Our History

Temple Beth Shalom was formed in the year 2000 by a small group of people looking to celebrate their Reform tradition in an open and welcoming atmosphere on the Dell Jewish Community Campus. Today we have grown to over 200 families who practice their faith in the warmth of a congregation that cares about worship, education and each other.

In our third year, we were thrilled to welcome Rabbi Alan Freedman, his wife Lori and their three daughters to our community. Pastoral and spiritual counselling are among Rabbi Freedman's gifts to our growing membership. In addition, Rabbi Freedman has expanded our regular Torah study and Jewish practice, culture and holiday education opportunities.

A photo from our early days. How we've grown!

Religious education for our children is an important part of Temple Beth Shalom. We believe our children should be cherished and allowed to flourish in a Jewish environment. Our religious school lead by professional educators gives individual attention to each child and provides a well-rounded education including Hebrew, Jewish history and Bar and Bat Mitzvah preparation. From the strong support of our Temple membership and the Mitzvah Project of our Temple's first Bar Mitzvah, we have a substantial library of Jewish books for our children to enjoy.

At Temple Beth Shalom, Tikkun Olam, the ethical bettering of the world, is our obligation as Jews. Our social action committee initiated the community-wide "Undercover Project" to provide new undergarments for the residents of the Austin Resource Center for the Homeless. We have collected funds and canned goods for the Capital Area Food Bank, and served the families of critically ill children at the Ronald McDonald House.

Our congregants have lead services and contributed new ideas that become a part of our unique Temple Beth Shalom traditions. Members participate in lay-lead classes including Hebrew and our Temple Beth Shalom Book Club.

Temple Beth Shalom is proud to be a partner on the Dell Jewish Community Campus. We are committed to supporting all activities offered by the other DJCC partners. Our mission "to promote worship, spirituality, lifelong education and personal growth and to nurture and support life-cycle events in a collaborative setting" affirms our place in the center of Jewish Austin.

We welcome all inquiries and invite you to visit our services at any time. Shalom, y'all.