Did you know that Congregation Ner Tamid started with just 30 families in 1974? They yearned to establish a Reform synagogue in Las Vegas. At first these families gathered in homes, churches and even at the University of Las Vegas.
Congregation Ner Tamid is the second oldest Jewish synagogue in the Las Vegas Valley. It stands as the largest Reform congregation in Nevada. Its growth mirrors the expansion of the Jewish community itself.
Fast forward to the early 1980s. Land was acquired on Emerson Avenue. A social hall, classrooms and a sanctuary were erected. Casino owner Moe Dalitz contributed $500000 for construction of Ner Tamid’s first permanent synagogue. There was just one condition. The congregation had to match his donation. The congregation met Dalitz’s pledge within ten weeks.
The congregation thrived. It quickly outgrew its original building. In 2001 a major capital campaign began. The goal was to finance the purchase of land. They also wanted to construct a synagogue and campus appropriate for the growing congregation’s needs. Jon Sparer was an architect who shaped much of Las Vegas’ skyline. He was hired to design the new facility.
In February 2007 Congregation Ner Tamid dedicated its new home. It is the current campus and synagogue in Henderson. This Las Vegas suburb is now home to a vibrant Jewish community. One thousand people attended the Service of Dedication. The service began with a Torah Walk. The torahs were transported from their temporary location. They went from King David Memorial Chapel to the new synagogue.
Rabbi Sanford Akselrad has led Congregation Ner Tamid since 1988. During his tenure, the synagogue grew from approximately 60 to over 600 families. He has served on many community boards. He is a founding member of the Clark County Board of Rabbis.
Cantor Jessica Hutchings joined Congregation Ner Tamid in 2014. She is an award-winning educator. She conveys the beauty of Jewish music to children and adults.
Congregation Ner Tamid is more than just a synagogue. It’s a hub of activity. It offers youth and adult education. They also have a Men’s Club and Sisterhood. The congregation provides over 200 programs and activities each year.
Ner Tamid partners with Nevadans for the Common Good. They also work with the Interfaith Council of Southern Nevada and the Anti-Defamation League.
In 2005, Ner Tamid broke ground on a new site in Henderson. It was named the Greenspun Campus for Jewish Life, Learning, and Spiritual Renewal.
Today Congregation Ner Tamid remains the largest Reform congregation in Nevada. It has over 650 family unit members. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of its founders. It shows the power of community.