Temple Beth Tikvah was formed in 1987 by a handful of committed people and Rabbi Donald Tam, now our Rabbi Emeritus. The families that created Temple Beth Tikvah sought to shape a warm community where they could experience Reform Judaism with a traditional tone. Their vision continues to this day.

How We Worship

Tradition takes many forms. For example, we encourage the wearing of kippot (yarmulkes) in our facilities and a talit (prayer shawl) is worn as a matter of custom on Shabbat mornings and during High Holy Days and festivals. We seek to create a balance between the Reform movement’s liturgy and traditional elements of the service.

While a significant portion of our service is chanted and sung in Hebrew, we create a worship experience that includes contemporary Jewish melodies and classic chanting, English readings along with Hebrew – all in an effort to create a compelling prayer experience for our congregation.

Services

We conduct Shabbat services on Friday nights (typically beginning at 8 p.m.) and Saturday mornings (beginning at 10 a.m.). In addition, we occasionally hold special Friday night Shabbat services, including “Tot Shabbat” and “Family Shabbat” experiences. These special services typically start earlier than regular services. Our worship service schedule is posted monthly at www.bethtikvah.com.

On Shabbat morning during the religious school year, Junior Congregation is held apart from the main service. Grade school students participate in and learn about the Shabbat observance during a captivating service.

Of course, we bring together our whole community, from our youngest members to our more mature adults for High Holy Day services as well as observances of all major Jewish holidays throughout the year.