Temple Beth Shalom, home of the Sandhills Jewish Congregation in Foxfire Village, experienced a flood in July. Although not of Biblical proportions, it caused substantial damage.

Built in 2002 this temple is the center of religious life for about 160 Jews in the Pinehurst area. Unfortunately when the congregation met for Sabbath services Friday, July 17, they stepped into a very wet building. The congregants were unaware that a pipe had burst sometime before July 17.

Water totally destroyed all the carpeting and subflooring in the sanctuary and classrooms. All the duct work, insulation, and some drywalls were destroyed. Water had damaged areas in the kitchen, rabbi's office, and one bathroom.

Rabbi Floyd Herman, who comes in from Baltimore, Md., conducted a brief service that evening, but it was clear that the building would be closed until all repairs could be made. Religious school and Torah study were cancelled.

Fortunately the Torah scrolls, prayer books, and other sacred items were salvaged. Important material from the rabbi's study was saved.

Due to the extensive damage, Temple Beth Shalom will be closed about three months. President Mindy Fineman is contacting various churches where services will be held temporarily. Throughout the year, Sabbath services are held on the third Friday of each month.

However, having the temple closed during September is especially difficult. According to the Jewish calendar this September two important holidays are celebrated: Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, and Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. These are the High Holidays, the most observed days in Jewish life.

Next month is when children's religious school reconvenes. Fortunately, Assembly Hall in Pinehurst Village has offered to house the Sunday school for the next few months.

"The Sandhills Jewish Congregation wishes to thank Sheldon Rappaport who has taken charge to assess the damage, deal with insurance, and work with repair crews," says a spokesman. "Although insurance will cover most of the restoration, a shortfall is expected. The congregation anticipates holding fundraising events in the coming months."