Meet Our Clergy and Staff
Rabbi Mona Alfi
She/Her/Hers
Rabbi Mona Alfi is fueled by a passion for tikkun olam (repairing the world) and a vision for reaching out to Sacramento’s diverse Jewish community. As the spiritual leader of B’nai Israel, Rabbi Alfi hopes to foster a caring community that is engaged both in the life of the synagogue and in our broader society ... (LEARN MORE)
Email Rabbi Alfi
Cantor Alexandra Kurland
She/Her/Hers
Cantor Alexandra Kurland is thrilled to make Congregation B’nai Israel and Sacramento her new home! She brings with her a passion for Jewish life, lifting up prayer in song, cultivating connection, and finding meaning in our lives through ancient tradition.
Cantor Kurland was ordained by Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR) in May 2020. She is also a proud graduate of Wellesley College, where she earned honors in her major of Music, as well as a minor in Italian Studies. (LEARN MORE)
Chime Costello
Executive Director
She/Her/Hers
Since joining Congregation B’nai Israel, Chime Costello has been committed to deepening community engagement and strengthening connections. She balances tradition with modern needs to create a space where all members feel seen, valued, and heard. As Executive Director, she leads development and stewardship efforts, supports long-term strategic planning, and helps cultivate a community rooted in connection, justice, and Jewish life.
Chime holds a degree in Organizational Leadership from Arizona State University, graduating summa cum laude. Her academic background reflects her holistic approach to leadership, centered on relationship-building, purpose-driven advocacy, and the collective strength of community. With a deep understanding of synagogue operations and community dynamics, Chime collaborates closely with clergy, staff, and lay leaders to foster meaningful relationships at every level of involvement.
Lauren Silva
Director of Lifelong Jewish Learning
She/Her/Hers
Lauren Silva has always called Congregation B’nai Israel and Sacramento home, from the first days of K’tonton, through Confirmation, and today. She studied Economics and Judaic Studies at The University of Michigan, where she was involved with Michigan Hillel and was inspired to become a Jewish professional. (LEARN MORE)
Photo: Joan Cusick Photography
Cantor Emerita Julie Steinberg
She/Her/Hers
Cantor Emerita Julie Steinberg has been involved at Congregation B’nai Israel for 30 years. As a young woman, she studied music at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and at Indiana University. She also holds a Masters degree in Social Work ... (LEARN MORE)
