New Reform Congregation Forms as Temple Chai Closes

February 1, 2021

With profound sadness, the Temple Chai Board of Trustees announces that Temple Chai will dissolve effective February 5th. We have been forced to close our virtual doors due to the COVID pandemic and other factors. Temple Chai served the Reform Jewish Community in San Antonio from its founding in 2005 to the present. The congregation was founded by Mel & Deenie Cohen, Norman & Judy Cohn, Mike & LaDina Epstein, Dr. George & Bobi Stern, Jimmy & Doris Toubin, and Dr. Elliot & Marcia Goren Weser. We thank all members of the broader San Antonio Jewish Community for your fellowship and assistance during the past sixteen years.

Conversations have already begun around the formation of a new congregation, based on the desire of many Temple Chai members to remain together as a spiritual community. “There is both a place and a need in San Antonio for a small Reform congregation that sees itself as a mishpocha,” said Lisa Goldstein, Temple Chai’s Cantorial Soloist and Educator. “Inclusivity is something we value deeply. Every member is important and everyone is welcome to be part of our community.” Goldstein is guiding the effort and will serve as spiritual leader. She will be ordained as a rabbi in June 2021.

Shabbat worship services, the children’s education program, and adult education currently offered by Temple Chai are expected to continue without interruption under the auspices of the new congregation while it is in formation.

To learn more or to become a founding member of the new Reform congregation, contact Lisa Goldstein at [email protected] or at (210) 340-2090.