The Jewish community of Topeka dates back to 1868, not long after the founding of the city. Of the many Jewish organizations and institutions in Topeka's history, the most important has been the synagogue. Two congregations founded in 1905 and 1915 joined together to build Temple Beth Sholom, Topeka's first synagogue, in 1920. In 1928, the synagogue became Reform, affiliating in 1935 with the Union of American Hebrew Congregations. Today, Temple Beth Sholom, with 125 families, is the center of Jewish life in Topeka. The Temple enjoys rabbinic leadership ( Rabbi Debbie Stiel ) and publishes a monthly bulletin.
Temple Beth Sholom is in the mainstream of Reform Judaism and is warm to Jewish tradition. Individuals from a broad range of Jewish backgrounds have found a place for themselves in our congregation. Through worship, we observe religious holidays and attempt to create ceremonies which highlight contributions to Jewish life, mark personal milestones, and bring members closer together. We join in Sabbath worship on Friday evenings at 7:30 p.m.
Temple Beth Sholom is sponsoring a series of forums. We would like your input, suggestions and ideas for strategies to deal with these challenging economic times, our budget shortfall and revenue generating ideas. All conversations will be held at Temple Beth Sholom.
Please join us for any or all of these forums. We have tried to provide a variety of times and facilitators.
Forum 1: Friday, June 12, 6:45 pm, led by Len Richter. Friday night services to follow.
Forum 2: Saturday, June 13, 10:00 am led by Darcella Goodman. Shabbat Shiur to follow.
Forum 3: Sunday, June 28, 2:00 pm led by Lorne Ruby.
Your input matters!
Temple Beth Sholom Board of Directors
Our Mission Statement
The purpose of this Congregation shall be to worship God in accordance with the Faith of Judaism; to cultivate a love and understanding of the Jewish heritage through study; to stimulate fellowship in the Jewish community and the community at large; to strengthen the bond of loyalty with the Jewish people everywhere; and to promote the principles of righteousness in the world. To further those purposes the Congregation will be a member of the Union for Reform Judaism.
Your Temple Beth Sholom Board of Directors
Congratulations to the Officers and Board of Directors elected at the 2009 annual meeting:
Torah Study, the 2nd Saturday of the month. Please bring a Torah Commentary if you own one. All adults and young adults are welcome to join to discuss and explore the teachings of the Torah.
