To our valued members, associates and friends,

Based on the latest Government restrictions, the physical size of our facilities, the love we feel for each other and our families, and advice received from the Qld Jewish Board of Deputies (QJBD), in accordance with Government Health Department guidelines, it is with a heavy heart that I must inform you that a decision has been made to close our doors and suspend all services for the foreseeable future due to the threat of the virus. This decision, which includes Shabbat services, Cheder and B’nei Mitzvah classes, has not been made lightly. In fact, this has been a most difficult and heartbreaking decision to make. The gift of our religion from G-d above, teaches us about Pikuach Nefesh, the need to prioritise human Life (with a capital ‘L’) above all else. 

Only G-d knows the duration of this closure but we do know one thing: This Is Temporary. Connection to our kehillah (community) is what we are all about. So much of our world revolves around our close connection with each other as Jews, davening (praying) with a minyan – all of it. We love and cherish that. For now, we must keep in mind that another channel is eternally open and available to each one of us - we have a personal connection with G-d. We must tap into that direct spiritual line and reach out now more than ever. 

Please know that we will communicate with you and share all information as we receive it. We are, first and foremost, one mishpocheh (family), our communication is two-way. Please feel free to reach out and contact us if you need to,  as we are here to support you day and night. 

We must remember that suspension of Shul life as we know it, is happening to protect all, especially our elderly congregants, and we will do whatever it takes to look after them.

Wishing you all good health, peace and love, until we can once more meet in person.

Alvin Maradeen        President

Beit Or v'Shalom Inc is located in the state capital of Queensland, Brisbane. We are a progressive synagogue, with total equality for men and women, believing that Jewish law does not remain static and that it does not always carry the same value for Jews in different ages. Beit Or v'Shalom is involved in the broader Brisbane Jewish community with members active in many communal organisations. We welcome new members and visitors, with services held every  Saturday. We celebrate all major Jewish festivals and encourage families and visitors to attend.

The Congregation is managed by a Board of Directors consisting of honorary office bearers, comprising a President, a Vice-President, a Treasurer and a Secretary and the Immediate Past President and a number of ordinary members including a representative of the Guild of the Congregation. The members of this Board of Directors are elected at the Annual General Meeting.

Beit Or v'Shalom Inc is an affiliate of  the Union for Progressive Judaism.

For more information, please browse our website and feel free to get in touch.