Introduction | History | Executive Director's Message | President's Message | Location

History

Temple Beth Sholom (TBS) is a Conservative Synagogue, a member of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism and follows traditional Jewish practices in a modern setting.

TBS was founded over fifty years ago as Jews moved from Camden eastward. Our first permanent location was in Haddon Heights. There, we grew into a synagogue of over 600 families with a strong commitment to Jewish education and practices.

In 1989, we moved to our present location in Cherry Hill, taking with us our traditions and some of the physical reminders of our old building and growing to a congregation of approximately 1,000 families. On a glorious expanse of seven acres, at Kresson and Cropwell Roads, Temple Beth Sholom brings the feeling of Jerusalem home. The Sanctuary, with its balcony and adjoining social hall, comfortably seats up to 2000 people. The school wing houses 19 classrooms and offices with a playground outside that channels the creativity of the most energetic youngster. There are both dairy and meat kitchens, a youth lounge, bride's room and many other well-planned areas for religious, cultural and social use. In 2002, Temple Beth Sholom proudly dedicated its new Green Center for Jewish Learning, an expansion of 13,000 square feet, including a state-of-the-art Multimedia Resource Center, high school classrooms and a lounge where our teenagers can relax in a Jewish environment.

TBS offers a full range of activities for members, including a Sisterhood, Men’s Club, Young Members Group, Social Action Committee, Senior Chaverim and many other committees. A wide variety of adult education courses are offered, and TBS participates in the South Jersey Academy of Jewish Learning. Non-members are always welcome to join an adult education class or to attend services. Friday evening services are at 6:15 pm, and Shabbat morning services are at 9:30 am. Shabbat Mincha/Maariv takes place at sundown. Morning minyan is at 7:00 am on weekdays and at 8:15 am on Sunday and secular holidays. Afternoon and evening minyan is at 8:00 pm, Sunday through Thursday.

Temple Beth Sholom offers a comprehensive, award winning religious school program. The United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism has designated our new format as a Framework of Excellence – one of only three schools to be recognized in the country in 2002. Our religious school offers a program designed to meet the needs of today’s family. Our two-day per week religious school maintains a nationally recognized Special Needs Education Program, as well as a Multimedia Resource Center in a new Hebrew High School wing. The religious school participates in the Gift of Israel program, and a Confirmation Class Israel Experience is part of our curriculum. Ms. Dina Eliezer serves as Educational Director.

Our Preschool offers families with young children a variety of early childhood education opportunities, including classes for two to five year olds, kindergarten, transitional kindergarten, early and late care and “Mommy and Me” programs which are available to both members and non-members. Weekly Shabbat Services are part of the curriculum for all classes. A new indoor Play Area and Shabbat Enrichment Space provide for innovative educational experiences. Summer camp is available for children between the ages of two and 5. Ms. Ellen Berju is the Preschool Director.

In addition to formal classroom education, Temple Beth Sholom offers a wide variety of interactive programs for parents and children of all ages. Families participate in holiday celebrations, group learning programs, Shabbat dinners and synagogue-wide festivals. Ms. Jennifer Stofman is the Program Director.

Several youth services are offered on Shabbat mornings, including Shabbat Enrichment for children ages two to seven, T’fillat Yeladim (Junior Congregation) for ages eight to ten, and Knesset Noar for ages eleven and twelve. Babysitting is provided on Shabbat and holidays. Special family services for members and non-members are scheduled throughout the year.

Our Chaverim, Kadima and USY youth groups are outstanding. We have received numerous regional awards for programs, especially Social Action.

We also have expanded preschool classrooms for extended day options. The Friedman Social Hall has a stage for performances and there is ample space for large banquets. The facilities are available for weddings, B’Nai Mitzvah and other simhas. Kashrut is observed.
And while the physical plant is impressive, it's what you'll find inside that most stirs the heart ... the real cornerstone of Temple Beth Sholom: its congregation. A melting pot of professionals, businessmen, artists and craftsmen, of new families and senior members, the underlying bond is still the warmth, caring and understanding each brings inside. Whether it's celebrating a mitzvah or being supportive at a time of sorrow, Temple Beth Sholom emerges as more than a great place of worship. It is our religious home, and the congregation is our family.

Mr. Eric Jacobs is the Executive Director.