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Congregration HistoryOseh Shalom was founded as the Jewish Congregation of Laurel on May 24, 1966, by 16 families expressing their commitment to a cohesive Jewish presence in Laurel. Quality programs were provided from the beginning, thanks to the dedicated efforts of energetic and talented members working together with part-time paid professionals. Services were first held at a local bank and then in our interim home in the Montpelier community of South Laurel. The growth of the greater Laurel community enabled us to build a small, versatile synagogue/Religious School in 1973 at 13714 Briarwood Drive. In August 1973, members chose the Hebrew name Oseh Shalom, "Source of Peace." The Congregation affiliated with the Reconstructionist Movement in 1979. In 1980, we had grown enough to hire a full-time rabbi. Following an extensive search, we hired an outstanding leader, Rabbi Gary S. Fink. In 2006, Rabbi Doug Heifetz took over and Rabbi Fink continued on as Rabbi Emeritus. Having outgrown our "one-room shulhouse," in 1983, we decided to build a larger facility in a more central location. Our new synagogue opened in time for the 1991 High Holy Days. Today our members come from Columbia, Silver Spring, Burtonsville, Ellicott City, Laurel, and beyond. Oseh Shalom NowOseh Shalom is a vibrant Reconstructionist synagogue dedicated to egalitarianism, participation and community. We strive to create a warm, friendly atmosphere for celebrating Jewish life through learning, prayer, and mutual help. We are committed to fostering a Jewish spiritual experience that is creative yet rooted in tradition. Please feel free to join us and to help us build a thriving Jewish community. Location: Here you'll find a map and directions to Oseh Shalom. |