Meet
Beth Tikvah
Our Story
A Legacy of Faith, Community, and Growth
Since its founding in 1961, Congregation Beth Tikvah has been a cornerstone of Jewish life in Greater Columbus. From a modest beginning with just 34 families, we have grown into a vibrant Reform Jewish congregation that welcomes
individuals and families from all walks of life.
Congregation Beth Tikvah transcends the ordinary because we are more than a place of worship. We are a movement pulsating with the rhythm of ancient wisdom and a fresh beat. Picture a space where tradition harmonizes with innovation, where every individual isn’t just welcomed but celebrated. In this vibrant community, rituals aren’t routines but living expressions of your unique spirituality. Beth Tikvah isn’t a stagnant synagogue; it’s a dynamic force, breathing new life into traditions, making them relevant, meaningful, and enchanting.
Guided by the enduring principles of Reform Judaism, Beth Tikvah is dedicated to fostering a deep connection to Judaism through communal worship, study, and acts of Tikkun Olam (repairing the world). Our synagogue serves as a home for spiritual growth, intellectual exploration, and cultural celebration, creating a community where everyone belongs.
A Community with Purpose
At Beth Tikvah, our values are rooted in Jewish tradition
Limud
לימוד
Fostering a love of learning at every stage of life.
Masa
מסע
Supporting individual Jewish journeys through meaningful experiences.
Ruchaniyut
רוחניות
Nurturing spiritual and intellectual growth.
Hevruta
חברותא
Building lasting connections within our community.
Kehillah
קהילה
Providing care and support for our congregational family.
Tikkun Olam
תיקון עולם
Engaging in acts of social justice and repairing the world.
Our Journey Through Time
A group of Jewish families on Columbus’s North Side began meeting at The Ohio State University Hillel, forming what would later become Beth Tikvah. Their shared vision was a synagogue that embraced both tradition and innovation.
Beth Tikvah held its first High Holy Day services at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the community’s story.
The congregation celebrated the dedication of its first Torah, the founding of the Sisterhood, and the publication of the inaugural issue of Tikvah Topics—a newsletter that continues to connect and inform members today.
To accommodate its growing membership, Beth Tikvah moved to its second home at 3199 Indianola Avenue. This period was marked by increased engagement in religious education, social programming, and community outreach.
The congregation established a dedicated cemetery section at Greenlawn Cemetery, providing a sacred space for members to honor their loved ones.
Thanks to the generosity of the Resler family, Beth Tikvah built its permanent home in Worthington on Olentangy River Road. This new facility allowed the congregation to expand its programs and deepen its roots in the community.
In July of 1983, Congregation Beth Tikvah welcomed Rabbi Gary Huber as Senior Rabbi, whose leadership and dedication enriched our community until his transition to Rabbi Emeritus.
Responding to the growing needs of the congregation, Beth Tikvah underwent a major expansion, adding classrooms and gathering spaces to foster education and connection.
The congregation introduced the Resler Scholar Weekend, an annual event bringing prominent Jewish scholars to Beth Tikvah to inspire learning and dialogue.
Congregation Beth Tikvah welcomed Rabbi Rick Kellner as Senior Rabbi, bringing his passion for Jewish learning, community building, and spiritual leadership to our congregation.
A second major renovation modernized the synagogue’s facilities, creating welcoming spaces for worship, study, and celebration.
JCC North Preschool began its first year at the Worthington location in January 2017.
Exciting new addition of Assistant Rabbi Karen Martin in July of 2025!
Today & Beyond
As we celebrate more than 60 years of history, Beth Tikvah continues to thrive as a center of Jewish life in Worthington, Ohio.
From our vibrant religious school to our innovative programs for members of all ages, we are proud to be a congregation that cherishes its heritage while embracing the future.
1965 Beth Tikvah Confirmation Class
Beth Tikvah’s story is still being written, and we invite you to be part of our next chapter.
Together, we can continue to build a welcoming, dynamic, and compassionate Jewish community.
At Beth Tikvah, being part of our family means not only finding spiritual fulfillment but also making a difference—your life intertwined with the vibrant tapestry of our collective Jewish journey.