Congregation Beth El in Norwalk has won the 2017 Solomon Schechter Award in the Recognition of Excellence-Israel category, it was announced recently by the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ). Beth El was recognized for its program “Chanting Our Way to Israel.”

The Solomon Schechter Awards are designed “to recognize initiatives that shape an authentic and dynamic experience of Conservative Judaism.” This year, Congregation Ohev Shalom of Wallingford, Pennsylvania was distinguished at the highest level for innovation and impact. Beth El was among 10 others that were recognized for excellence in one of five categories.

More than 185 programs were submitted for consideration, and a panel of 15 judges carefully reviewed the entries to select the winners. All of the congregations recognized will present their award-winning initiatives at the 2017 USCJ convention, Dec. 1-5 in Atlanta, Georgia.