Beth Emeth Synagogue relocates to Rockville Centre

Beth Emeth, the Reconstructionist Synagogue of the South Shore of Long Island, has sold its building in Hewlett and is now located at 430 DeMott Ave., where it is leasing space from Central Synagogue of Nassau County, a Reform congregation that like Beth Emeth, is affiliated with The Union for Reform Judaism.

“We are extraordinarily excited about our new facility in Rockville Centre, which is easily accessible to our Five Towns members and to others in the south Nassau community who would like to learn more about our unique inclusive approach to Judaic life,” said Beth Emeth Co-President Larry Kalvar, of the move, which became official on July 1.

“I am extremely pleased that I can tell you that … we have come to an agreement, have signed a lease, and we are looking forward to having them come in as tenants — and friends,” said Joanne Haiby, Central Synagogue’s president, in a letter to congregants, dated July 2, announcing the arrangement. Haiby said that she was anticipating that members of both congregations would have an opportunity to meet each other over the summer.

 The new space gives Beth Emeth its own chapel, Hebrew school classrooms, social hall and administrative offices, with ample room to grow. Rabbi Elliot L. Skiddell expects to begin holding services at the end of August, before the Jewish New Year season begins in early September. Enrollment is also now open for The Jewish Experience, Beth Emeth’s progressive Hebrew school, where tuition is free to synagogue members through sixth grade.

“As a Reconstructionist synagogue, our eclectic, friendly and caring congregation welcomes members of all ages and backgrounds. Members participate according to their own needs, whether for worship, education, socializing or friendship. We are committed to understanding and bringing to life our magnificent, dynamic, and ever-growing heritage, and to ensuring its ongoing, exciting and meaningful expression in contemporary living,” said Rabbi Skiddell.

As required by state law, the sale had to be recommended for approval by the Attorney General, which happened in June. Nassau State Supreme Court officially approved the 15,400-square-foot building’s sale to Kingdom Resources for $2.4 million on July 27. Kingdom Resources is the listed parent company of a ministry called Lilies International Christian Outreach.

The sale of the temple’s building spurred a group of residents and business owners to establish the Hewlett Residents Association to address concerns about potential overcrowding and parking.