Our History

From an idea that started with six or seven families in 1936, generation after generation of members have given Congregation Beth Ahm its distinctive tone and character. They have woven a tapestry rich in tradition and pride for the house of worship they built and grew. Each button you see on this page is a little time machine that will transport you to the past and bring to life a facet of what has made this shul what it is. Perhaps it will be a voice from the past—literally--hearing a recording of our founding Rabbi, Alter Kriegel, davenning, or reading his explanations of the symbols portrayed in our stained glass windows.

Perhaps it will be surveying a timeline of the milestones of our life as a synagogue. Perhaps it will be browsing the journals from our Annual Affairs, or perusing the programs from our Center Players theater troupe. Wherever you go on this page, you will see before your eyes the people and events that have brought us to this day.

Rabbi Alter Kriegel, Founding Rabbi
Listen to Recording of Rabbi Alter Kriegal recite Shabbat morning prayers.

Rabbinical Leadership

1937 – 1974 Rabbi Alter Kriegel (Rabbi Emeritus ’74-’80)
1974 – 1979 Rabbi Richard J. Plavin
1979 – 1990 Rabbi Michael Laxmeter
1990 – 1995 Rabbi Randall C. Mark
1995 – 1997 Rabbi Stephanie Dickstein
1997 – 2001 Rabbi Isaac Jeret
2001 – present Rabbi Aaron Kriegel

Past leadership -- Board, Men's Club & Women's League Presidents

S.S. Gittleman -- A Short Short Story, November 1939

J.R. Neger -- Our First President