Our History, Our Values, Our Future
Temple Sholom’s story is one of vision, courage, and a deep commitment to Jewish life. Since our founding in 1954, we have grown into a vibrant, inclusive Reform Jewish community rooted in tradition and continually evolving to meet the needs of each new generation.
Our founders imagined a congregation that would honor Jewish tradition while embracing meaningful participation, accessible learning, and a strong sense of community. More than seven decades later, that vision continues to guide us as we create a welcoming home where every person can find connection, purpose, and belonging.
Building a Spiritual Home
Temple Sholom began with a group of families who established a new liberal congregation in Cincinnati’s northern suburbs. With the support of the wider Jewish community, our early members built a foundation for a congregation that valued Hebrew, prayer, music, education, and active participation in Jewish life.
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Our first gatherings took place in temporary locations, including a former church in Roselawn and Hebrew Union College. Determined to establish a permanent home, our congregation purchased land in Amberley Village, dedicated Frisch Hall in 1958, and completed its main sanctuary in 1967.
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In 2016, Temple Sholom entered a new chapter, relocating to our current home off Kenwood Road in Blue Ash. This move represented more than a change of address. It reflected our commitment to creating a welcoming, accessible, and forward-looking Jewish community for generations to come.
A Legacy of Rabbinic Leadership
Each generation of Temple Sholom’s rabbinic leadership has helped shape who we are today, bringing new ideas, deepening our traditions, and strengthening our commitment to Jewish learning, social responsibility, and inclusion.
Rabbi Stanley R. Brav (1954–1972)
Our founding rabbi established the spiritual and educational foundations of Temple Sholom, emphasizing Hebrew education, adult learning, and social action.
​Rabbi Donald M. Splansky (1971–1984)
Rabbi Splansky strengthened youth programming, encouraged Jewish summer camp experiences, deepened connections with Israel, and championed greater opportunities for young women in Jewish ritual life.
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Rabbi Gerry H. Walter (1984–2010)
Rabbi Walter helped shape the congregation’s distinctive expression of Reform Judaism, strengthening religious observance and the role of Shabbat in congregational life.
Rabbi Miriam Terlinchamp (2010–2023)
Rabbi Terlinchamp brought creativity and innovation to Jewish engagement, using digital storytelling to share Jewish values and expanding the congregation’s commitment to justice through multifaith organizing and community activism.
Rabbi Ari Jun (2025–present)
Rabbi Jun continues Temple Sholom’s tradition of warm, inclusive Jewish leadership. Drawing on his experience as a community organizer, he champions Jewish advocacy, combats antisemitism, fosters interfaith dialogue, and builds meaningful connections across generations.
Learning, Justice, and Innovation
From the beginning, Temple Sholom has believed that Jewish life is enriched through lifelong learning, thoughtful questioning, and putting Jewish values into action.
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Our educational tradition has embraced a wide range of approaches, from small-group study and adult education to innovative programs that help individuals and families connect Jewish wisdom with their everyday lives. We continue to create opportunities for learners of every age and background to explore their Jewish identities and discover new ways to participate in Jewish life.
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Our commitment to justice and inclusion is equally central to our story. We have worked to create a community where LGBTQIA+ individuals and families are welcomed, multifaith households find meaningful connections, and people from different backgrounds can build relationships grounded in shared values.
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Today, our work extends beyond our walls through multifaith partnerships, racial justice organizing, Jewish advocacy, and service to our neighbors. We understand tikkun olam, repairing the world, as an ongoing responsibility to help create a more just and compassionate society.
Rooted in Tradition.
Open to the Future.
Temple Sholom’s history is not simply a record of where we have been. It is a reflection of the values that continue to move us forward.
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We honor the vision of our founders while welcoming new voices, new ideas, and new generations into our community. Through worship, music, education, meaningful relationships, and a shared commitment to justice, we continue to shape a Judaism that is relevant, accessible, and deeply connected to the world around us.
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From our home in Blue Ash, we remain committed to a simple but powerful belief: Jewish life thrives when every person has a place to belong, opportunities to grow, and the chance to make a difference.
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Our history grounds us. Our values guide us.
Together, we are building the future of Temple Sholom.