The origins of what would become Congregation Har El can be traced to the determined efforts of a number of Jewish residents of the North Shore during the middle of the last century. The community became more formally established following an open meeting in the 1970's, and by 1981 the landmark figure of 100 member families was reached.

In 1984, Har El moved to a semi-permanent home in a rented premises on Inglewood Avenue in West Vancouver. Religious services and the community's social activities were held there until 1997, when Har El moved into its permanent home on Taylor Way.

Our building, which was designed by Mark Ostry of the architectural firm of Acton, Johnson, Ostry, won the Lieutenant-Governor of British Columbia Award of Excellence and the Ron Thom Wood Design Award. The facilities include a beautiful sanctuary, fully-equipped kitchen, library, and social halls. Congregation Har El is also home to the North Shore Hebrew School.

Har El's membership continues to increase. Please click on MEMBERSHIP for information about joining our community, and the benefits of membership.