History

Historical records tell us that the first Jews living in Toledo arrived in 1837. As the Jewish population of Ohio continued to grow, so too did the Toledo Jewish community. Congregation Shomer Emunim was founded in 1870, and then was dissolved, but by 1875 the congregation was reorganized as a Reform congregation, with services being held in store rooms and homes. The name of the congregation, selected by Rabbi Isaac Mayer Wise, founder of Reform Judaism in America, was "Shomer Emunim - Guardian of the Faithful," taken from the Book of Isaiah (26:2) "Open the gates, and let a righteous nation enter, [a nation] that keeps the faith."

The first place of worship was a small church rented from a Christian congregation located on 11th Street between Madison and Jefferson in downtown Toledo. In 1879, it was decided to raise the then grand sum of $12,500 to build a Sanctuary. A small structure was built on Tenth Street between Washington and Monroe. As the Jewish population was centered near the building, it was considered an ideal location. The Temple was personally dedicated by Rabbi Isaac Mayer Wise.

The Toledo Jewish community grew, and after 23 years, the congregation moved to a larger building on Scottwood Avenue between Monroe and Bancroft, which had previously been used by Epworth United Methodist Church. In 1916, with a growing membership, the congregation built a major new synagogue on Collingwood Avenue, known affectionately as the "Collingwood Avenue Temple." By 1950, Reform Judaism was a vital and flourishing movement and the building was enlarged. Five years later, another addition was made to the building.

In 1973, our beautiful edifice on Sylvania Avenue was built and dedicated. Today, The Temple remains a vibrant institution. Our school educates hundreds of children; young and old families find meaningful spiritual, social, educational and service activities; and we continue to espouse the highest principles of our faith in the general community.

Reform Judaism

Reform Judaism affirms the central tenets of Judaism - God, Torah and Israel - even as it acknowledges the diversity of Reform Jewish beliefs and practices. We believe that all human beings are created in the image of God, and that we are God's partners in improving the world. Tikkun olam — repairing the world — is a hallmark of Reform Judaism as we strive to bring peace, freedom and justice to all people.

Reform Jews accept the Torah as the foundation of Jewish life containing God's ongoing revelation to our people and the record of our people's ongoing relationship with God. We see the Torah as God inspired, a living document that enables us to confront the timeless and timely challenges of our everyday lives.

In addition to our belief that Judaism must change and adapt to the needs of the day to survive and our firm commitment to Tikkun Olam, the following principles distinguish Reform Jews from other streams of Judaism in North America.

Reform Jews are committed to the principle of inclusion, not exclusion. Since 1978 the Reform Movement has been reaching out to Jews-by-choice and interfaith families, encouraging them to embrace Judaism. Reform Jews consider children to be Jewish if they are the child of a Jewish father or mother, so long as the child is raised as a Jew.

Reform Jews are committed to the absolute equality of women in all areas of Jewish life. We were the first movement to ordain women rabbis, invest women cantors and elect women presidents of our synagogues.

Reform Jews are also committed to the full participation of gays and lesbians in synagogue life as well as society at large.