Our History
Temple Shirat Shalom was founded in March 2011, in Allentown, PA. It was developed by congregants who were looking for a warm, caring and inviting reform Jewish congregation, focused on our families, our friends and our community. By July 2011, we were able to accomplish the following:
- First services were held in the homes of congregants
- Filed articles of incorporation
- Filed for 501(c)3 tax exempt status
- Developed bylaws
- Developed committee structure
- Formed an initial working group, transitioned into Board of Trustees structure
- Hired clergy
- Identified and contracted for location for Shabbat worship services
- Identified and contracted for location for religious school
- Identified and contracted for location for High Holy Days services
Our Mission
To provide all Lehigh Valley Jews looking to explore their Judaism with a safe, comforting and friendly place to pray, learn and socialize with each other while growing a strong Reform community. We will do this by:
- Always offering a welcoming experience to every member – current or new
- Treating everyone with respect and kindness
- Providing opportunities to participate in services and programs
- Offering life-long learning opportunities for all ages from child to adult
- Providing an open atmosphere of decision making where everyone has a vote
- Blending the traditional with the newest Reform thinking
Our Vision
Temple Shirat Shalom will be the synagogue for both Reform and unaffiliated Jews, whether by birth or by choice, that is recognized for being warm, inviting, and open to all perspectives of the Jewish faith.