Two Temples Set to Merge

Consolidation in the local Catholic diocese has been well documented, but it is also happening in other faiths. Tonight the final services will be held at Temple Beth El, on Eggert Road in Tonawanda, one of the oldest Jewish temples in Western New York. Temple Beth El was founded in downtown Buffalo 161 years ago, and for years had a building on Richmond Avenue before moving to the suburbs. Temple Beth El will be merging with another suburban synagogue, Temple Shaarey Zedek, in Amherst. The number of member families has been declining over the years.