About Us

Hevrat Shalom was established in the fall of 1999. At that time, the founding five members knew there was a need for a Reform congregation that could serve the growing Gaithersburg area.

Today, Hevrat Shalom is a thriving congregation. In addition to offering Shabbat and holiday services, we have an established religious school, youth and social group, and an adult education program.

Hevrat Shalom is an inclusive congregation that welcomes all families. We are dedicated to the principles of Tikkun Olam and strive to advance tolerance and social justice. Through various activities, we offer a unique opportunity for spiritual growth, learning and strengthening ties to the Jewish community.

Our Rabbi, Reuben R. Levine, is a graduate of the Jewish Theological Seminary where he received his Rabbinical Ordination as well as his Master of Hebrew Literature and Doctor of Divinity degrees.

Arnold Saltzman, our Associate Rabbi, has degrees from Brooklyn College, Columbia University Teachers College, the Jewish Theological Seminary of America. He is currently completing his rabbinic studies at the Academy for Jewish Religion.

Our Cantorial Soloist, Audrey Katz, has been Religious School Music Director at Washington Hebrew Congregation since 1995.

For detailed information about our clergy please visit our Leadership page.

Our services reflect the diversity of our congregation and contain both Hebrew and English text and songs. Our Shabbat services, held the first and third Friday night of each month, have a Reform style with a traditional flavor.  The first service of the month generally includes, along with the Sabbath eve prayers, a brief Torah study session with the Rabbi.  The second service of the month is our Family Service which typically includes participation by our children. 

Membership dues at Hevrat Shalom are considerably lower than most other synagogues. Our aim is to keep the costs to our members low while also keeping the quality of the Synagogue high.

We hope that you will visit us to experience the warmth and friendship of Hevrat Shalom. For more information please call the synagogue office at (301) 528-5307.