Temple Beth Sholom

Wonderful synagogue in Chula Vista. Coming from a reform background this conservative congregation was an easy transition. Our family felt very welcome. Rabbi Samuel runs a beautiful service. We have been attending for over a year and enjoy every minute.

Temple Beth Shalom has come alive since Rabbi Michael Samuel arrived. I always loved this shul, but now there is a little extra something special that sets the experience of going here apart from other synagogues. Lots of passion and warmth and creativity fill the space. Although I didn’t grow up going to this temple, I feel at home there.

I attended Saturday morning services for the first time on December 3, 2011. Rabbi Michael is an energetic, caring, sincere, and fascinating rabbi who gives all kinds of insights and explanations during the service. Congregants also use percussion «drumming» to accompany the singing of melodies, which also was different.
The day I went, the weather turned cold and the front doors were kept open, so it was a bit chilly inside the sanctuary and that’s the only reason I am giving this synagogue four stars instead of five. I told the rabbi about it being cold and he said that he would start closing the doors during future services.
After the service, everyone retired to the social hall, where a light sit-​down meal was given! There was matzah-​ball soup, lentil soup, tuna fish salad, challah, and wine. The meal was delightful and the people friendly.
I hope to return and attend Friday night services at 7:30 p.m. in the near future.