“To remember the past and to build Oheb Shalom’s future.”

The words appear on one of the dedication plaques in Oheb Shalom’s Founders Hall. They serve as a reminder to keep looking ahead and honor our history.

Two years ago, our existing memorial boards had run out of room. Upon learning the wiring behind them was deemed a fire hazard, all the boards were turned off.

A decision had to be made. What made the most sense? To repair or replace the boards?

Discussions began. A committee was formed. Two substantial donations were made, and the project was underway.

It was determined that we would replace the boards with new automated ones. A third substantial large donation was received, a fund was established, and those donations came in that made the project viable.

The project would be broken into two phases: Phase I would include the memorial boards and the refurbishing of the surrounding areas in Founders Hall. Phase II, to begin at a future date, will involve the boards in the Sanctuary.

Hours were spent verifying that our yahrzeit database was up-to-date and matched what was on the existing 765 plaques. All names on the previous boards would automatically be included on the new ones, plus extra space for the future.. Members were given the opportunity to purchase new plaques, so their loved ones could be included in the revitalized space.

Members of the Men’s Club spent a morning removing the old plaques. After they came down and the wall behind them was opened up, we made an astonishing discovery: there was a beautiful brick wall behind them. The wall is part of the building, but has been covered by the boards and previous renovations.

Masons were hired to repair the wall and fill empty spaces using existing bricks. A touch of white paint, called whitewash,  smoothed it out. Many choices were made as well as several trips to Baum, the company that helped design and manufacture the boards.

Were there bumps in the road? Of course. Bumps are a part of any new construction project.  What kept us going was hearing the stories about your loved ones and the history of Oheb Shalom. On Shabbat morning, listening to congregants discussing when the brick was covered and what is on the other side.. We truly understood the meaning of Founders Hall. It is our shared history. The history of the people and their families who built Oheb, building the foundation of making it what it is today… and enabling us to continue its history and legacy for years to come.

May the memories of those we love always be an inspiration. 

We thank everyone who gave their thoughts and insights as this project took its many twists and turns and those who purchased the plaques.