“Large Enough to Serve You, Small Enough to Know You.” That’s the motto Congregation Beth Torah lives by.
Congregation Beth Torah has been a cornerstone of the North Dallas community since 1974. It stands as an egalitarian, participatory, and inclusive Conservative synagogue.
But what makes Congregation Beth Torah so special? It embraces diversity. It welcomes everyone into its family, regardless of age, ethnicity, experience, sexual orientation, or gender identification. Here, differences are seen as bridges, not barriers. This enriches the community and fosters understanding among people from varied backgrounds. They all come together on a common Jewish journey.
This journey at Congregation Beth Torah encompasses religious and spiritual inspiration. It includes life-cycle needs and education for both youth and adults. The community has devotion and connection to Israel. They celebrate good times and comfort each other in bad times.
Originally, Congregation Beth Torah began in a living room. In June 1988, a small group gathered for Erev Shabbat worship at Dr. David and Cheryl Harris’ home. Just a month later, over one hundred people attended the first official worship at the temporary Jewish Community Center.
The congregation grew quickly. By September 1988, it had reached one hundred member families. Only three months after the first meeting, 600 Jews participated in Kol Nidre worship. Carol Sader exclaimed, “Poof, instant congregation!”
Eight years later, in November 1996, Congregation Beth Torah dedicated its first permanent home. The synagogue had a magnificent sanctuary, classrooms, and office space. At that time, the congregation had over 450 family members.
Congregation Beth Torah has been led by outstanding presidents. These include Hal Sader, Cheryl Harris, and Larry Myer. Currently, Miccole Bowen and Zachary Zwibelman hold the office.
The congregation has a strong music program. It also has an innovative education program and an outstanding social justice program. These initiatives include partnerships with local organizations. Congregation Beth Torah hosts regular blood drives, participates in Harvester’s Back Snack program, and works with Tikkun-KC to renovate houses for low-income families.
Today, Congregation Beth Torah celebrates over 30 years of community. It honors its past while building for the future. It remains a welcoming home for all.