Dedicated to community Temple B’nai Shalom stands as a beacon of Reform Judaism in Northern Virginia. Temple B’nai Shalom is more than just a building. It is a vibrant hub for spiritual social and educational experiences. Founded in 1986 Temple B’nai Shalom began with just three families. But Temple B’nai Shalom quickly blossomed into a congregation of over 450 families.
The story of Temple B’nai Shalom is one of growth and commitment. In the fall of 1995 Temple B’nai Shalom opened its permanent building. The building features a sunlit sanctuary a social hall and classrooms for religious education. Temple B’nai Shalom emphasizes social action. It focuses on helping the needy and Tikkun Olam. Tikkun Olam is the concept of repairing the world. Temple B’nai Shalom encourages Torah study for adults and children.
Temple B’nai Shalom fosters a welcoming environment for all. Young and old singles partnered married divorced and people with special needs find a home here. Temple B’nai Shalom embraces diversity. The temple welcomes Jewish members and others who share a commitment to Reform Judaism.
Temple B’nai Shalom is affiliated with the Union for Reform Judaism. The Union is a national organization of Reform congregations in the United States and Canada. Reform Judaism promotes personal religious growth social justice and the continuity of Judaism. Temple B’nai Shalom embodies these values.
But there is also a previous Temple B’nai Sholom. This Temple B’nai Sholom was established much earlier. In 1948 a group of Jewish families from Essex Middle River and Dundalk formed a Reform congregation. They desired a place where their children could be raised Jewish in a non-Jewish community. The original Temple B’nai Sholom met in various locations. These locations included community centers and rented spaces. In 1951 Temple B’nai Sholom bought a brick house on Homburg Avenue in Essex. This served as their location until 1968.
Notable figures led the original Temple B’nai Sholom. Dr. Mordecai I. Soloff was the first rabbi. Dr. Samuel Glasner succeeded him. Student rabbis from Hebrew Union College also served the congregation. Mr. Victor Kandel led services from 1967 to 1982. The congregation disbanded in 1982.
Temple B’nai Sholom’s records are preserved at the Jewish Museum of Maryland. These papers document the congregation’s history. They include constitutions minutes reports and correspondence. These records offer insights into the temple’s beginnings its activities and its eventual disbandment.
Temple B’nai Shalom in Fairfax Station carries on the spirit of community. It offers support groups for various needs. These include a Mother’s Support Group. A grief support group meets before High Holy Days. There is also a support group for children of Holocaust survivors. The Bereavement Committee provides compassionate assistance to congregants. The College Committee sends care packages to students. Temple B’nai Shalom is more than a temple. It is a family. A place to connect to learn and to make a difference in the world.