In the Beginning…

On February 15th, 1931, two synagogues, The Hebrew Orthodox Benevolent Association and The Young Men’s Hebrew Association, merged to become Congregation Beth Jacob. Under the guidance of the newly-hired spiritual leader, Rabbi Louis Feigonz"l, who would guide and help shape this young congregation for more than 28 years, the founding members undertook a vigorous fundraising effort to build a new synagogue. Just one year later, a permanent brick building was erected at 2401 Ave. K, the site that had been the location of The Hebrew Orthodox Benevolent Association. Even though it was during the height of the Depression and in spite of the personal financial hardships those families must have experienced, their priority was to build a synagogue.

L’dor v’dor...

Through the years, generation after generation of those families and other families who came after them have considered Congregation Beth Jacob their spiritual home. The synagogue has been here, in good times and in bad, for families to celebrate simchas and find comfort during the sad times that are a part of all our lives. Some of those who remain today are part of our original founding families.

The Present…

Today, we build upon the legacy passed on to us as Congregation Beth Jacob continues to provide the only Conservative Jewish presence in Galveston. We are an egalitarian, volunteer-run congregation where both men and women assist in services, read Torah, serve as officers, and participate in all aspects of synagogue life. We welcome and encourage new people to step forward to study, learn, and help lead services or read Torah throughout the year.

Hachnasat orchim…

Congregation Beth Jacob is a synagogue that blends Jewish values, ethics and traditions into a house of worship and community. Our synagogue is truly an extended family for our members, as many of us grew up in the shul. We share friendships and simchas while providing family-like support to our members, and our synagogue is devoted to "hachnasat orchim," welcoming everyone within our community. Our membership includes families, singles, couples and seniors who are Jews by birth or by choice. Our diversity is bound together by our love of Judaism and our commitment to truly be there for each other. We are also united in our commitment to the study of Torah, the pursuit of mitzvot and deeds of loving kindness, prayer, and support for the State of Israel.

Exploring the Possibilities...

As we begin our 76th year, we hope you will consider becoming a member of Congregation Beth Jacob. Membership will afford you the opportunity to become an integral part of our congregational family, to worship at the only Conservative shul in Galveston, to make lasting friendships with other Jews, and to gain pride in knowing that your support is helping to strengthen a synagogue that needs and wants you. Call our synagogue office or join us for a Shabbat or Holiday service and learn more about how Congregation Beth Jacob can enrich your life as part of the community. We offer worship services and volunteer opportunities for everyone. We hope you’ll come and explore the possibilities.

Just Visiting?

If you are visiting Galveston, or planning to visit Galveston, we hope you will make it a point to join us for a Friday night or Saturday morning Shabbat Service. If you attend on Saturday morning and would like to chant a haftorah or do an alliya, we invite you to participate. We hope that you will also stay for our Kiddush luncheon immediately following the service. We look forward to seeing you.