Hope fills the air around Temple Beth Tikvah. It is more than just a name. It is a promise kept since its founding in 1987. A handful of families sought a traditional yet inspiring Reform Judaism worship. Hassia Levin had a vision. She recruited Arthur Blank, co-founder of The Home Depot. They encouraged Rabbi Donald Tam to return to Atlanta. The trip succeeded. Rabbi Tam became the congregation’s first rabbi.
Rabbi Tam conducted the first Shabbat service on August 7 1987. The first Bar Mitzvah followed the next morning. Thus began Temple Beth Tikvah’s life cycle. It lived up to its name as a “House of Hope.”
In the early days Temple Beth Tikvah met in different homes. They later established offices at St. David’s Episcopal Church. The two congregations formed a strong bond. A rose window graces St. David’s sanctuary. It depicts the 12 Tribes of Israel. Temple Beth Tikvah gifted it as thanks for the shared time.
Rabbi Tam believed that building the sanctuary first was crucial. The school and social hall would follow. His conviction proved correct. Temple Beth Tikvah grew from a small group to a congregation of 400 families. Children’s laughter filled the halls during the week. The softer sounds of worship filled the sanctuary each Shabbat.
Rabbi Tam retired in 2005. He became Rabbi Emeritus. Rabbi Fred Greene led Temple Beth Tikvah from 2006 to 2015. Rabbi Alexandria Shuval-Weiner now leads the congregation. She brings optimism and vision. It echoes the spirit of 37 years ago. The “House of Hope” continues to thrive. Temple Beth Tikvah’s roots reach into the future.
Temple Beth Tikvah offers many groups. BTC Jr serves families with young children. The Book Club discusses books with Jewish connections. The Comfort Circle offers grief support. The Men’s Club fosters Jewish activities. Music groups include choirs and instrumentalists. The Sisterhood creates a vibrant community. The Yad Squad ensures members can read or chant Torah. Youth groups provide fun and service. Many youths attend OSRUI Summer Camp.
Currently Rabbi Marcy Greene is serving as an interim Rabbi. Rabbi Greene brings joy to Shabbat services. She also founded L’Chaim Center. Its mission is to find joy despite adversity. It helps to live a purposeful life.
Temple Beth Tikvah continues to be a beacon of hope. It offers community and spiritual growth to all who enter.