Our History

Created in 1971 by a group of Capital Region Reform Jews, B’nai Sholom was conceived from the beginning as a small and responsive Reform congregation. Those who first met in the United Fourth Presbyterian Church (made available through the kindness of Reverend Bruce Miller and his congregation) – were dedicated to making a place of welcome for Jews who appreciated tradition, but were seeking a modern, more democratic interpretation. They honored openness and warmth, scholarship, lifelong learning.

In 1979, the congregation was ready for its own quarters, moving to the current home on Whitehall Road. Following the tenures of Rabbis Alvin Roth, Michael Kramer, and Harry Rothstein, Rabbi Donald P. Cashman became our spiritual leader in 1985 and led the congregation for 35 years before retiring in 2020. Rabbi Katz was chosen in 2020 to serve as Interim rabbi while the congregation seeks its new permanent rabbi. On July 1, 2021, we welcomed Rabbi Danielle Weisbrot as our new settled rabbi.

B’nai Sholom has responded to changes in the Reform movement while remaining firmly rooted in the deepest principles of Judaism. Every service that takes place in the Sanctuary reminds us that we are the current adherents of a strong and sustaining tradition in a place of accessibility and friendship that is our true spiritual home.

Founders of B’nai Sholom