RIDGEFIELD – In the wake of their merger this past summer, Temple Shearith Israel of Ridgefield and Jewish Family Congregation (JFC), formerly of South Salem, N.Y., have been renamed Congregation Shir Shalom, it was announced recently by the congregation’s leadership. “Shir Shalom” means “Song of Peace.” The merged synagogue is located at the former home of Temple Shearith Israel at 46 Peaceable Street in Ridgefield.

Rabbi David Reiner, Rabbi Marcus Burstein and Cantor Deborah Katchko-Gray are serving as Congregation Shir Shalom clergy, along with Rabbi Emeritus Jon Haddon.

“Our two Reform synagogues have united as one strong congregation to serve Jewish families for generations to come,” said Reiner.

Under the guidance of the Union for Reform Judaism, congregational votes were held in May, at which both synagogues overwhelmingly voted “yes” to a joint union. This summer, religious schools were combined under the direction of Leslie Gottlieb, and JFC moved much of its paperwork, artifacts and Judaica into the Ridgefield building. Additionally, the early childhood center, a preschool that has served young children for more than 15 years, moved into the Ridgefield facility under the continued direction of Jane Emmer. The leaders of the two synagogues have been working for months with several committees and key personnel to ensure a smooth transition.

“Our new name means so much more than just the combination of two synagogues,” the congregation’s co-president Gale Berman said. “Joining the two congregations provides an opportunity to establish a stronger, more robust and more sustainable Jewish community in the area. Our new name represents a new beginning for both congregations, and reflects the values of Jewish tradition that we all share.”

The full name, “Congregation Shir Shalom of Westchester and Fairfield Counties,” was chosen by a 14-member committee representing each legacy synagogue.

“The spirit of what is taking place is phenomenal,” said Burstein. “Sharing our first High Holiday services together was truly a joyful experience. We came together as a new community in worship and friendship, and the sanctuary was filled with music and spirit. Our future is bright and exciting.”

CAP: Congregation Shir Shalom in Ridgefield