Our congregation has grown to include a wonderful mix of members. We come from all branches of Judaism and from other religious backgrounds. We have single members, couples, families with young children, families with teenagers and grown children, and older "zaydies" (grandpas) and "bubbies" (grandmas). A genuine bond has developed among the membership and there is a vibrant sense of community and caring in the synagogue family. This sense of community is evident among the children. Our children have found in each other not only good friends, but also a shared history and culture which many lacked in their larger world of school and community.

Beth Chaim is a warm and accepting community that sees diversity as a strength. I can’t think of a more important quality to possess as we prepare for the challenges of the twenty-first century.

—Natalie Katz