After three years of searching for a new spiritual home, members and guests of Congregation Beth Shalom of the Blue Hills will break ground for a new synagogue on a new road, Shoolman Way, off Lodge Street in Milton, on Sunday, June 22nd at 4:00 p.m.  The bucolic location for the new building was generously donated to the congregation by Marvin and Andrea Gordon, and it has a singular historical significance.

Mr. Gordon’s grandparents, Bertha and Samuel Shoolman, were the first Jewish family to purchase property in the town of Milton in 1920.  Mr. Shoolman farmed the ten acres of land, producing and distributing kosher milk for 29 years.  The Gordon family continues to live elsewhere on the property in a house they built in 1965.

Congregation Beth Shalom of the Blue Hills brings together two venerable synagogues, Temple Shalom of Milton and Temple Beth El of Quincy.  The small congregation’s administration, social and cultural activities, religious services, and school have been conducted in four separate locations in and around Milton since 2011, when the congregation left its former location.  Its new home on Shoolman Way will happily bring back together all of the congregation’s activities under one new roof.

The groundbreaking ceremony, which will feature remarks from Rabbi Alfred Benjamin, congregants and officials, will symbolize a new era of hope and optimism for the local Jewish community.  The public is welcome to join the Congregation in this joyous event.  Please note that there will be no parking on Lodge Street – drop-offs only.  Parking will be available at St. Elizabeth’s Church on the corner of Randolph Avenue and Reedsdale Road, or the Milton Cemetery on Gun Hill Street.  Shoolman Way is a short walk from both parking locations.  Attendees are advised to dress appropriately for a wooded setting.

Residents interested in Congregation Beth Shalom of the Blue Hills’ services, events and activities are invited to call 617-698-3394 or visit BethShalomBlueHills.org for information.