[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 61 (Wednesday, May 17, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E847]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       CONGRATULATING TEMPLE BETH ISRAEL FOR 100 YEARS OF SERVICE

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                         HON. PAUL E. KANJORSKI

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 17, 2006

  Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask you and my esteemed 
colleagues in the House of Representatives to pay tribute to Temple 
Beth Israel in Hazleton, Pennsylvania, on the occasion of its 100th 
anniversary.
  In 1895, the Jews living in Hazleton organized an orthodox 
congregation. But, even at that time there was a desire among some of 
the members to establish a congregation that favored reform practices.
  In the fall, of 1906, a small group was able to engage the services 
of Rabbi Block who conducted High Holiday services which they believed 
were more in keeping with the modem American conditions of the time.
  Late in September 1906, 23 men met to organize a reform congregation 
that would be called Beth Israel, or ``House of Israel.'' Soon, Temple 
Beth Israel joined the Union of American Hebrew Congregations.
  Over the years, the congregation has followed the path of the city of 
Hazleton with a combination of good times and hard times. Throughout 
its history, Temple Beth Israel has contributed to the city's business 
and civic leaders, distinguished doctors and lawyers.
  Temple Beth Israel has been a good neighbor and a helpful ally. The 
congregation has survived for 100 years and stands ready for the next 
100 years.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Temple Beth Israel and 
all its members on the happy occasion of their 100th anniversary. 
Congregations like Temple Beth Israel form the solid foundations every 
community needs for moral guidance and human development. It is a proud 
day for Temple Beth Israel and we share in the congregation's 
exuberance.

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