Congregation Etz Hayim

Can you feel the echoes of generations past? Right here at Congregation Etz Hayim, those echoes whisper stories of resilience, growth, and a vibrant Jewish community in Arlington. Congregation Etz Hayim has been a cornerstone of Jewish life in Arlington since its humble beginnings in 1940. Originally named Ohev Shalom Congregation, the community first gathered in the Jones Building on Wilson Boulevard in Clarendon for High Holy Day services. Imagine those early days, a small group of newcomers seeking connection and a place to practice their faith. Congregation Etz Hayim wasn’t always housed in this building. In 1947, the congregation broke ground on a single-floor structure on Arlington Boulevard, laying the foundation for what we see today. The synagogue expanded between 1954 and 1955, a testament to the burgeoning Jewish community in the area. Congregation Etz Hayim holds the distinction of being the only synagogue in Arlington County until the year 2000 and remains the sole Conservative synagogue in the county to this day. The congregation adopted its current name, Congregation Etz Hayim, in the spring of 2002. Over the years, Congregation Etz Hayim has seen a succession of spiritual leaders who have guided the community. From Rabbi Noah Golinkin, who led the congregation from 1950 to 1965, to Rabbi Marvin Bash, who served for an impressive 36 years, each leader has left their mark. Rabbi Lia Bass took the helm in 2001, followed by Rav Natan Freller in 2020. Today, the congregation thrives, offering a wide range of programs, from monthly potlucks and sci-fi book groups to Tot Shabbat and a caregiver support group. The annual Casino Night and end-of-summer picnic are testaments to the vibrant community life here at Congregation Etz Hayim. As you stand before Congregation Etz Hayim, remember the journey of this community, from a small gathering in a rented space to the thriving institution it is today. It’s a story of faith, community, and the enduring strength of tradition.