Hashana in September.