(Photo courtesy of Saco Area Historical Society)
Congregation Etz Chaim was founded in 1906 in a former Episcopal church. The congregation flourished through the 1950’s when it served more than 125 families in Biddeford and Saco alone. However, by the 1970’s, membership had dwindled to about 25 families, no longer had a rabbi or offered Hebrew school.
Things started looking up at Etz Chaim around 1980 when lifetime member Arnold Shapiro of Biddeford became president of the synagogue. He nudged the Orthodox congregation toward the less-strict Conservative movement, which attracted more people to the congregation, especially interfaith families.
Shapiro also founded the York County Jewish Community Council, which helped to reach more than 250 Jewish families from all over York County. Membership grew, and Etz Chaim began offering Hebrew school again.
Today, because of the tremendous ruach (spirit) of many people, Congregation Etz Chaim continues to thrive. Now described as non-denominational, the congregation welcomes all types of Jewish families, from orthodox to reconstructionist. Membership includes over 100 families who lead and participate in religious and social programs.
The renaissance of the synagogue is evident in the synagogue improvements that have occurred over the last decade. For example, structural updates have included a handicapped outdoor ramp, indoor elevator, and new flooring in the social hall. These renovations show how the congregation works together to meet the varied needs of its members, whether they are senior citizens who need assistance negotiating stairs, or youngers who need a comfortable place to study Hebrew. The congregation members are dedicated to meet the needs of each other.
There is an incredible feeling of community and family at Etz Chaim. This devekut (dedication) is evident every time the congregation gets together. Bi-monthly Shabbat services, Bar/Bat Mitzvah services, and other religious services are lead by synagogue president, Dr. David Strassler, and his wife, Cantor Beth Strassler. The active Etz Chaim social community puts together monthly potluck suppers, Holiday parties, community mitzvah projects and Jewish education programs.
Learn about the us on this website, or send an email, or ask for a tour. We invite you to join us, experience the warmth and unity of the Etz Chaim congregation. Be part of our history and our future.
The Samuel Osher Memorial Library
The Samuel Osher Memorial Library was founded in 1998 in collaboration with the York County Jewish Community Council with a mission to provide access to Jewish books, music, videos, and
educational materials for Congregation Etz Chaim members. The Library was named for Samuel Osher, who died of liver cancer at age 43. Sam was a generous member who continuously supported the synagogue’s growth. His wife, Paula, served as co-chair of the original library
committee.
In November 1999, the Library opened with about 500 books and videos in a newly renovated space on the second floor of the 36 Bacon Street synagogue. Through donations and purchases, the Library’s collection has grown to nearly 3000 Jewish books, movies, music, and educational materials.
Over the past twenty years, the Library has received ongoing support from the Congregation Etz Chaim Board of Directors, and gifts from members and friends of the synagogue. Among the many organizations that have provided generous contributions are the Ogunquit Summer Congregation, the Leo Lamson Memorial Fund of the Holocaust Human Rights Center of Maine, the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein, the Sam L. Cohen Foundation, and The Mary L. and William J. Osher Foundation.
Hope to see you reading at the Library!