FAQs

Our Worship Community

How many families belong to Temple Beth Shalom?

As of May 2024, there are 365 families in our congregation.

Is Temple Beth Shalom a Reform, Conservative, or Orthodox synagogue?

We are a Reform congregation that is a member of the Union for Reform Judaism.

When are services?

For an up to date calendar of services please see the Temple Beth Shalom Calendar.

Is there service for very young children, a Tot Shabbat?

Yes, our Tot Shabbat service, geared to the very young members up to 5 years old begins at 5:30pm and held approximately once a month from October – May. This is typically prior to the congregation dinner and family service.  Please check temple calendar for specific dates and any changes to the time.

How do I register for a Shabbat Family Dinner?

You can register online.  The temple website will be updated with a link to register prior to each service. If you have any trouble registering, please call the temple office at 410-757-0552. Pre-payment is required.

What is appropriate dress for services?

We do not have a formal dress code, however, we request that you recognize the sanctity of our sacred space and wear clothing that demonstrates that respect. Kipot (head covering) and tallit(prayer shawl) are not required but are available if desired.

Is Temple Beth Shalom kosher?

Our policy reflects a blend of the varied traditions within the Reform movement. We are kosher-style. In simplified terms, this means that there is no pork or shellfish at any time within our building. In addition, dairy and meat are not mixed on the same dish at temple events.

Our Educational Community

How many students are in the Religious School?

There are over 100 students in our religious school that goes from kindergarten to 10th grade.

When must my child enroll in Religious School in order to become a Bar or Bat Mitzvah at Temple Beth Shalom?

Fourth Grade is when our curriculum begins to focus heavily on the knowledge needed to become a Bar or Bat Mitzvah. There may be exceptions on a case by case basis, but Hebrew proficiency is essential. Extra make-up tutoring may be necessary.

When do we get our preparation materials?

Materials are presented to the families about nine months prior to the ceremony.

Who are the tutors?

Temple Beth Shalom currently has excellent tutors who have inspired students for many years.

What is the Bar/Bat Mitzvah fee?

The complete fee which covers all of the materials and 20 half-hour tutoring sessions is $1,000.

Is there a fee for the rabbi and cantor?

While there are no set fees, it is often appropriate to make a contribution to the rabbi’s discretionary fund after the ceremony.

Financial Commitment of Joining our Community

What does it cost to join Temple Beth Shalom?

Our membership rates are based on a sliding scale. The dues support the facility and administrative costs. Anyone for whom the cost of joining a synagogue is prohibitive, we encourage to have a private conversation with a Financial Officer of our Temple Beth Shalom board.

Is there a Mortgage Reduction Assessment or Building Fund Fee?

Not for the first year of membership. After that, we have a New Member Assessment of $2,000 payable over a five-year period.

Donations and Financial Commitments

Do you accept credit cards?

Yes. We accept credit cards: American Express, Visa, Mastercard, and Discover.

To whom should I make my check payable?

Temple Beth Shalom

I have a question about my bill. Who should I speak to?

You should contact the temple office at 410-757-0552 and ask for the temple bookkeeper.