Congregation Beth Yam

Established 1985

In this issue, we take a look at Congregation Beth Yam – Southern Beaufort County’s home for the local Jewish community.

A small group of Jewish families began to meet together and formed The Jewish Community Association of Hilton Head in 1981. By 1985 the congregation became known a Congregation Beth Yam. (The name Beth Yam means House by the Sea.) The congregation grew and dedicated the first Jewish house of worship on Hilton Head Island on January 14, 1990.

As a Reform Jewish community, the congregation is open to all who uphold Jewish traditions yet allowing for innovation that embraces diversity while focusing on those beliefs that are held in common. Members come from many different backgrounds – Reform, Conservative, Orthodox, and Reconstructionist.

There are over 300 member families and 60+ Associate families affiliated with the Congregation. Rabbi Brad Bloom has led the Congregation full-time since 2009.

Shabbat services are held every Friday evening with monthly Saturday morning Shabbat services. Services are also held for all High Holy Days.

Activities are provided for congregants of all ages – a youth group, Sisterhood, Men’s Club, and Senior Citizen Programs. Religious education is offered through the Hebrew School and there is a large Jewish library and resource center.

Congregation Beth Yam has a very informative and up-to-date website where additional information, as well as a link to an extensive history, is found. https://bethyam.org