Temple Am David is now Congregation Am David

It is only fitting that in the week preceding the reading of Parshat Shemoth (“These are the names…”) the Board of Temple Am David unanimously voted to change the name of the synagogue to Congregation Am David, effective immediately.  This followed a December congregational meeting where the popular vote also endorsed the change. 

As Rabbi Richard Perlman, spiritual leader, cantor and now executive director explained, the change emphasizes “the difference between a ‘temple’ (building or place) and a ‘congregation’ (a gathering of people, often for the purpose of worship, study and social connection).”  In light of the decision to sell the building, he emphasized that the focus of the congregation must now be on the aspect of a coherent community of people, not a building.  “Given that we are moving toward a downsize, to offer our members a more affordable membership model, this change has been made. We believe that we are a community, and a strong one, in need of strengthening our financial house.”

Temple Am David (in the 1980s) was formed from the merger of Temple Beth Am and Temple Beth David.  The original facility was expanded, and repairs and upgrades have been continual.  At its last meeting, the synagogue Board of Directors officially directed the congregation to hire Thomas Sweeney, of Sweeney Real Estate & Appraisal, to list the building for sale.  At the same time, the Board has been exploring options to relocate the Shabbat, weekday and larger services, including High Holy Day services and social events, as well as the Louis and Goldie Chester Religious School, to different venues around the area.

Says Perlman, “This move is on a temporary basis while we look for a new permanent home for our synagogue and school in the near future. “  Some possible facilities are currently being evaluated for the congregation’s use while talks regarding the sale of the building are being conducted.

Congregation Am David has been planning a gala weekend from May 15-17 to honor Alice Goldstein, who moved from her childhood home in Germany 75 years ago and has since lived a remarkable life in America.  Now, the weekend will also offer an opportunity to honor the synagogue building for its service to the congregational family, and a walk down memory lane to say an official farewell to the building.  The weekend festivities, which will be open to the community, will be capped off by a Cantors Perlman Brothers concert featuring Shireinu, Temple Sinai’s Jewish choral ensemble.

Rabbi Perlman observed, “This will be a weekend filled with “L’dor v’dor (Generation to generation) memories of the past, as well as reflection and a glimpse into the future.  We look forward to working with all members of our community as Klal Yisrael (The Whole of Israel), is what matters most to our beloved Congregation Am David.”

NAOMI GELLER LIPSKY is  a member of Congregation Am David.