Free Synagogue of Flushing facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Free Synagogue of Flushing |
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The synagogue as seen from Kissena Boulevard and Sanford Avenue
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| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Reform Judaism |
| Ecclesiastical or organisational status | Synagogue |
| Status | Active |
| Location | |
| Location | 41-60 Kissena Boulevard, Flushing, Queens, New York City, New York 11355 |
| Country | United States |
 Location in New York City
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| Architecture | |
| Architect(s) | Maurice Courland |
| Architectural type | Synagogue |
| Architectural style | Neoclassical |
| Date established | 1917 (as a congregation) |
| Completed | 1921 |
| Specifications | |
| Dome(s) | One |
| Materials | Masonry, copper, timber, asphalt |
The Free Synagogue of Flushing is a historic synagogue located in Flushing, New York City. It follows Reform Judaism, a branch of Judaism that adapts traditions to modern life. This synagogue is special because it's based on the "free synagogue" idea. This idea means the synagogue is open to everyone, and its leaders can speak freely. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2009, recognizing its importance.
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A Synagogue for Everyone
The Free Synagogue of Flushing started in 1917. It was founded by the Hebrew Women's Aid Society. They followed the ideas of Rabbi Stephen Samuel Wise, who started the first Free Synagogue in Manhattan.
Rabbi Wise believed in a "free synagogue" for several reasons:
- Its pulpit (where the rabbi speaks) would be free and honest.
- Religious ideas could be explored openly.
- Seating would be open to everyone, not assigned.
- Men and women would have equal roles in the synagogue.
For many years, this synagogue has been a place for new ideas and helping the community. It is the oldest Reform Jewish congregation in the Queens area.
Building a Community
When the synagogue first began, it bought a white house at Kissena Boulevard and Sanford Avenue. This house was a large mansion with pillars. Soon, more and more people joined the synagogue. They decided they needed a bigger building for their services.
During World War I, the Hebrew Women's Aid Society hired an architect named Maurice Courland. He was chosen to design the new synagogue building on Kissena Boulevard.
Early Leaders
In its early years, the synagogue had a few rabbis for short times. One of them was Rabbi Bernard Cantor. He went on a special trip to help Jewish people in Eastern Europe. Sadly, he passed away during this humanitarian work. The synagogue still remembers him each year.
Rabbi Abraham J. Feldman followed Rabbi Cantor. After him came Rabbi Maxwell Silver. In 1922, Rabbi Max Meyer joined the synagogue. He was supposed to be there temporarily, but he ended up staying for 40 years! Rabbi Meyer was very important in helping the Free Synagogue of Flushing grow.
Rabbi Charles Agin came to Flushing in 1958 to help Rabbi Meyer. He quickly became a beloved leader. When Rabbi Meyer retired, Rabbi Agin took over. He served the synagogue for 50 years! During his time, the synagogue expanded. They added a new office building and the Rabbi Max Meyer Religious School. This school helps children aged 6 to 16 learn about Hebrew and their faith.
Recent Events and Community Work
In September 2008, Rabbi Michael Weisser became the new rabbi. He had a special experience earlier in his life. When he was a cantor (a leader of prayer and song) in Nebraska, he faced threats from a group that promoted hatred. Instead of being afraid, Rabbi Weisser reached out to the leader of this group.
Through his kindness and understanding, Rabbi Weisser became friends with this person. He helped him change his views and speak out against hatred. This person even converted to Judaism before he passed away. This amazing story was even made into an opera! Rabbi Weisser retired in 2016.
For 35 years, Steven Pearlston was the synagogue's cantor and music director. He was a professional opera singer. He led the synagogue's choir, which was the only professional choir in a Queens synagogue. The synagogue also has a beautiful organ, which was installed in 1923.
As of August 2022[update], Rabbi Nathan Alfred leads the Free Synagogue of Flushing. Cantor Alan Brava is also a leader and the executive director.
The synagogue is very active in its community. It has programs for young people and adults to learn. It also provides space for different groups, including political and community organizations. The synagogue has always been involved in helping others.
Every year, they celebrate Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday. They also host events where people from different faiths can meet and talk. Since 2020, the synagogue has run a food drive to help people in the area. It also served as a vaccination site during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Synagogue Building
The original white Victorian-style house was moved in 1926. This made space for the larger, main synagogue building we see today. This new building was designed by Maurice Courland. It has a grand entrance with four large Ionic pillars.
Inside, the sanctuary is magnificent. Dark green pillars support the walls, and a huge dome rises above. The building is decorated with Jewish symbols, like a seven-branched menorah outside the doors. The stained glass windows are in the Tiffany style and were made in Czechoslovakia. They fill the sanctuary with beautiful colors.
Above the main doors, a special message is written: "FOR MINE HOUSE SHALL BE CALLED A HOUSE OF PRAYER FOR ALL PEOPLE" (Isaiah 56:7). This shows that the synagogue welcomes everyone.
The stained glass windows show important symbols. These include Noah's Ark, the lions of Judah, and designs of leaves and flowers. The dome ceiling has a smaller stained-glass dome in the center. It features a Star of David and beautiful gold decorations. The synagogue is designed in a "synagogue-in-the-round" style. This makes services feel more personal and connected.
In 1964, a three-story school building was added. This building provides space for the religious school and adult classes. The synagogue is listed on both the New York State and National Register of Historic Places.
From 2009 to 2011, the synagogue building went through a big renovation. New windows were installed. The New York Landmarks Conservancy even gave them an award for restoring the beautiful stained glass windows. In 2011, the synagogue celebrated its new windows with special prayers.
See also
- Stephen Wise Free Synagogue
