Our synagogue, originally known as Old York Road Jewish Community Center, was founded in 1946 in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. In 1950, when we acquired our current site in Abington, we became Old York Road Temple.

As a reflection of our commitment to maintaining a warm and inclusive spiritual home for those seeking a traditionally-oriented Reform congregation, in 1959 we added Beth Am (“House of the People”) to our name.

Old York Road Temple - Beth Am was the first Reform Synagogue in Montgomery County to affiliate with the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ).

Construction began on The Strick Auditorium in 1958 and in1968, acclaimed architect Vincent G. Kling designed a new central sanctuary.

Dedicated in 1975, the Molish Sanctuary is a beautiful place for peaceful contemplation and is the heart of Old York Road Temple - Beth Am. Its recent renovation provides accessibility to all.

In 2004, our Temple family welcomed congregants from Temple Beth Torah, bringing with them a history of more than 50 years of Reform Jewish traditions.

Here at Beth Am, you’ll find a strong commitment not only to religious and cultural values but to the diverse intellectual, spiritual and aesthetic needs of our members

In addition, Beth Am has been a sponsoring institution of YAHAD (for Bux-Mont Congregations) and the Kehillah of Old York Road. Both are programs of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, working to strengthen our Jewish community.

Beth Am combines the elements of a rich Jewish heritage with the dynamic characteristics of Reform Judaism. This orientation is expressed in our liturgy, our music, our customs, our educational philosophy, and our approach to ritual expression.

At Beth Am, women and men participate equally in all religious services. The wearing of tallit and/or kipah is optional.

We welcome the Deaf Community and offer interpreted Shabbat services. The schedule varies, depending on special programs and holidays. Please email our interpreter Karen Staller or our congregant Heather Goldstein for dates and times.

Kabbalat Shabbat, an adult-oriented service at 6:00 p.m and a Family Service with our Junior Choir at 7:30 p.m. are held on the first Friday of each month.

Erev Shabbat Services are held on all other Fridays at 8:00 p.m.

Our Saturday Shabbat morning services are held in the sanctuary at 10:00 a.m. A unique Service of Comfort - Hope - Renewal is held on a monthly basis.

A lay led Torah Study class takes place every Saturday at 9:00 a.m., followed by a brief service in the Klein Chapel. Sunday mornings offer another opportunity for Torah study supported by our Brotherhood.

Shabbat B’Yachad, a creative service for students in grades 4 through 7, is held at 10:30 a.m. in the chapel on the second Saturday of each month.

A special Tot Shabbat service takes place the third Saturday of each month at 10:30 a.m. which includes an arts and crafts program followed by brunch.

Old York Road Temple - Beth Am encourages every member of the Congregation to become involved. An Executive Board and Board of Directors each meet monthly. We have an active Sisterhood, Brotherhood and Parents Association. A variety of committees plans programs, review policies and discuss new ideas. Beth Am provides many opportunities for enriching the quality of Jewish life and we welcome congregant participation.

Sisterhood With an ongoing calendar of religious and social activities designed to increase our understanding of Judaism, the Sisterhood is one of the most vibrant centers of synagogue activity. Among its most popular programs are Rosh Chodesh gatherings, Women’s Seder, Shalom Wagon, Book Reviews, Fashion Show, Party Showcase and programs addressing women’s issues and concerns. In addition, the Sisterhood manages the Temple’s Judaica Gift Shop.

Brotherhood This dynamic group provides social activities, participates in community service projects and raises funds for the Temple. Brotherhood sponsors a Sunday morning Torah Study group, and welcomes all adults to participate. In addition, it coordinates semi-annual blood drives, hosts a variety of speakers, and sponsors a competitive baseball team that fosters friendship among men of all ages.

Religious Practices Committee This committee meets regularly with our Rabbis and Cantor to discuss the worship practices, ritual concerns and ideological principles governing synagogue life.

Education Committee Comprised of educators and congregants, this committee addresses issues related to the Temple's religious school and its various educational programs.

Parents Association Dedicated to developing and staffing projects related to the Religious School, our Parents Association puts particular emphasis on programs illuminating Jewish holidays.

Youth Group Designed to promote a strong Jewish identity among our young people, the Youth group also encourages community service and sponsors social events.

College Connection This small group of dedicated volunteers sends regular mailings and packages to congregants’ college-age children. For many students, College Connection is the most significant link they have to the synagogue while they are away.

Seniors At monthly meetings, members of our Seniors group meet old friends and new, and enjoy a variety of interesting programs including organized tours.

Membership Committee Committee members follow up on all new member inquiries, spending time with prospective members during and after Shabbat services. This committee organizes “Open Houses” throughout the year and sponsors an annual Community Fair.

Community Affairs Committee Involved with furthering the Jewish principle of “tikkun olam,” a commitment to social action, this committee’s major projects include an annual Mitzvah Day, food drives, and symposia on current issues.

Caring Community A dedicated corps of volunteers reach out to congregants who may need meals, support, or just a friendly phone call

Ways and Means Committee As the fund-raising arm of the Temple, this committee sponsors concerts, shows, trips, our supermarket scrip project and a variety of innovative and exciting programs.

House & Grounds Committee This committee ensures that our Temple is in good working order. Their responsibilities include overseeing the heating and air conditioning systems, the roof, lighting and sound systems, housekeeping, lawn care, snow removal and overall general maintenance.