About Us

Welcome to Congregation Kol Emeth. We are a traditional, egalitarian Conservative synagogue located in the heart of Silicon Valley.

What We Do

The synagogue was founded in 1957 and was housed in a variety of temporary quarters near downtown Palo Alto. In 1965 we settled in our current location, and the building went through various stages including work in 1972 and 1987. In 2020 we opened a brand new building - more open and inviting that ever before. We have truly created an environment conducive to connecting, learning, celebrating, praying and being together.

Kol Emeth provides programs that meet a wide range of congregants’ needs. We offer a warm environment for Jewish study, prayer and developing a close community. Our services are participatory and led by our Rabbis and congregants. Our classes and programs encourage further involvement in the synagogue. With our growing membership, the congregation is home to families and individuals with deep roots in the area as well as many newcomers. We welcome you and extend an open invitation to come by and visit.

Lifecycle Events: Around the birth of a child, B’nai Mitzvah process, engagements and weddings, funerals and shiva, seeking Judaism

Where are you located? What is your phone number?

Our office & synagogue are located at 4175 Manuela Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306. To speak to someone on staff call 650-948-7498.
What branch of Judaism do you belong to?

Congregation Kol Emeth is an egalitarian, Conservative synagogue located in the heart of Silicon Valley. We offer a warm environment for Jewish study and prayer. Through our classes and programs, congregants have many opportunities to stay involved with the synagogue and to be part of a vibrant Jewish Community. Kol Emeth is affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism.
Can I come and visit?

We would love for you to visit. In order to keep a safe and secure space and also make your visit the best it can be, please call the office at 650-948-7498, and make an appointment to visit and/or attend services.
When are services?

We hold Friday night and Saturday morning shabbat services, holiday services, and a daily minyan. For times and locations, see the calendar, or a list of our most common services and locations, or call the office.
Do you have a daily minyan?

Yes, our minyanim are held Sunday to Thursday at 7:45 pm all year long. We also have morning minyanim at 7:15 am on Thursday and 9:15 am on Sunday.
How do I find out information about membership?

See our membership page for information and the membership application, or give us a call.
How do I enroll my child in the religious school?

Registration and enrollment information are available on the youth education pages.
How do I sponsor a kiddush for a Shabbat morning?

Every Shabbat we provide a full lunch to all attendees. Kiddush sponsorship for birthdays, engagements, aufrufs (this is the service on Shabbat right before a wedding), anniversaries and other simchas (joyous occasions) are welcome throughout the year. B'Nai Mitzvah kiddush lunches are open to everyone. Before planning an event, contact our office for more information and to see if a date is clear.
Can I bring food into the synagogue?

Kol Emeth is a kosher facility with a kosher kitchen, and for that reason, food brought into the building must come from an approved caterer. However, we do allow baked goods to be brought from home if the bakers follow the kashrut guidelines for baking. Please contact the office for an approved caterer list. *Please Note - Kol Emeth is attempting to be a nut free facility. Please make sure anything you bring does not contain nuts*
How do I find out about the various programs you offer?

Our website's Calendar offers a detailed calendar of events that is updated regularly. You can click on any program that interests you for more information. Members also have access to weekly newsletters of events, as well as a monthly newsletter called "The Voice".
How do I volunteer?

We have an active volunteer committee providing many opportunities throughout the organization. Please contact us and your inquiry will be answered promptly.
Can I use your facility for a private event?

We invite you to contact us with any questions about private events. Your inquiry will be answered promptly.
What are your Kashrut guidelines?

You can find a detailed guide of our Kashrut Guidelines here. Please contact us if you have any questions.