CALABASAS : Residents Form 1st Synagogue in City

In response to the growth of the Calabasas Jewish community, residents have organized the town’s first synagogue at a local elementary school.

The synagogue--or shul--will offer orthodox Shabbat services at Bay Laurel Elementary School every Saturday starting Sept. 3, giving many local Jews a place of worship within walking distance.

“On the Sabbath, it’s preferred that we not use mechanical means of transportation,” said Nigel Hamer, one of the founders of the Calabasas Shul. “A lot of us will be able to walk, instead of having to drive to Woodland Hills or Encino.”

Between 1979 and 1993, the Jewish population in Calabasas grew 631% to 5,509 people--faster than in any other part of Los Angeles County, according to figures compiled by the Jewish Federation Council of Greater Los Angeles.

But no Jewish temple or synagogue was ever built in the city, Hamer said.

In Agoura Hills, which has the conservative Temple Beth Haverim, the Jewish population grew 394% during that period.

A Shabbat service held June 18 drew more than 80 people to Bay Laurel Elementary, 24740 Paseo Primario. Another service is scheduled for Saturday.

Traditional Shabbat services begin with a family dinner at home on Friday night, followed by a service at the synagogue, classes and socializing.

“The idea is to be with family and friends, and not to do anything business-wise,” Hamer said. “It is also a tradition to invite someone else to Shabbat, to always have a guest.”