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==History==
==History==
{{more references|section|date=January 2024}}
[[File:600 Columbus Ave Boston.jpg|thumb|600 Columbus Ave. (1885–1906)]][[File:602 Comm Ave Boston.jpg|thumb|602 Commonwealth Ave. (1906–1926)]][[File:Temple Israel Boston 2.jpg|thumb|477 Longwood Ave. (1926–present)]]
[[File:600 Columbus Ave Boston.jpg|thumb|600 Columbus Ave. (1885–1906)]][[File:602 Comm Ave Boston.jpg|thumb|602 Commonwealth Ave. (1906–1926)]][[File:Temple Israel Boston 2.jpg|thumb|477 Longwood Ave. (1926–present)]]
The congregation Temple Israel, originally known as '''Adath Israel''', was founded in 1854 when [[History of the Jews in Germany|Jews of German ancestry]] seceded from [[Temple Ohabei Shalom (Brookline, Massachusetts)|Ohabei Shalom]], then the sole synagogue in Boston, because so many [[History of the Jews in Poland|Polish Jews]] had joined the congregation.<ref name=Sarna>{{cite book |title=The Jews of Boston |editor1=Sarna, Jonathan D. |editor2=Smith, Ellen |location=Boston |publisher=Northeastern University Press |year=1995 |isbn=1555532179 }}</ref>{{rp|169}} The congregation immediately renovated a house on [[Pleasant Street (Boston)|Pleasant Street]] for use as a synagogue. The congregation purchased land in [[Wakefield, Massachusetts|Wakefield]] in 1859 for [[Temple Israel Cemetery (Wakefield, Massachusetts)|a cemetery]].<ref name=Sarna/>{{rp|170}} The Columbus Avenue synagogue building, designed by architects [[Louis Weissbein|Weissbein & Jones]], was dedicated in 1885 and was indicative of the growing size and wealth of congregation, and the influence of its members and leaders. The Auxiliary Society was founded in 1894, the first internal temple organization dedicated to social service, cultural activity, education, and social functions.
The congregation Temple Israel, originally known as '''Adath Israel''',<ref>{{Cite web |title=Temple Israel of Boston |url=/proxy/https://hwpi.harvard.edu/pluralismarchive/temple-israel-boston |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=hwpi.harvard.edu |language=en}}</ref> was founded in 1854 when [[History of the Jews in Germany|Jews of German ancestry]] seceded from [[Temple Ohabei Shalom (Brookline, Massachusetts)|Ohabei Shalom]], then the sole synagogue in Boston, because so many [[History of the Jews in Poland|Polish Jews]] had joined the congregation.<ref name=Sarna>{{cite book |title=The Jews of Boston |editor1=Sarna, Jonathan D. |editor2=Smith, Ellen |location=Boston |publisher=Northeastern University Press |year=1995 |isbn=1555532179 }}</ref>{{rp|169}} The congregation immediately renovated a house on [[Pleasant Street (Boston)|Pleasant Street]] for use as a synagogue. The congregation purchased land in [[Wakefield, Massachusetts|Wakefield]] in 1859 for [[Temple Israel Cemetery (Wakefield, Massachusetts)|a cemetery]].<ref name=Sarna/>{{rp|170}} The Columbus Avenue synagogue building, designed by architects [[Louis Weissbein|Weissbein & Jones]], was dedicated in 1885 and was indicative of the growing size and wealth of congregation, and the influence of its members and leaders. The Auxiliary Society was founded in 1894, the first internal temple organization dedicated to social service, cultural activity, education, and social functions.


