Our Affiliation
We are affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, the association of Conservative congregations in North America.
All about our move!
Frequently Asked Questions about the Sale and Move
Who bought our old building?
The Korean Presbyterian Church purchased our building.
Where did we go?
We are now at the David Posnack Jewish Community Center (1 mile east of our former location) for the next 1 to 2 years. (see directions here)
There is lots of excitement now that we have moved. Check out the We are Beth Ahm Israel! video here
Read what the Jewish Journal said about our move here
When was the move?
We moved on Wednesday, April 11th. The morning service on the 11th was at 9730 Stirling Road and our first evening service was at the JCC that night. Services will be held at the JCC from this point on. The Korean Church was kind enough to allow us to use the sanctuary after the closing date for the Bar Mitzvah of Jesse Klauber on the 27th and 28th of April along with a special havdallah service that evening. The photos of our moving day, the final havdallah service and the subsequent arrival at the JCC are available on our photo album and on our facebook page.
What are our long range plans?
There are several possibilities but nothing has been decided yet. Very soon you will be receiving a survey through which you will be able to voice your thoughts about what you would like to see happen. This is a great opportunity for you to help define the future of our Beth Ahm Israel community.
Can a synagogue like ours move successfully?
Much can be learned about this from others that have gone through it. You can read here about a shul in Silver Spring, Maryland that went through a successful move recently. Since learning of their story we have had dialogue with both their relocation vice president and their Rabbi. This synagogue is very similar to ours and it is encouraging to know after speaking with them that they feel we are on the right track. And still more evidence: we have been at the JCC for almost a year and you can see for yourself that we are still thriving.
Is our religious school merging with the JCC?
All of our programs have moved with us and are staying intact. This includes the Byrna Klur Religious School. Dropoff and pickup for Religious School is now at the early childhood entrance on the north side of the main circle of the JCC. Days and times will be the same that you are accustomed to.
Where are services held at the JCC?
In general Daily Minyan services are now taking place in the Holocaust Learning Center (Except Wednesdays). Weekly services are in the Lippman reception room (off of the lobby next to the Orlove Auditorium). When larger space is needed the Orlove Auditorium is used. We have a portable ark that is set up for us wherever and whenever we are having services. The weekly e-Blast newsletter contains specific times and locations for each of our services, and this information will also be available on our website: www.baisrael.com
What about Bar/Bat Mitzvahs?
The JCC has full facilities to handle the religious services, the Oneg and Kiddush, as well as hosting a party if desired. There is an on-site kosher caterer just like we’ve had in our current facility. We have several members who have had events there recently and were very happy with the outcome. You can find out about the caterer here
Will my membership dues be changing?
Our Membership and Budget committees took a good hard look at what dues structures could be offered for 2012-13 while still maintaining the balanced operating budget that your Board of Trustees has mandated. The net proceeds of the sale from our old property will be fully reserved to enable our future relocation while our daily operations in 2012-13 will be funded through membership dues, school tuition, and fundraising revenue. Membership dues structure was sent out in the membership renewal packets in June. You can see the options here.
How can I help?
We want your continued involvement in our religious services, programs, and activities as we explore our future. We also want your participation in shaping what that future looks like. Stay tuned for the latest news.
