Beth Israel Synagogue (New Haven, Connecticut) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Beth Israel Synagogue |
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The synagogue building, in 2008
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| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Orthodox Judaism |
| Ecclesiastical or organisational status | Synagogue |
| Leadership | Rabbi Mendy Hecht |
| Status | Active |
| Location | |
| Location | 232 Orchard Street, New Haven, Connecticut |
| Country | United States |
 Location in Connecticut
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| Architecture | |
| Architect(s) | Louis Abramowitz |
| Architectural type | Synagogue architecture |
| Architectural style | Colonial Revival |
| General contractor | C. Abbadessa |
| Date established | 1913 (as a congregation) |
| Completed | 1925 |
Congregation Beth Israel, also called the Orchard Street Shul, is a special Jewish place of worship called a synagogue. It follows Orthodox Judaism, which is a branch of the Jewish faith. You can find it at 232 Orchard Street in New Haven, Connecticut, USA. This synagogue building is so important that it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's recognized as a significant historical site.
Contents
History of the Orchard Street Shul
How the Congregation Started
The Beth Israel congregation began in 1913. It was formed by Jewish families who had become successful. They moved from their first neighborhood to a new area around upper Oak Street and Winthrop Avenue. At first, they met in rented spaces.
Building the Synagogue
In 1915, the group moved into a house they had remodeled at 147 Orchard Street. A few years later, in 1923, they bought a piece of land at 232 Orchard Street. They paid $12,000 for it, which would be about $210,000 today. The current synagogue building was finished in 1925. Louis Abramowitz was the architect who designed it, and C. Abbadessa was the builder. The building was designed in the Colonial Revival style.
Saving the Synagogue
By the late 1900s, many of the synagogue members were older. Also, many Jewish families had moved to other parts of the city. This made the future of the synagogue uncertain. But people wanted to save it! The Cultural Heritage Artists Project helped organize efforts to preserve the building.
A New Beginning
Thanks to these efforts, the synagogue started having regular weekly services again in 2011. Rabbi Mendy Hecht became the leader. His grandfather, Rabbi Maurice I. Hecht, had been the rabbi there for 45 years. His father, Rabbi Sheya Hecht, also served as a rabbi at the synagogue. In 1995, the synagogue was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Services at the Synagogue Today
Restoring the Building
The historic building of the Orchard Street Shul was carefully restored in 2012. This made sure it would be ready for many more years of use.
Weekly and Holiday Services
Today, traditional Shabbat services are held every Saturday morning at 9:30 AM. Shabbat is the Jewish day of rest. Services are also held on all Jewish holidays. You don't need to buy tickets or be a member to attend the High Holiday services. Everyone is welcome!
See also
