Vicki Swinford

Temple Beth Shalom

Temple Beth Shalom is a warm and inclusive congregation whose members are inspired to explore and express Judaism within the broad and dynamic framework of Reform beliefs and practices. We seek to provide Jewish spiritual, educational and social opportunities which encourage personal development and social responsibility as well as promote greater knowledge of our Jewish history and culture. Founded in 1977, Temple Beth Shalom (TBS) is the center of Jewish life in New Albany, a vibrant community near Columbus, Ohio. One of the first things you see upon arrival is our welcoming sign: "Temple Beth Shalom: Joyful, Personal, Accessible". Joyful. Whether we are singing together in ancient prayer, collecting items for the Mid-Ohio Foodbank, or sharing a meal after a "First Friday" Shabbat service, TBS is a place of Joyful connection. TBS' dynamic Religious School provides a lasting foundation of Jewish life for over 250 students, fostering strong peer bonds and friendships that last a lifetime. Personal. At TBS, Personal is a verb. We find God in our connections to one another: In every meal brought to someone recovering from an illness, in every laugh around a Shabbat dinner table, in every hug comforting a mourner, and our ever-growing list of congregant-led affinity groups. Accessible. We are guided by the holy standard from the Book of Isaiah, "My house shall be a house of prayer for ALL people." TBS is a Jewish home to anyone who is searching, however they may be searching. We welcome those who are "twice blessed" in the LGBTQ community; those from a variety of socio-economic backgrounds; interfaith households; those who worship inside our Temple; and, those who prefer to watch services online.