About Us

Temple Beth Torah is a Conservative synagogue, dedicated to finding meaning in traditional Judaism for the modern, changing world.

A small congregation of about 250 families, we strive to know each other not just as fellow congregants, but as members of an extended family. Our Temple is the center of this extended family.

We are proud of how each member brings his or her own story to our diverse community—such as those who have a multi-generational history at our congregation and those new to the city or Temple Beth Torah, of all ages and backgrounds who are seeking a Jewish community – a place to call home.

TEMPLE BETH TORAH IS WARM, FRIENDLY, INCLUSIVE AND EGALITARIAN

TBT was started in 1960 when a number of families decided they wanted to fulfill their Jewish yearnings through a Conservative congregation. Since that time, TBT has developed a style and mode of conduct that is warm, friendly, inclusive, and egalitarian. The Congregation, Rabbi, and Cantor work harmoniously. Congregants are encouraged to participate in all aspects of the Temple's activities, with a special emphasis on educating ourselves about Judaism and developing our understanding and commitment.

By warm and friendly, we mean that the Congregation considers itself to be an extended family. We treat each other with respect, recognizing that we share common interests and goals. We want to create a personal relationship among our Congregants, as well as between them and our religious leadership. We recognize that approaching God and participating in religious services may be difficult, and that many of us may be unsure about what to do and what is expected of us. Realizing this, we try to create an atmosphere that helps our Congregants feel comfortable in the Sanctuary, as well as in the Social Hall and other TBT facilities and events. TBT's membership is small enough that no one need remain an anonymous name on a roster.

By inclusive, we mean that we invite your participation in all of our activities. TBT is not 'run' by a small group of individuals, but by its full membership. For example, TBT's Board of Trustees has more than 50 members. TBT's Shabbat services are attended by many Congregants, even when there is no Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebration. TBT's Kol Nidre Appeal has a participation rate of more than 50%. In addition, many Congregants attend our weekly Adult Education classes. We encourage your participation.

By egalitarian, we mean that women and men have the same rights and responsibilities. Both are counted in the minyan, may be given aliyot and other honors, and can read from the Torah and lead services.  And women as well as men play important roles in TBT's operations, serving as president, as well as in other offices.

LEARNING

Education is a very important aspect of being a Jew. It is a lifelong endeavor. TBT offers Congregants many educational opportunities, including adult education classes, personal discussions and instruction with the Rabbi, sermons, pamphlets, and TBT's mailings and newsletter.   Over the years, a significant number of adults have attended and participated in many of these offerings. In so doing, many Congregants have learned Hebrew and studied Jewish texts. Mmany Congregants have learned to chant the Haftarah and read from the Torah, including dozens of adult women who have celebrated their Bat Mitzvah with us, a privilege they had missed when they were younger.

Education for our children begins when they are in kindergarten and first grade. The first years are introductory, and our formal education program begins with a child's entrance into third grade. We require five years of formal education for a child to be eligible to celebrate Bar/Bat Mitzvah at TBT. 

TBT's goal is to foster an understanding of our heritage and values. We hope to achieve Jewish literacy, including the ability to read Hebrew, and familiarity with the Jewish calendar and holidays. We also want our children to be comfortable at synagogue services.