Congregation Beth Israel was founded in 1858, when Oregon was still at the end of the Oregon Territory. It is one of the largest reform congregations in Oregon and includes more than 850 families representing more than 2,500 people. The congregation operates a religious school that begins in kindergarten and continues through grade 12. Children benefit from a complete Judaic education that includes Bible, commentaries, ethics, holidays, history, Israel and life cycle studies. It also offers adult education, adult B nai Mitzvah, introduction to Judaism seminar and Talmund and Torah study. A variety of programs for women, youth and children are offered as well. Congregation Beth Israel is based in Portland, Ore.