So it was that in 1964, when Sun City was already a burgeoning community with a significant number of Jewish residents, that 12 people gathered at the home of Sam and Stella Levy and formed the Jewish Congregation of Sun City.

Obviously it was an idea whose time had come. Within six months, by April of 1965, the Congregation had grown to 55 members. Regular Conservative services were being held at various recreation centers and churches. This brought about a new realization: the Congregation needed a home of its own. In October 1965, the Building Fund was established.

Over the years, the Building Fund was the prime focus of all fund-raising efforts. A Sisterhood and Men's Club were formed and its activities have been invaluable in augmenting this ever-growing fund. Not forgetting its civic commitment, Sisterhood was also active in fund-raising efforts for Boswell Hospital.

During the administration of President Arthur Leist, a Land Committee was formed and in 1984, a beautiful three-acre tract of land was purchased in Sun City West.

A congregant, the noted artist, Max Gimpel, rendered the design of the building and created all the religious appointments. The Building Chairman, Saul Fidelman, an engineer by profession, supervised the construction. The result is the splendid edifice we have today.

The synagogue was dedicated in May 1987 during the presidency of Gladys Burstiner. With a home of its own at long last, the Congregation can further its commitment of religious, educational, social and cultural services to the Jewish and Sun Cities communities. In 2001 the final mortgage commitment was met and the Synagogue building became debt free. There is no longer a building fund.

Since its inception the Congregation has undergone two name changes. Today, the Congregation is known as Beth Emeth Congregation of the Sun Cities and West Valley. The Congregation presently serves congregants in Avondale, Goodyear, Litchfield, Peoria, Sun Cities, Surprise, and several other areas of the West Valley. The name changes have been a reflection of the increased population throughout the West Valley.

As you arrive at our Synagogue be sure to take a stroll through the Gertrude and Joseph Burdoo Biblical Garden which is an integral part of the Synagogue landscape. Designed by Max Gimpel, a member of our Congregation, the garden contains specimens of plant material mentioned in the Bible that grow well in the low desert environment. Each specimen is clearly marked with the name of the plant and a cited quotation from the Bible referring to the plant. In addition, walkways, benches, a sundial and fountain compliment the custom Judaic artwork located throughout the garden.

Beth Emeth Congregation invites you to find comfort in our garden. Treat yourself to a few moments sitting on a bench near the gurgling fountain. Watch the playful hummingbirds frolic nearby. The Garden is tranquil in design and in harmony with its natural surroundings. It is a quiet haven in which to find solace and to rejoice in life.

See you in the garden!