Temple Chai was founded. Our first services and meetings were held in homes, schools, hotel spaces, and storefronts. Our Religious School was also established.

Our first Torah, the Holocaust Torah, was dedicated. Today, this sacred scroll is over 150 years old.

Temple Chai celebrated its first Bat Mitzvah.

Five acres of land were purchased, including a horse barn. With their own hands, congregants transformed the barn into a sanctuary, adding a social hall and offices.

Rabbi William Berk joined Temple Chai as spiritual leader, beginning what would become a decades-long era of remarkable growth,  from 60 families to over 1,000.

Temple Chai launched its Special Needs program, offering Jewish education and b’nai mitzvah preparation to children of all abilities, a first among Valley synagogues.

Philanthropy and tzedakah became a formal part of Temple Chai’s mission and identity.

A capital campaign was launched to fund a permanent sanctuary and social hall, ultimately raising nearly $2 million.

Temple Chai held its first High Holiday services in its own sanctuary ,a milestone moment for a congregation that had spent years worshipping wherever it could find space.

A new sanctuary and social hall were completed and dedicated.

The Shalom Center was established, expanding our commitment to care, connection, and support within the community.

Temple Chai celebrated its 25th Silver Anniversary.

The Early Childhood Center opened, welcoming young families and creating a strong foundation for early Jewish learning.

Two new Torah scrolls were scribed by congregants, deepening our connection to Jewish tradition and shared history.

Rabbi Evon Yakar joined Temple Chai. The Barness Center for Social Justice and Tzedakah was established, formalizing our commitment to tikkun olam.

Eco Chai was founded, combining Jewish values with environmental action and sustainability.

Cantor Peter Halpern joined Temple Chai, bringing with him a rich background in sacred music including a decade of work with Liberal Jewish Communities in the Netherlands.

Rabbi Mari Chernow was named Senior Rabbi, chosen overwhelmingly by the congregation. Rabbi Bonnie Koppell also joined the clergy team, bringing decades of rabbinic experience including service as a U.S. Army chaplain.

Rabbi Emily Segal began as Senior Rabbi.