In November 1955, we purchased our first building from the American Legion at Forest Green and officially changed our name to the Harford Jewish Center. In March of 1957, we hired a rabbi for the weekends, and by October of the same year, we acquired our first Torahs and eternal light.
Temple Adas Shalom (Congregation of Peace), was dedicated on September 15, 1968, as the first synagogue in Harford County history. Temple Adas Shalom is a living monument to the sacrifice and commitment of the members who worked so diligently to achieve the realization of a dream of many families. These founding families worked so long and industriously to see the culmination of their dream of a Jewish center in Harford County finally come to fruition.
Our religious, educational and social complex is situated on high ground at the intersection of Route 155 and Earlton Road, Extension in Havre de Grace, Maryland. It overlooks the serene countryside and is centrally located between Harford and Cecil Counties to serve the Jewish community throughout all of Northeast Maryland.
With an early learning center onsite, one of the finest fully inclusive religious schools in our city, and a robust adult education program, our goal is to provide for a lifetime of Jewish learning.
Our main sanctuary was constructed in 1956, and in 2019 we completed an extensive renovation to expand our building. We updated our sanctuary to be a light and airy place for worship that provides a truly awe-inspiring space in which to practice Jewish ritual life.
To be the center of Jewish life and Jewish community in northeast Maryland; to inspire relationships through creative worship services, adult and youth programs, and social action projects; and to make a difference in the lives of our members and those in the community and world around us.
As a congregation rooted in faith, compassion, and a deep commitment to justice and peace, we affirm Israel’s right to exist and to defend itself against acts of aggression. We stand in unwavering solidarity with the people of Israel during this time of challenge and uncertainty, and we also uphold the pursuit of peace for all people in the region, recognizing the humanity and dignity of every individual. We grieve with those who have lost loved ones to violence and terror, and we pray for the healing of all those impacted by conflict. Our hearts are with the innocent civilians, families, and communities who seek nothing more than to live in peace and security. We remain committed to praying for peace and for a future where justice, reconciliation, and coexistence prevail. May our voices and actions reflect our belief in peace that is both secure and just.