In February 1985, a nucleus of families heeded the call of Rabbi David H. Auerbach "to go where the children are" and created the framework to establish "The Conservative Congregation of South Dade." The outpouring of support was overwhelming. Within three weeks more than 200 members pledged their support and $1,000,000 The membership increased to 300 families in the weeks that followed. A 3.5 million goal was set at the initial meeting and the enthusiasm of these committed families showed the need in our community for a new Conservative congregation.
Strong determination coupled with participation of so many people created an energized momentum. We selected the name "Bet Shira" meaning "House of Song" to reflect the upbeat and dynamic character of our membership. We knew we could build a strong Conservative Congregation to serve the South Dade area. Our plans were to keep the momentum going. Our facilities needed to be first class to attract and serve the members we sought. On May 5, 1988 we dedicated the Letty Roth Synagogue Complex and the Arin Stacey Appplebaum Sanctuary. Together, as a family we had "made it happen."
Since it's dynamic inception, Bet Shira has continued to grow and develop. Our services are warm and meaningful. Over and over visitors tell us that if they lived in our neighborhood they would join our synagogue.
Bet Shira truly is a Synagogue of excellence. Our programming is outstanding, our Early Childhood Department and our Religious School offer a nurturing environment and a superior Judaic education. Our youth groups continue to win awards for programming and participation.
We have accomplished so much in our short period of existence, but know the challenge of the future is to endow our beloved congregation with the resources to broaden our programming and to increase the scope of the services we can offer.
We invite you to become partners in this sacred endeavor. We invite you to join us fashioning the Bet Shira that will meet the needs of this and future generations.
