Pause for a moment and consider the dedication it takes to build a community. Congregation Har Shalom began with families holding services in living rooms. It was the 1960s and Potomac was booming. These families formed the Seven Locks Jewish Community in 1964. They sought connection and tradition.
Congregation Har Shalom stands as a testament to their vision. The congregation affiliated with the United Synagogue for Conservative Judaism. Growth followed. In 1967, Rabbi Morris Gordon became a part-time advisor. A year later, Cantor Cal Chizever arrived. His music energized the community. He eventually became the congregation’s first full-time cantor.
In 1971, the Seven Locks Jewish Community became Congregation Har Shalom. Then, in 1974, Rabbi Leonard Cahan began his tenure. His leadership spurred rapid growth. Many new programs and educational initiatives emerged. Rabbi Cahan also edited “Siddur Sim Shalom for Shabbat and Holidays”. This prayer book became a labor of love. After Rabbi Cahan’s passing in 2018, the congregation dedicated “The Rabbi Leonard Cahan Sanctuary” to honor him.
Other leaders have shaped Congregation Har Shalom. Rabbis Moshe Levin and H. David Rose contributed to the congregation. Cantor Arthur Shragg also served with distinction. Hazzan Henrique Ozur Bass served as cantor from 1996 to 2024. In July 2024, Max Silverstone became Cantor of Har Shalom.
Rabbi Adam J. Raskin became the spiritual leader in 2011. He ushered in an era of renewal. To mark Congregation Har Shalom’s 50th anniversary in 2014, Rabbi Raskin led a capital campaign. This campaign refurbished the synagogue building. The result is an exquisite sacred space recognized for its architectural design and accessibility.
In July 2022, Rabbi Rachel Simmons joined as associate rabbi. She brought talent and compassion to her work. Today, Congregation Har Shalom welcomes everyone. It embraces diversity without regard to religious observance or background. Political views, gender, sexuality, age, race, or disability are not factors. Everyone belongs at Congregation Har Shalom. A team of professionals and lay leaders work together. They make Congregation Har Shalom an exciting center of Jewish life, learning, and celebration. The current clergy includes Senior Rabbi Adam J. Raskin, Associate Rabbi Rachel A. Simmons and Cantor Max H. Silverstone.