Who We Are

Beth Chaim Reform Congregation was established in 1992 by several families who wished to have a Reform Jewish presence in the greater Chester County area.  One of the primary goals was to establish a Jewish house of worship where all people could enjoy the practice of Reform Judaism and the feeling of being part of the larger Jewish family.   As a great many of our families are of mixed religious backgrounds, we pride ourselves on being a Jewish congregation where all feel they belong.  Diversity is our strength. 

We are affiliated with the Union of Reform Judaism and the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia.  Through these organizations, we have the opportunity for involvement in a wide range of Jewish activities throughout the Delaware Valley and the nation.

On August 26, 2007, we moved our Torah into our new home in Malvern. After years of conducting services and religious school at a variety of facilities, we built and have embraced our own house of worship.  Beth Chaim’s history was built upon members, and together with our new members we serve to make our community stronger.

Our Rabbi, Aileen Hollander, enthusiastically provides leadership, spiritual guidance, and a focus for our educational activities.  She is a skilled teacher and a wonderful listener.  Rabbi Hollander vivaciously shares with us her joy of Judaism.  We generally have Friday night Shabbat services twice each month, have B'Nai Mitzvah services as needed, and observe all major Jewish holidays together throughout the year.  Under Rabbi Hollander’s leadership, the Congregation is dedicated to meeting all of the life cycle events and rabbinical care needs of our members.

Rabbi Hollander also serves as the Director of our Religious School.  Our Religious School meets on Sunday mornings and encompasses kindergarten through pre-Bar/Bat Mitzvah training.  There is also a spirited pre-school group, which meets twice monthly, a B’nai Mitzvah group for those approaching Bar/Bat Mitzvah, and a post-B’nai Mitzvah Program as well as an Adult Education program.  We have an active Sisterhood, a Men’s Club and a variety of social activities. Additionally, we have many activities, functions and events for youth, teens, families and empty nesters. We also have a presence on social networking sites, including LinkedIn and Facebook, for those who are computer savvy and appreciate online interaction and discussion.