[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 77 (Friday, May 5, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E399]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING CONGREGATION BETH SHALOM

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 5, 2023

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor 
Congregation Beth Shalom as it celebrates its 70th Anniversary.
  Congregation Beth Shalom was founded in 1951 by The Napa Jewish Group 
and was established as a synagogue in 1953. Over the years, 
Congregation Beth Shalom has grown and expanded, and today it is a 
thriving center of Jewish life in the Napa Valley area. The 
Congregation consists of over 200 households at present with a full-
time Rabbi, Synagogue Director, and Educator and Music Director. 
Members of Congregation Beth Shalom hold elected positions on the Napa 
City Council.
  The Congregation continues to serve not only the Jewish people of 
Napa, but also the larger Napa community. Congregation Beth Shalom has 
played an integral role in aiding others, including their participation 
with the Table, the Refugee Resettlement Fund, and Citizen's Legal 
Services. Notably, the Congregation's Rabbi actively participates in 
the Interfaith Council, which contributes towards the formation of a 
more inclusive community embracing all faiths, cultures, and 
orientations.
  Congregation Beth Shalom provides Jewish educational programs to the 
youth community of Napa. A non-sectarian summer program, Camp Chaverim, 
is led by the Congregation and serves children from the community 
annually. This camping program brings together children of all faiths 
and backgrounds to create a meaningful and inclusive environment and 
experience. Congregation Beth Shalom also provides reading assistance 
at many primary schools. The Congregation maintains crucial involvement 
with and support for the young people of Napa Valley.
  Mr. Speaker, there is no doubt that Congregation Beth Shalom has 
contributed to the community of Napa Valley over the past 70 years.

                          ____________________