From humble beginnings Valley Beth Israel stands tall. It wasn’t always a grand synagogue. It began in 1948 as the Sun Valley Jewish Community Center. A small group met in a recreational hall. They held services in a Salvation Army Hall. This was the start of Valley Beth Israel.
As the Jewish community grew so did the need for a synagogue. In 1952 groundbreaking began for the current location. High Holiday services were held that year in a partially finished building. Members helped finish the construction. The land itself was a generous gift from the Ratner and Forsch families. They were early members of the congregation.
The name changed in 1957 to Valley Beth Israel. For years it was one of the largest synagogues in the East Valley. Times changed. Many Jewish families moved to the West Valley. This led to a decline in membership. New clergy arrived in 1999. They brought new energy to Valley Beth Israel. Services were modernized. Music was added. New prayer books were purchased. Excitement returned to the synagogue.
Today Valley Beth Israel thrives once again. It is a growing congregation. It remains true to its traditions. It offers programs that appeal to both modern and traditional preferences. Valley Beth Israel is a vibrant center of Jewish life in the East Valley. It welcomes all Jews interfaith couples and members of the LGBT community. A warm and inclusive space for all. This is Valley Beth Israel.