The Commonwealth Avenue Temple, designed by [[Clarence H. Blackall|Clarence Blackall]], was dedicated in 1907.<!-- Same sentence as above and lacks citation. "Attended by prominent Jewish and political leaders, the dedication of the new temple building demonstrates the growing size of the congregation, as well as the rising influence of its members and leaders in the community." --> Rabbi Harry Levi, who served as rabbi from 1911 to 1939, led to changes within the religious school by implementing new policies such as paying teachers, establishing branch schools, and refocusing the curriculum on more traditional Jewish subjects. He officiated at the first congregational [[Seder]], held in 1913. Abram Vossen Goodman stated, "For the first time we liberal Jews indicated that we wanted to participate in old Pesach traditions with our own version." This seder was the first to follow the Reform-sponsored ''Union Haggadah''. Rabbi Levi commenced radio broadcasts of sermons in 1924 and launched a new era of interfaith educational efforts by taking advantage of Levi's "genius for selling Judaism to Christians," his speaking ability, and advances in radio technology led to his being known as the "Radio Rabbi."{{cn|date=January 2024}}
The Commonwealth Avenue Temple, designed by [[Clarence H. Blackall|Clarence Blackall]], was dedicated in 1907.<!-- Same sentence as above and lacks citation. "Attended by prominent Jewish and political leaders, the dedication of the new temple building demonstrates the growing size of the congregation, as well as the rising influence of its members and leaders in the community." --> Rabbi Harry Levi, who served as rabbi from 1911 to 1939, led to changes within the religious school by implementing new policies such as paying teachers, establishing branch schools, and refocusing the curriculum on more traditional Jewish subjects. He officiated at the first congregational [[Seder]], held in 1913. Abram Vossen Goodman stated, "For the first time we liberal Jews indicated that we wanted to participate in old Pesach traditions with our own version." This seder was the first to follow the Reform-sponsored ''Union Haggadah''. Rabbi Levi commenced radio broadcasts of sermons in 1924, which led to his being known as the "Radio Rabbi."<ref>{{Cite web |title=Some John Shepard History |url=/proxy/https://www.bostonradio.org/essays/shepard |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=www.bostonradio.org |quote=WNAC was the first station in Boston to offer live broadcasts of synagogue services, beginning January 20, 1924; Rabbi Harry Levi, “the Radio Rabbi”, becomes the first rabbi to use broadcasting as a way of teaching tolerance and educating the public about what Jews believe. He becomes so popular that two books of his radio sermons are issued.}}</ref>


With his installation in 1954, Rabbi [[Roland B. Gittelsohn|Gittelsohn]]—the first Jewish chaplain of the [[United States Marine Corps|United States Marine Corps—]]<nowiki/>brought a new commitment to social action to Temple Israel during his tenure.<ref>{{Cite web |title=December 13: Rabbi Roland B. Gittelsohn |url=/proxy/https://jewishcurrents.org/december-13-rabbi-roland-b-gittelsohn |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=Jewish Currents |language=en}}</ref> During his time as the rabbi of Temple Israel, the congregation started the Boston Ruleville Interfaith Committee (BRIC) in 1959.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Our Story |url=/proxy/https://www.tisrael.org/who-we-are/our-story/ |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=Temple Israel of Boston |language=en}}</ref> In April 1965, during a visit to Boston, [[Martin Luther King Jr.]] visited Temple Israel and spoke at their Passover event.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The day Dr. King visited Boston Common in 1965 – The Bay State Banner |url=/proxy/https://baystatebanner.com/2012/01/10/the-day-dr-king-visited-boston-common-in-1965-3/ |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=baystatebanner.com}}</ref>
The building of a new meeting house in Longwood Avenue between 1923 and 1927 represented the congregation's commitment to Jewish education, social and cultural activities, and its growing membership.<!-- Same sentence as above and lacks citation -->{{cn|date=January 2024}}


⚫
Murray Simon was installed as the Temple's first cantor in 1972 and in the following year, a new [[sanctuary]] was completed as part of the expanded Riverway campus, with a commissioned sculpture by [[Louise Nevelson]], called ''Sky Covenant'', placed at the synagogue's entrance.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sky Covenant, (sculpture). |url=/proxy/https://siris-artinventories.si.edu/ipac20/ipac.jsp?&profile=all&source=~!siartinventories&uri=full=3100001~!305734~!0 |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=siris-artinventories.si.edu}}</ref>
With his installation in 1954, Rabbi Gittelsohn brought a new commitment to social action to Temple Israel during his tenure. Some important projects included the Boston Ruleville Interfaith Committee (BRIC), and Rev. Martin Luther King's visit to Boston in 1965. Israel Week/Expo Israel celebrations were held between 1969 and 1971 and demonstrated Temple Israel's new connection with Israel, its heritage, and its current political plight.{{cn|date=January 2024}}


⚫
In 2004 the congregation celebrated its 150th anniversary, and after Massachusetts became the first U. S. state to legalize gay marriage, gay marriage ceremonies were held at the synagogue.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Schwartz |first=Penny |date=May 10, 2014 |title=Massachusetts Jews reflect on a decade of same-sex marriage |url=/proxy/https://www.timesofisrael.com/massachusetts-jews-reflect-on-a-decade-of-marriage-equality/ |work=The Times of Israel}}</ref>
⚫
Installation of Murray Simon was installed as the Temple's first cantor in 1972; and the following year, a new [[sanctuary]] was completed as part of the expanded Riverway campus, with a commissioned sculpture by [[Louise Nevelson]], called ''Sky Covenant'', placed at the synagogue's entrance.{{cn|date=January 2024}}


