Sanctuary
Our sanctuary and entry foyer underwent a major refurbishment in 2007 thanks to the largesse of the Zeiger and Goldman families. With seating in the pews for 250, it is a worship space of which we are justifiably proud. Whether one enters via the grand flight of steps outside or the elevator bank inside, pictures can only do it partial justice. Beautiful stained glass windows and a skylight in the barrel-vaulted ceiling cast a golden light during the daylight hours. Outstanding acoustics-to which the pipe organ (a gift of the Silverman family) and our volunteer choir give ample testimony—characterize the space always.
A colorful tapestry interpretation of the Ten Commandments, a gift of Dorys and Albert Berg, adorns the ark doors. The bema was made handicapped accessible several years ago through the addition of a ramp. With a color palette of sky blue, wheat, and aubergine, a sense of majesty and intimacy, serenity and holiness pervades the entire space.
A story is told of a woman who once went to visit her children’s Temple in another city. They showed her about proudly, for it as a glistening, new facility, built on a grand scale and with every conceivable amenity. The woman looked about admiringly, but then asked. “Where do you go to cry?” Our sanctuary is a place where one can both laugh and cry. We think you’ll agree.
Memorial Wing
The Memorial Building was completed in 1958 to provide much needed space. Religious school class rooms and the Mary Hurwitz Library are located on the upper level. A spacious entry lobby on the main level includes a display from the TBS Judaic Art Collection, the Rabbi’s Study and the temple offices. The lower level provides an auditorium with stage that is utilized for religious celebration and receptions, kitchen and Vestry room which houses The Judaica Shop and is used for small receptions.
Judaica Collection
We are proud of our Judaica art collection which is located throughout the Temple, but especially in the Memorial Wing. Made possible through the generosity of several generations of congregants, our collection boasts many silver ceremonial objects – Torah crowns, hannukiot, spice boxes, Kiddush cups, Etrog holders and megillot—some dating to the early 19th century. The collection also includes paintings, prints and sculptures. Of special note is the Sephardic Torah scroll, dating to 19th century Cairo.
Cemetery
Temple B’rith Sholom (TBS) maintains Jewish burial grounds in historic Oak Ridge Cemetery, the final resting place of President Abraham Lincoln. Members in good standing and non-Jewish family members are welcome to be buried alongside one another in the TBS section.
For information concerning the purchase of burial plots, please contact the Temple Office.
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