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 known as the Orchard Street Shul, is an Orthodox Jewish synagogue located in New Haven, Connecticut. It's a special place for Jewish people to gather and worship. The building itself is quite old and is even listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which means it's an important historical site.
History of Beth Israel Synagogue
The Beth Israel congregation started in 1913. It was formed by Jewish families who had done well enough to move to a new part of New Haven. At first, they met in rented spaces.
In 1915, the congregation moved into a house they had fixed up at 147 Orchard Street. A few years later, in 1923, they bought a piece of land at 232 Orchard Street for $12,000. This money would be worth a lot more today!
They built the current synagogue building there in 1925. The architect who designed it was Louis Abramowitz. The builder was C. Abbadessa. The building was made in a style called Colonial Revival.
By the late 1900s, many Jewish families had moved out of the city. The synagogue's future was uncertain. However, people worked hard to save it. The Cultural Heritage Artists Project helped with these efforts.
In 2011, the synagogue started holding regular weekly services again. This happened under the leadership of Rabbi Mendy Hecht. His grandfather, Rabbi Maurice I. Hecht, was a rabbi at the synagogue for 45 years. His father, Rabbi Sheya Hecht, also served there.
Because of its importance, the synagogue was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1995.
What Happens at the Synagogue Today?
The Orchard Street Shul was carefully restored in 2012. Today, it is an active place of worship.
- Traditional Shabbat services are held every Saturday morning at 9:30 AM.
- Services are also held on all Jewish holidays.
- You don't need tickets or a membership to attend the High Holiday services. Everyone is welcome!
See also
