Originally founded as an Orthodox congregation by Eastern European Jewish immigrants in 1907, Temple Beth El (TBE) joined the conservative movement in 1944, and by the 1950s was the state’s largest conservative Jewish congregation. Architect Charles H. McCauley designed the 1926 synagogue in the Byzantine Revival style, incorporating elements like rounded arches and ornate multi-colored terra cotta bricks at the parapet. In keeping with Jewish tradition, non-representational pale yellow stained-glass windows are framed by patterned brick, allowing golden light to enter and move across the sanctuary and embody sacred time in architecture. During the Civil Rights movement, TBE was among a group of synagogues in the South and Midwest targeted by white supremacist hate groups. In April 1958, during a period of frequent bombings of sacred places in Birmingham, a bomb was discovered on the eastern exterior of the synagogue’s lower floor. Thankfully the bomb failed before it could detonate.

Through this history and its continued commitment to “tikkun olam” – repairing the world – the synagogue founded the Beth El Civil Rights Experience program, which annually brings over 1,200 visitors to TBE for conversation about solidarity, moral courage, accountability, and change. TBE also hosts supply drives and monthly community programming through its Social Action Committee in addition to year-round arts, culture, and health programs for seniors through Generation XYZ. Southern Jewish Life Magazine uses office space in its building and TBE annually provides Purim gifts and home visits for 250 seniors and homebound people.

A $364,250 National Fund grant with $364,250 in matching funds raised by the congregation will support roof repair as well as upgraded electrical and fire alarm systems, ensuring the long-term structural integrity of the historic synagogue.

Photo by David Graves