From humble beginnings Temple Ner Shalom stands tall. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of a community. A community forged in the shared faith and traditions of Judaism.
In 1970 a simple advertisement changed everything. Jacob and Joan Cohn placed an ad seeking Jewish families. They wanted to create a congregation in Prince William County. Seven families responded. This marked the start of the Prince William Jewish Congregation. It later became known as Ner Tamid or Eternal Light. Initially they met in each other’s homes. Jacob Cohn served as the first president.
Meanwhile on the other side of the county another group formed. The Jewish Congregation of Manassas held its first service in the Jackman’s home. They later became Bayis Shalom or House of Peace. Services were held at Bethel Lutheran Church. Rabbi David Schudrich traveled from Maryland. He led services and helped build the community. A donated Torah scroll and a handmade ark symbolized their growing faith.
By the mid-eighties two congregations realized a merger would benefit everyone. In 1985 Ner Tamid and Bayis Shalom united. They became Congregation Ner Shalom Light of Peace. Rabbi Samuel Volkman became the first rabbi of the new congregation. The combined congregation needed a central meeting place. A serendipitous phone call to Community Baptist Church resulted in a temporary home. The pastor’s wife responded with Praise the Lord.
By 1991 Ner Shalom purchased land on Spriggs Road. Construction began in 1993. The temple was dedicated in October 1994. Rabbi Jonathan Katz took the helm guiding the growing congregation. Ten years later Rabbi Jennifer Weiner continued the legacy.
Today Temple Ner Shalom thrives. It serves Jewish families in Prince William Stafford Loudon and Fairfax Counties. It also serves Manassas and Manassas Park. The temple is dedicated to preserving traditions. It strives to meet the spiritual cultural educational and social needs of the community. It embraces diversity ensuring everyone feels welcome. It’s a beacon of light a vibrant community of faith a true house of peace.