[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 59 (Friday, April 26, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E563]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          IN RECOGNITION OF TEMPLE BETH AHM'S 50TH ANNIVERSARY

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                        HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, April 26, 2013

  Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Temple Beth 
Ahm as members gather to celebrate its 50th anniversary. Since its 
humble beginnings, the congregation has grown structurally and in 
membership, while continuing to provide outstanding spiritual guidance 
to the community.
  Temple Beth Ahm traces its roots back to a community committed to its 
Jewish values. They established the Strathmore-at-Matawan Jewish Center 
as an organization for meetings, worship, education and activities. 
These events were held at various locations throughout the town, 
including members' homes, schools and fire houses. The organization 
affiliated with United Synagogue of America in 1963 and continued to 
grow in membership. In 1968 it completed the construction of its 
synagogue and changed its name to Temple Beth Ahm, the House of the 
People, as individuals from surrounding communities began to join.
  Temple Beth Ahm continued to grow as it established a Hebrew School, 
preschool and theater group and its social groups expanded activities 
held at the temple. Over the years, other congregations merged with 
Temple Beth Ahm--The United Hebrew Congregation of Keyport in 1974 and 
Temple Ohav Shalom of Sayreville in 2002. Each of the mergers brought 
not only additional membership, but also Judaica and other objects and 
assets that enhanced the synagogue. It expanded its construction, 
adding classrooms and a permanent sanctuary in 1983 and later expanding 
its library and building a chapel.
  Throughout its 50 year history, Temple Beth Ahm has also expanded its 
vision. In 1973 it elected its first female president and followed 
Rabbinical Assembly procedure to open roles of ritual aspects to women. 
In 2011 it hired its first female Rabbi, Lisa Malik.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Temple Beth Ahm on its 
50th Anniversary. Its service to the community is truly deserving of 
this body's recognition.

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