About Beth El Jacob
"Fun"..."Exciting"..."Cool"..."Meaningful"..."Open"..."Friendly".  Often synagogue members may not describe their shul like this.  We do.  We find that it is important to care for people no matter their level or ability.  Our entire reason for being here is dictated by our members.  And, while the observance level of each family may vary, our goal is to help everyone learn how to do better.  We are all, if you will, "works in progress".

That being said, we are proud to be affiliated with the Orthodox Union.  We believe that the true meaning and purpose of human life is best expressed through devotion to the Torah through the principles of the OU.  For 120 years, Beth El Jacob has functioned as a meaningful link for all Jews. We don't see that changing in the near future.

While we offer plenty in the way of faith and education (adults and children), we also offer the very best city in the Midwest. Hands down, Des Moines is simply a great community.  It is small enough to fully enjoy, but large enough to offer a host of things to do.  We invite you to link up with our city by visiting The Greater Des Moines Partnership (http://www.desmoinesmetro.com/).  We offer opportunity to balance both the Jewish world and the secular world in a city that offers excellent jobs and a very reasonable cost of living.  What is best about Beth El Jacob is the life we lead.  We urge you to read the letter from our Rabbi highlighting the possibilities for a new life in Des Moines, Iowa!

We've had some folks ask us about our MIKVAH and if we have one.  Do we ever!   If you require the Mikvah appointments must be made 24-hours in advance.  If you have questions, call Janice Schwarzbaum at 515-274-1551 and press extension 6 and leave a message.  Janice will call you back.

The links page has references for learning about Judaism, the Des Moines Jewish Community, jobs and the cost of living here.