In the Beginning
Temple Solel was chartered in March of 1970 with a membership of just 35 families. The synagogue was initially assisted in its formation by the Southeast Regional Director of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations (UAHC), Rabbi Robert P. Frazin. In August of 1971, Rabbi Frazin officially became the rabbi of Solel.
The formation of committees and development of leadership were driven by both Rabbi Frazin and the temple’s founder, Abe Durbin — a visionary committed to building a Reform Jewish presence in the emerging community of Emerald Hills in Hollywood, Florida. Abe was inspired by Temple Beth Sholom in Miami Beach, where he was a longtime member, and wanted to bring a similar spirit to this new congregation.
Temple Solel was established as a liberal Reform congregation with membership in the UAHC (now the Union for Reform Judaism, URJ). The first High Holy Day services were held at the Hillcrest Country Club, where more than 600 people attended. At the conclusion of the services, Professor Robert Katz, alav ha-shalom, famously said, “The temple should franchise.” He turned out to be prophetic — three other Broward County congregations later embraced Solel’s philosophy of liberal Judaism.
A Growing Community
Following Rabbi Frazin’s full-time arrival in 1971, the congregation quickly expanded from 35 to approximately 150 families. Religious school enrollment reached around 250 children by that year’s High Holy Days.
Before the temple had a permanent home, Shabbat services were held in a high school and later in an elementary school. Bar and Bat Mitzvah ceremonies took place at the Emerald Hills Country Club.
Religious School
Religious school classes began with three classrooms in a local high school, but rapid growth required additional space. Midweek Hebrew classes and Confirmation were later held at Sheridan Hills Elementary School.
Temple Solel cultivated a thriving religious education program exceeding B’nai Mitzvah preparation. Its accredited Judaica High School — part of the Orloff Central Agency for Jewish Education — served teens through 12th grade. Under Rabbi Frazin’s guidance, dual enrollment courses with Broward College were also offered to 11th and 12th graders.
Breaking Ground
Three years into the congregation’s journey, Abe Durbin declared, “Now we are going to build a building.” He led the land acquisition, financing, and construction efforts. While the building was underway, temple offices operated first from a model apartment and then from a trailer located on the 2.2-acre site.
Architect David Novick designed the synagogue in memory of his father. The building was dedicated in 1975 at 5100 Sheridan Street, and has since undergone three expansions, largely funded through the dedication and leadership of Rabbi Frazin.
Membership Growth
Temple Solel became a prominent voice in the civic and Jewish life of Hollywood, eventually reaching a membership of 730 families. The preschool — initiated by the Ganon family and Penny Frazin, aleha ha-shalom — earned the Gold Seal of Excellence and has remained a beloved part of the community.
As the congregation grew, Temple Beth Shalom, a nearby Conservative synagogue, ceased operating, and many of its families joined Temple Solel. Some of those families remain members to this day.
Throughout its history, the temple has benefited from a dedicated team of clergy and professionals, including two senior rabbis, three assistant rabbis, three full-time cantors, four religious school directors, three early childhood directors, and six executive directors. Cantor Israel Rosen, our current cantor, has faithfully served Temple Solel since 1984.
Extra, Extra!
Temple Solel has had 21 presidents to date, many of whom grew up within the congregation and chose to return as leaders of the Solel community.
The temple helped establish the Interfaith Council of Greater Hollywood and the Broward Outreach Center for the homeless, and has remained actively engaged in strengthening and supporting the broader community.
In 1987, Temple Solel began offering professional in-house catering. Artisan Foods quickly earned a strong reputation, making Solel a sought-after venue for lifecycle celebrations throughout South Florida.
The congregation eventually transitioned from identifying as “liberal Reform” to simply “Reform,” to better reflect how the term is understood in the modern Jewish world.
Temple Solel’s Introduction to Judaism program, taught by the rabbi, continues to inspire and welcome Jews by Choice, strengthening the vibrant and diverse “Family of Solel.”
A Renewed Path Forward
In 2020, Temple Solel welcomed Rabbi Ari Plost as its spiritual leader. Originally from Maryland, Rabbi Plost arrived during one of the most challenging periods in modern history — the height of the pandemic — yet immediately brought renewed hope, energy, and connection to our community.
Rabbi Plost has led Temple Solel onto a path of meaningful growth and inclusion. He is deeply committed to making Judaism accessible and engaging for all ages, backgrounds, and life journeys. Under his guidance, the congregation has reversed years of declining membership, expanded community engagement, and re-centered Temple Solel as a spiritual home where people feel seen, valued, and inspired.
His empathetic leadership, strong Jewish voice, and passion for tikkun olam have strengthened Solel’s presence both inside the sanctuary and throughout the Hollywood community. Rabbi Plost and his family are cherished members of the Solel family, actively contributing to our lifecycle moments, educational programs, holiday celebrations, and social justice initiatives.
As we look toward the future, Temple Solel continues to honor its legacy while embracing the opportunities ahead — guided by Rabbi Plost’s vision and supported by a committed congregation that truly embodies our name: Solel — The Pathfinder.
