[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 21 (Wednesday, March 1, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E208]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING BRITH SHALOM

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. KEN BENTSEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 1, 2000

  Mr. BENTSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Congregation Brith Shalom, 
located in the 25th district of Houston, Texas, on the occasion of 
their 45th anniversary. The Brith Shalom family has been a pillar of 
the community, effectively addressing the spiritual needs of its 
members for four and a half decades.
  Brith Shalom's humble beginnings trace back to a rented apartment 
house at 2203 Bellfontaine in February of 1955. The congregation 
eventually bought a building at 4610 Bellaire Boulevard where they 
involved the entire congregation in making it the beautiful synagogue 
it is today. Architectural highlights include stained-glass windows 
which tell the story of the 12 tribes of Israel and the inclusion of 
Jerusalem stone in the sanctuary.
  Brith Shalom's endurance in addressing the needs of its community 
deserves respect and admiration. With special emphasis on family and 
children, the congregation strives to increase Jewish identification 
and commitment. Brith Shalom embraces the concept that healthy 
spiritual development is necessary for children to grow into happy, 
whole adults. The congregation's belief in reinforcing a strong Jewish 
background gives Brith Shalom's youths a strong foundation and a clear 
sense of community, scholarship and religious identity throughout their 
lives.
  Throughout Brith Shalom's history, the congregation's rabbis have 
initiated Judiac studies and social-action programs. Sisterhood and 
Men's Club participants have raised funds for the synagogue, the Jewish 
Theological Seminary, and scholarship programs. Synagogue youths take 
part in the United Synagogue Youth organization. Each president of 
Brith Shalom has been installed during a weekend complemented by a 
scholar, lecturer or educational program that stimulated new ideas on 
Jewish learning.
  Mr. Speaker, Brith Shalom has much to celebrate on its 45th 
anniversary. The congregation has been a haven for its community. Since 
its beginnings through more than four decades of growth, Brith Shalom 
should be commended for its dedication to God and commitment to the 
needs of its congregation and surrounding community.

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