Coming together to build community and live Shalom since 1967.

A living history of Congregation Shalom

Humble beginnings and the founding of community

It all started in 1967 when a group of Jewish families in Chelmsford, MA came together to form a congregation, the first synagogue in Chelmsford. They named it Shalom – meaning peace – inspired by the end of the Six Day War. With no building of their own, early members were graciously welcomed by local churches where monthly services were held. Dues were $52 a year, holidays were celebrated with borrowed Torah scrolls, and services were led by student rabbis.

Traditions take root

The congregation quickly began establishing traditions, grateful to the generosity of local churches and schools for providing places to gather. In 1968, members celebrated their first community Passover Seder, participated in Chelmsford's July 4th celebration, launched Congregation Shalom's religious school, held the first-ever High Holiday services in Chelmsford's 300-year history, and started the tradition of a community break fast after Yom Kippur. These are all traditions we still embrace today.

Building for the future

In 1969, Congregation Shalom purchased land on Richardson Road in Chelmsford and, in 1973, broke ground and began construction of the synagogue. On September 6, 1974, the building was dedicated, attended by clergy of all faiths, town officials and friends. Congregation Shalom finally had a true home.

In 1976, after years without our own rabbi, Congregation Shalom was finally able to hire a part-time rabbi, Rabbi Terry Bard. As the congregation grew, we created vibrant groups such as Sisterhood, Brotherhood and Shalomies (our youth group). Social committees planned summer socials, 'mystery nights', and gourmet Progressive Dinners. Our religious school expanded as more families joined us. By 1982, our school required more space, and three classrooms were added to the building.

Expansion and renewal

As the Congregation Shalom family continued to grow, more space was needed. In 1993, we sold some of our land to interested developers, and with the realization of these funds, an intensive drive was launched to expand the building. Ground was broken in the summer of 1995. The old structure was gutted and transformed into the religious school, and the new sanctuary wing was built. The congregation celebrated Rosh Hashanah services in the new sanctuary just three months later on September 24, 1995.

A new era

In 1998, Rabbi Shoshana Perry joined Congregation Shalom as our first full-time Rabbi. Under Rabbi Perry's leadership adult education was expanded, the Chai high school was launched, new family-oriented Shabbat experiences began, Interfaith activities and Social Action Programs were re-invigorated – the congregation flourishes.

Commitment to social justice and the greater community

Throughout our history, Congregation Shalom has been active in community affairs on the local level through the Interfaith Associations and community agencies. Interfaith services and study sessions have been central to our congregation’s efforts to build bridges between religious groups.

We have also been deeply involved in doing the work of Tikkun Olam (Repair of the World), through our work with organizations such as the Lowell Transitional Shelter, Senior Centers, and the Lowell Wish Project. Each year our congregation and our students raise tzedakah money to help organizations locally and internationally.

Our Rabbi and our Social Action/Social Justice committee have responded to events on the local, national, and international scene, focusing on issues such as those that impact the Jewish community and Israel, as well as immigration, poverty, and the environment.