About Congregation Beth Israel | Beth Israel Family Relocation Program


Congregation Beth Israel was founded in 1868. We’ve seen a lot of changes in our town and within the congregation. In 1964, our current synagogue (57th Ct. and 14th Ave.) was constructed. In 2005, David Goldstein, Rabbi Emeritus from Touro torah Synagogue in New Orleans, joined our congregation as the Rabbi. We also have a very dynamic Sisterhood, which seeks to remain active and relevant around Meridian. Congregation Beth Israel houses a Family Growth Services Group, which seeks to sustain and advance the reach and contributions of the Jewish community within Meridian. Our synagogue follows the Reform movement of Judaism and our practices are steeped in nearly 150 years of Jewish history in our town. Beth Israel is directed by an unwavering commitment to tikkun olam, which is the Hebrew phrase for “perfecting the world.” Through our Family Relocation Program, our congregation will work with Jewish families looking to relocate to the Meridian area. Beginning in January 2010, we will provide grants for up to $25,000 for families qualifying for this relocation program.

Beth Israel Family Relocation Program
Beth Israel Family Relocation Program’s mission and criteria are as follows:
  • We seek Jewish families who intend to relocate and positively contribute to Meridian for a minimum of five years.
  • Each application will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, to help select the most ideal families to participate in the program.
  • Grants are available to those who qualify, to potentially assist with the following:

  1. Relocation – moving and settling
  2. Housing
  3. Congregation Beth Israel membership
  4. Repaying outstanding educational loans
  5. Small business seed moneyQualification Standards –To qualify, a candidate must:

  1. Submit written grant request
  2. Undergo background and credit checks
  3. Provide written personal and rabbinical references
  4. Travel to Meridian to meet Congregation Beth Israel members

Note: Congregation Beth Israel is a small Synagogue with limited resources, so priority will be given to those families who already live in the United States.