Temple Beth Zion was founded as an Orthodox congregation in 1850. During the 1860s, the temple was influenced by the Union for Reform Judaism American Hebrew Congregations, the national organization serving the Reform Jewish movement, which sought to create and sustain vibrant Jewish congregations and the original members merged the temple into this reform movement. By June 1885 the temple had officially changed its orientation to Reform.

Temple Beth Zion is the second-oldest synagogue of Buffalo and one of the oldest reform congregations in the United States. At earlier times in its history, the Temple Beth Zion has been located at Niagara Street Methodist Episcopal Church (between Pearl Street and Franklin Street until 1886), 599 Delaware Avenue (1890-1961), and 805 Delaware Avenue in Buffalo (current).

Brotherhood of Temple Beth Zion is one of the oldest brotherhoods in the country. It was formed as the Men's Temple Club in 1915 and the first president was Eugene Warner. Later the name changed to the Men's Club of Temple Beth Zion, and in 1970, when Paul Borins was president, the name changed again to the Brotherhood of Temple Beth Zion. A key purpose of the organization is cooperating with Temple Beth Zion in Jewish religious activities and supporting ushers for temple services, in order to foster cultural and educational advancement for the members. Any temple member over 18 years of age is eligible for Brotherhood membership. Annually, its installation service for incoming new officers and board members and Man of The Year award ceremony takes place in May.

Sisterhood of Temple Beth Zion was formed 1910 and the first president was Alene Arbesma. It remains open to women of all ages and interests and operates through monthly board and general meetings. Sisterhood helps to operate temple services, running programs and events including its nursery and religious schools, gift shop, and fund-raising activities. Sisterhood members connect spiritually, culturally, and intellectually through their membership experience. Being a member of Sisterhood, the member is not only supporting her own congregation, but also becomes a member of National Federation of Temple Sisterhoods.

There were more than 42 committees in the Sisterhood from 1960 to 1980. During 1977, Sisterhood reached the peak of its membership, as more than 500 members registered and became involved with various community action and advocacy programs to help handicapped people and minority groups.