⚫
Rabbi [[Elaine Zecher]] was elected as the senior rabbi of the congregation in 2016, the first woman to hold that post.<ref>{{Cite web |title=A Leader Among Men |url=/proxy/https://www.brandeis.edu/magazine/2017/winter/class-notes/alumni-profiles/zecher.html |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=Brandeis Magazine |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sweeney |first=Chris |date=2017-12-05 |title=Elaine Zecher, Talk of the Temple |url=https://www.bostonmagazine.com/news/2017/12/05/rabbi-elaine-zecher/ |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=Boston Magazine |language=en-US}}</ref> She succeeded Rabbi Ronne Friedman, who had become the senior rabbi in 1999, who had in turn succeeded Rabbi Bernard Mehlman.<ref>{{cite web |title=Our Rabbis & Cantor |url=/proxy/http://www.tisrael.org/our-rabbis-cantor/ |access-date=20 October 2016 |website=Temple Israel website}}</ref> The first female cantor was appointed in 2020: Alicia Stillman succeeded Roy Einhorn, who became emeritus after 27 years.
⚫
In 2004 the congregation celebrated its 150th anniversary, and after Massachusetts became the first U. S. state to legalize gay marriage, gay marriage ceremonies are held at the synagogue.{{cn|date=January 2024}}


⚫
==Community life==
⚫
Rabbi Elaine Zecher was elected as the senior rabbi of the congregation in 2016, the first woman to hold that post. She had served the temple for 26 years previously.<ref>{{cite web|title=Rabbi Elaine Zecher|url=http://www.tisrael.org/our-rabbis-cantor/rabbi-elaine-zecher/|website=Temple Israel website|access-date=20 October 2016}}{{self-published-inline|date=January 2024}}</ref> She succeeded Rabbi Ronne Friedman, who had become the senior rabbi in 1999, who had in turn succeeded Rabbi Bernard Mehlman.<ref>{{cite web|title=Our Rabbis & Cantor|url=/proxy/http://www.tisrael.org/our-rabbis-cantor/|website=Temple Israel website|access-date=20 October 2016}}{{self-published-inline|date=January 2024}}</ref> The first female cantor was appointed in 2020. Alicia Stillman succeeded Roy Einhorn, who became emeritus after 27 years,.


==Tikkun Central==
=== Tikkun Central ===
Tikkun Central is the umbrella for all justice and compassion activities at Temple Israel, whether directed inward toward the Temple Israel community or outward towards the larger communities within which Temple Israel resides.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Temple Israel of Boston |url=/proxy/https://pluralism.org/temple-israel-boston |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=pluralism.org |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Puterman |first=Tali |last2= |date=2021-01-25 |title=Community Leadership Immersive Programs: B’nai Mitzvah Projects in a Virtual World |url=/proxy/https://ejewishphilanthropy.com/community-leadership-immersive-programs-bnai-mitzvah-projects-in-a-virtual-world/ |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=eJewishPhilanthropy}}</ref>
{{unreferenced section|date=January 2024}}
Tikkun Central is the umbrella for all justice and compassion activities at Temple Israel, whether directed inward toward the Temple Israel community or outward towards the larger communities within which Temple Israel resides.

⚫
==Community life==
{{unreferenced section|date=January 2024}}
=== Center for Adult Jewish Learning at Temple Israel of Boston ===
=== Center for Adult Jewish Learning at Temple Israel of Boston ===


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==On-site resources==
==On-site resources==
{{unreferenced section|date=January 2024}}
=== Temple Israel Archives ===
=== Temple Israel Archives ===
Temple Israel is the second oldest congregation in the Boston area, and the largest Reform congregation in New England. Founded in 1854 in Boston, its long history follows the rise of the local Jewish community. The Temple Israel Archives serves as the repository for records, documents, publications, and images relating to the history and administration of Temple Adath Israel of Boston. These records document the congregational history and provide primary source material to assist the clergy, staff, and members of the synagogue. The Archives also serve as a resource for researchers who are interested in the history of Boston's Jewish community, or in family research.
Temple Israel is the second-oldest congregation in the Boston area, and the largest Reform congregation in New England. Founded in 1854 in Boston, its long history follows the rise of the local Jewish community.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Temple Israel of Boston - Digital Commonwealth |url=/proxy/https://www.digitalcommonwealth.org/institutions/commonwealth:2b88t308n |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=www.digitalcommonwealth.org}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=December 1, 2010 |title=A Guide to Boston’s Religiously Significant Sites – AHA |url=/proxy/https://www.historians.org/perspectives-article/a-guide-to-bostons-religiously-significant-sites/ |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=Historians |language=en-US}}</ref> The Temple Israel Archives serves as the repository for records, documents, publications, and images relating to the history and administration of Temple Adath Israel of Boston. These records document the congregational history and provide primary source material to assist the clergy, staff, and members of the synagogue. The Archives also serve as a resource for researchers who are interested in the history of Boston's Jewish community, or in family research.


