Beth Emeth Congregation of The West Valley, 13702 W. Meeker Blvd., held a Sept. 8 open house ice cream social, which was attended by several people visiting the synagogue in Sun City West.

Those in attendance had the opportunity to become members of the congregation and to purchase tickets for the High Holy Days, which take place in early October. Tours of the synagogue were given and the history of the synagogue was shared, including the artist who designed the stained-glass windows that adorn Beth Emeth throughout the building.

Beth Emeth Spiritual Leader Hazzan Lev Ettelson spoke at the event and led everyone in a special prayer for the discovery of six hostages taken in last October’s terror attack in Israel. They were recently found deceased by Israeli armed forces in Gaza. After the special prayer, Ettelson led everyone in singing the Israeli national anthem, Hatikvah.

During his speech at the event, Ettelson also explained all that is done at Beth Emeth and at the end of the open house attendees were treated to ice cream and a variety of toppings.