I consider it a distinct honor to serve as President of the Temple Beth Sholom congregation that has been Salem’s only synagogue for over sixty years.

I have been a member since 1997 and have been privileged to work with and come to know many of the members in our community. It has been a blessing to have made friends and share religious experiences here. I have found Temple Beth Sholom to be a welcoming place to learn and experience my Jewishness. Whether chanting Torah, or attending or leading services, I have found community members and rabbinic staff always supportive and encouraging in my journey to lead a richer Jewish life.

But there has been more to my experience here at Temple Beth Sholom than learning and participating in religious activities. I have found that Temple Beth Sholom offers a rich selection of adult education classes covering a wide variety of topics. There is a well organized Religious School that my children attended for many years. There is an active and vibrant post b’nei mitzvah teenage group that helps keeps these young people connected to the synagogue and to each other.

Volunteer opportunities abound and meet the varying needs of the membership. I have found it easy to jump in and participate in congregational affairs as there are many activities that meet my interests and time availability. Our volunteers serve an essential function in helping to build community here at Temple Beth Sholom.

I encourage you to visit us and come to find how Temple Beth Sholom is indeed a unique Jewish place in the Willamette Valley. I hope to see you soon .

B’Sholom,

Craig Cowan