For over 70 years, the Judaica shop run by B’nai Israel Congregation’s sisterhood has provided beloved gifts such as unique tallitot, menorahs and more for people across the DMV.
“We’ve had people coming from the mountains in Maryland … They come from Virginia. They come from all over,” said Lisa Isenberg, B’nai Israel sisterhood co-president, who has been helping to manage the shop for eight years. “We’re very lucky, and we feel that we’re doing something for the Jewish community.”
The shop isn’t just any Judaica shop. Unlike smaller synagogue gift corners, it’s more than a couple of shelves and a window.
“People have been coming [to the shop] because they want to see the shop, and they can’t get over how big it is,” Isenberg added. “I think that’s another reason why people really like it.”
Its reach and warmth have earned the shop ongoing recognition. It also won for Best Judaica Shop in 2019, 2020 and 2022.
“It’s nice that we have a reputation of quality and kindness; my volunteers are very friendly — we all volunteer,” Isenberg said. “It’s something that we all love to do. It’s like a happy place … you come here and it’s happy.”
For Isenberg, the shop represents far more than a workplace. “It’s like my second home,” said Isenberg. “This, to me, is important. I mean, people come from all over and they thank me, and they tell me how beautiful the shop is.”