=== Wyner Museum ===
=== Wyner Museum ===
The Wyner Museum was reopened in 1984 to house the Temple Israel Judaica collection.
The Wyner Museum was established in 1980 and houses the Temple Israel Judaica collection.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Wyner Museum |url=/proxy/https://www.tisrael.org/who-we-are/our-story/wyner-museum/ |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=Temple Israel of Boston |language=en}}</ref>


=== Dr. Arnold L. Segel Library Center ===
=== Dr. Arnold L. Segel Library Center ===
Line 137: Line 131:


== Rabbinical leaders ==
== Rabbinical leaders ==
{{more references|date=January 2024}}
The following individuals have served as senior rabbis of the congregation:
The following individuals have served as senior rabbis of the congregation:
{| class="wikitable sortable" border="1"
{| class="wikitable sortable" border="1"
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!Notes
!Notes
|-
|-
| align=center| {{nts|1}} || Joseph Sachs ||align=center| 1854–1856 ||
| align=center| {{nts|1}} || Joseph Sachs ||align=center| 1854–1856 ||<ref>{{Cite web |date=2015-03-20 |title=Boston Temple Will Observe 80th Birthday |url=/proxy/https://www.jta.org/archive/boston-temple-will-observe-80th-birthday |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=Jewish Telegraphic Agency |language=en-US}}</ref>
|-
|-
| align=center| {{nts|2}} || Joseph Shoninger ||align=center| 1856–1874 ||Served as ''hazan''<ref>{{Cite web |date=1953-05-01 |title=From the American Scene: Boston’s Jewish Community: Earlier Days |url=/proxy/https://www.commentary.org/articles/charles-reznikoff/from-the-american-scene-bostons-jewish-community-earlier-days/ |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=Commentary Magazine |language=en-US}}</ref>
| align=center| {{nts|2}} || Joseph Shoninger ||align=center| 1856–1874 ||
|-
|-
| align=center| {{nts|3}} || [[Solomon Schindler]] ||align=center| 1874–1894 ||<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=1955-02-01 |title=Four Rabbis in Search of American JudaismCommentary on a History of Boston’s Temple Israel |url=/proxy/https://www.commentary.org/articles/nathan-glazer-2/four-rabbis-in-search-of-american-judaismcommentary-on-a-history-of-bostons-temple-israel/ |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=Commentary Magazine |language=en-US}}</ref>
| align=center| {{nts|3}} || [[Solomon Schindler]] ||align=center| 1874–1894 ||
|-
|-
| align=center| {{nts|4}} || Charles Fleischer ||align=center| 1894–1911 ||
| align=center| {{nts|4}} || Charles Fleischer ||align=center| 1894–1911 ||<ref name=":0" />
|-
|-
| align=center| {{nts|5}} || Harry Levi ||align=center| 1911–1939 ||
| align=center| {{nts|5}} || Harry Levi ||align=center| 1911–1939 ||<ref name=":0" />
|-
|-
| align=center| {{nts|6}} || [[Joshua L. Liebman]] ||align=center| 1936–1948 ||
| align=center| {{nts|6}} || [[Joshua L. Liebman]] ||align=center| 1936–1948 ||<ref name=":0" />
|-
|-
| align=center| {{nts|7}} || [[Abraham Klausner|Abraham J. Klausner]] ||align=center| 1949–1953 ||
| align=center| {{nts|7}} || [[Abraham Klausner|Abraham J. Klausner]] ||align=center| 1949–1953 ||<ref>{{Cite web |date=2015-03-20 |title=Rabbi Abraham Klausner Named Rabbi of Temple Israel in Boston; Succeeds Dr. Liebman |url=/proxy/https://www.jta.org/archive/rabbi-abraham-klausner-named-rabbi-of-temple-israel-in-boston-succeeds-dr-liebman |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=Jewish Telegraphic Agency |language=en-US}}</ref>
|-
|-
| align=center| {{nts|8}} || Roland B. Gittelsohn ||align=center| 1953–1977 || Emeritus: 1977–1995<ref>{{cite web|title=Roland Gittelsohn, 85, Rabbi and a Marine Chaplain on Iwo Jima|author=Stout, David|url=/proxy/https://www.nytimes.com/1995/12/15/nyregion/roland-gittelsohn-85-rabbi-and-a-marine-chaplain-on-iwo-jima.html|date=December 15, 1995|access-date=June 3, 2021|work=New York Times}}</ref>
| align=center| {{nts|8}} || Roland B. Gittelsohn ||align=center| 1953–1977 || Emeritus: 1977–1995<ref>{{cite web|title=Roland Gittelsohn, 85, Rabbi and a Marine Chaplain on Iwo Jima|author=Stout, David|url=/proxy/https://www.nytimes.com/1995/12/15/nyregion/roland-gittelsohn-85-rabbi-and-a-marine-chaplain-on-iwo-jima.html|date=December 15, 1995|access-date=June 3, 2021|work=New York Times}}</ref>
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* Roy Einhorn (cantor), 1983–2020 -->
* Roy Einhorn (cantor), 1983–2020 -->
==Architecture==
==Architecture==
In 1884–1885, the congregation erected the oldest purpose-built synagogue that remains standing in Massachusetts. The ''[[Rundbogenstil]]''-styled building, with twin towers and a [[rose window]] in the form of a [[Magen David]], stands at 600 [[Columbus Avenue (Boston)|Columbus Avenue]], at the corner of Northampton. Today, it is the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church.<ref name=Sarna/>{{rp|176}}<ref name=Gordon>Gordon, Mark W., "[http://muse.jhu.edu/journals/american_jewish_history/v084/84.1gordon_tab01.html Rediscovering Jewish Infrastructure: Update on United States Nineteenth Century Synagogues]." ''American Jewish History'', 84.1, 1996, p. 11–27. [http://www.ajhs.org/rediscovering-jewish-infrastructure 2019 article update].</ref>
In 1884–1885, the congregation erected the oldest purpose-built synagogue that remains standing in Massachusetts. The ''[[Rundbogenstil]]''-styled building, with twin towers and a [[rose window]] in the form of a [[Magen David]], stands at 600 [[Columbus Avenue (Boston)|Columbus Avenue]], at the corner of Northampton. Today, it is the [[African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church]].<ref name=Sarna/>{{rp|176}}<ref name=Gordon>Gordon, Mark W., "[http://muse.jhu.edu/journals/american_jewish_history/v084/84.1gordon_tab01.html Rediscovering Jewish Infrastructure: Update on United States Nineteenth Century Synagogues]." ''American Jewish History'', 84.1, 1996, p. 11–27. [http://www.ajhs.org/rediscovering-jewish-infrastructure 2019 article update].</ref>


