Community & Participation
At Prospect Heights Shul, community is at the 
of everything we do.
Whether you're showing up for Shabbat, seeking support through a life milestone, exploring conversion, or helping your children grow in Jewish life, there’s a place for you here. Below, you'll find some of the many ways to connect, participate, and be part of our shared journey.
For more information about joining PHS, visit our Membership page!
Minyan
Our minyanim are warm, soulful, and rooted in traditional halacha. While our services follow Orthodox liturgy, the atmosphere is open, welcoming, and deeply community-oriented.
We use a non-intimidating mechitzah with equal space on both the men’s and women’s sides, creating a sense of balance, presence, and shared spiritual energy. Women are invited to lead parts of the tefillah that are halachically appropriate and frequently share words of Torah with the congregation.
Children are always welcome—whether they’re sitting with you, moving between spaces, or participating in our youth programming. If you’re new or visiting, we encourage you to introduce yourself. We’re always happy to help you find your place, follow along, and feel at home.
Lifecycle
Whether you’re celebrating a birth, a b-mitzvah, a wedding, or navigating the pain of illness, loss, or mourning, we’re here to walk beside you.
Rabbi Leener and our community leadership are available to offer guidance, pastoral support, and help shape moments that are rooted in tradition and reflective of your family’s values and story.
We offer support with brit milah and baby namings, b-mitzvah preparation, marriage, funerals, shiva coordination, and more.
If you're marking a milestone or going through a life transition, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we're here to hold space, offer support, and walk this path with you.
Conversion
We are honored to walk alongside individuals who feel called to join the Jewish people.
Our community partners with Project Ruth, a halachic, Modern Orthodox conversion program rooted in compassion, authenticity, and meaningful learning. Those pursuing conversion are guided by Rabbi Leener and warmly embraced by our shul community throughout the journey.
At PHS, we strive to create a space where those exploring Judaism feel encouraged, seen, and supported—never pressured, but always genuinely welcomed.
If you’re considering conversion, or simply exploring what a Jewish life could look like, we’d be honored to speak with you.
Every journey begins with a conversation.
Children's Programming
At PHS, we believe that children are an essential part of our community—not just the future, but the present. Our youth program offers a fun, inclusive, and educational space for kids of all ages to grow, connect, and feel at home.
During services, children are divided into two age-based groups, each led by our dedicated Youth Supervisors (ages 16+), who facilitate games, activities, and learning. This gives parents the chance to participate in services with peace of mind, knowing their children are engaged and well cared for.
Our educators and volunteers lead interactive sessions filled with tefillah, storytelling, singing, games, and lessons about the weekly parsha. Programs run during the Torah reading and are designed to be welcoming and accessible for every child, regardless of prior experience.
Group 1: Ages 0-5
Our youngest participants enjoy a joyful Tot Shabbat program, led by parents on a rotating basis (let us know if you'd like to join!).
Tot Shabbat meets each week at 11:00 AM and includes singing, Shabbat rituals like kiddush and motzi, and plenty of playful exploration.
Children also have access to a variety of age-appropriate toys, games, and snacks in a warm, relaxed setting.
Group 2: Ages 5+
Older children engage more deeply with the weekly parsha and Jewish holidays through storytelling, games, and discussion. Each week, kids are invited to share their thoughts, ask questions, and explore midrashim together.
They also enjoy access to classic games like Jenga, chess, checkers, and cards, blending learning and fun in an inclusive, welcoming space.
