A Home for Every Voice at Congregation Tehillah

In a neighborhood known for its diversity and sense of connection, Congregation Tehillah stands out as a place where everyone truly belongs. The small, non-denominational synagogue in Riverdale has built a reputation not through grandeur or formality, but through inclusion and shared spirit.

“From the moment you walk in, someone greets you by name,” says Co-President Kathy Schreiner. “It’s about people showing up for each other, celebrating together, and learning together.”

Rabbi Linda, Congregation Tehillah

A Different Kind of Synagogue Experience

Founded more than two decades ago by a group of forward-thinking members from diverse backgrounds, Tehillah (Hebrew for “praise”) offers a meaningful and modern Jewish experience.

“We’re not orthodox, conservative, or reform,” Schreiner explains. “We take inspiration from all streams of Judaism, and what unites us is the music, the spirituality, and the sense of community.”

Under the leadership of Rabbi Linda Shriner-Cahn, now in her eighteenth year, Tehillah’s services are known for their uplifting music and open participation. The congregation’s band brings together viola, bass, piano, violin, and Middle Eastern percussion, creating a sound as diverse as its membership.

Learning and Leading Across Generations

Education and leadership are central to Tehillah's identity and nowhere is that more evident than in its Student Board and post-B'nai Mitzvah engagement program. Integrated seamlessly into the Tehillah community are its children and teens, many of whom are bi-or multiracial and come from a wide range of family configurations.

For the last ten years, student board members have played a key role in shaping community life. In fact, it was students who proposed the idea for Tehillah Talks, the congregation’s podcast, which features conversations between Rabbi Shriner-Cahn and young people ages 13 to 21. The podcast is now heard around the world.

At a time when many congregations struggle to stay connected with teens after their Bar or Bat Mitzvah, Tehillah has designed pathways that meet students where they are. Young members take part in services, serve as teaching assistants for younger children, participate in community service efforts, and continue returning to the community while in high school and college.

“At Tehillah, our student board members really live the idea of l’dor v’dor, from one generation to the next,” says Rabbi Shriner-Cahn. “Their voices and leadership are not just welcomed, they are essential.”

Exploring Faith Through Science and Across Communities

Tehillah’s programming continues to grow in new and creative directions. In 2024 and 2025, the congregation launched Science and the Synagogue, a yearlong series examining Jewish thought alongside astrophysics, medicine, and environmental science, led by members working in those fields.

Tehillah also partners with the Riverdale Presbyterian Church for shared learning. Last year, members of both communities studied texts common to Jewish and Christian traditions, culminating in a joint visit to the Jewish Museum’s exhibition on the Book of Esther. This year, the partnership will explore how each community reads its sacred texts, building connection through curiosity and conversation.

The Heart of Friday Night

Friday night Shabbat services are held each week at the Riverdale Yonkers  Society for Ethical Culture (4450 Fieldston road, Riverdale) where Tehillah gathers and members of all ages, come together to welcome the shabbat through music, inspiration from our Rabbi, share stories, and stay long after services to enjoy our Friday night kiddush, talk, laugh, and reconnect.

“Everyone contributes in their own way,” says longtime member Adam Wiesen. “We’re not about a top-down approach. We build from the ground up, together.”

That collective spirit has sustained Tehillah for years, welcoming new families while supporting lifelong members through every stage of life.

“Our story is all about welcoming people wherever they are on the Jewish journey,” Schreiner says.

To learn more, visit Tehillah Synagogue online or stop by their worship location at the Riverdale Yonkers Ethical Culture Society (RYSEC) at 4450 Fieldston Road in the Bronx.