Dreamers, planners, builders. These words echo through the history of Temple Beth Hillel. This Reform community has been a pillar in Valley Village since 1946. Temple Beth Hillel enhances the spiritual cultural and intellectual life for each of its members.
In the fall of 1946 an ad appeared in the Valley Times. It sought individuals interested in starting a Reform congregation in the Valley. Thirteen families responded. They gathered in the Hillisons’ home. With guidance from Rabbi Alfred Wolf Temple Beth Hillel was born. It was named after the rabbinic sage Hillel.
The charter was signed on December 11 1946. The congregation was officially known as Congregation Beth Hillel of San Fernando Valley. The first Friday Shabbat service took place on December 20 1946. It was held in St. Michael’s Church in North Hollywood. Twenty-seven families attended.
By spring 1947 the congregation had grown to 40 families. The UAHC subsidized a full-time rabbi’s salary. Rabbi Joseph Gumbiner became their first spiritual leader. Services occurred in various locations. Religious school High Holy Day services and celebrations were at the McKinley Home for Boys. This is now the location of Westfield Fashion Square.
In 1948 the congregation bought land and a house at 12326 Riverside Drive. They purchased properties east and west of the house later. The little house was transformed into a sanctuary and classrooms. By fall the house was ready. The library was placed on kitchen cupboard shelves. The kitchen served as the Temple office the rabbi’s office and a kitchen.
In 1950 members pledged money. With help from Bank of America the first building was dedicated. It was a school building with seven classrooms.
Rabbi Gumbiner left in the spring of 1949. He became the Director of Hillel at Yale University. That summer Rabbi Morton A Bauman became their spiritual leader. He was then the rabbi of Temple Israel of Hollywood.
By 1951 a cooperative nursery school was established. There was a cantor adult and children’s choirs. The religious school was overflowing. Couples and singles groups formed. There were youth programs. Fundraising was very important.
By 1952 Temple Beth Hillel celebrated its fifth anniversary. It had grown to over 450 families. There were over 500 children in religious school. Architect Matthew La Poda was hired. He drew up plans for a new building. The plans were estimated at $450000. Only $70000 had been pledged.
In 1953 every member had to commit to a $750 building pledge. The membership overwhelmingly passed this program. Sacrifice was needed to ensure Temple Beth Hillel’s viability.
On March 20 1955 ground was broken for the main building. All who paid $5 for a “gold brick” keychain could turn a shovel of dirt. Almost 1000 adults children and community dignitaries participated. A concrete strike delayed work. Funds were insufficient to furnish the new home. The Living Gifts and Memorials Fund was established.
On August 31 1956 the new sanctuary and building were dedicated. Rabbi Wolf gave the dedication sermon. It was titled “Dreamers Planners and Builders.” Rabbi Bauman officiated. The dedication completed a five-year half-million-dollar program.
Temple Beth Hillel continues to evolve embracing tradition while honoring Reform Judaism’s core values. It stands as a testament to community dedication and a bright future.