In 1906, the congregation moved to a new building that is now the [[Morse Auditorium]] of [[Boston University]].<ref name=Sarna/>{{rp|177}}
In 1906, the congregation moved to a new building that is now the [[Morse Auditorium]] of [[Boston University]].<ref name=Sarna/>{{rp|177}}


In 1926, the congregation began work on a new temple, on the [[Riverway]] at Longwood Avenue in [[Roxbury, Boston|Roxbury]], just across the Muddy River from Brookline. The "monumental" [[Neoclassical architecture|Neoclassical]] building was designed as an enormous domed sanctuary with flanking wings. Only the west wing, about one-fifth of the planned space, was completed before the [[stock market crash of 1929]].<ref name=Sarna/>{{rp|196}} The auditorium and religious school on Longwood Avenue were supplemented by a new modernist sanctuary in 1973.<ref name="timeline">{{cite web |title=Our History |url=/proxy/http://www.tisrael.org/our-history/ |website=Temple Israel website |date= |access-date=20 October 2016}}{{self-published-inline|date=January 2024}}</ref>
In 1926, the congregation began work on a new temple, on the [[Riverway]] at Longwood Avenue in [[Roxbury, Boston|Roxbury]], just across the Muddy River from Brookline. The "monumental" [[Neoclassical architecture|Neoclassical]] building was designed as an enormous domed sanctuary with flanking wings. Only the west wing, about one-fifth of the planned space, was completed before the [[stock market crash of 1929]].<ref name=Sarna/>{{rp|196}} The auditorium and religious school on Longwood Avenue were supplemented by a new modernist sanctuary in 1973.<ref name="timeline">{{cite web |date= |title=Our History |url=/proxy/http://www.tisrael.org/our-history/ |access-date=20 October 2016 |website=Temple Israel website}}</ref>


==See also==
==See also==

Revision as of 06:33, 14 September 2024

For similarly named synagogues, see Adath Israel and Temple Israel.

Temple Israel
Hebrew: קק עדת ישראל
Religion
AffiliationReform Judaism
Ecclesiastical or organisational statusSynagogue
LeadershipRabbi Elaine Zecher
StatusActive
Notable artworksLouise Nevelson sculpture
Location
Location477 Longwood Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts
StateMassachusetts
CountryUnited States
Temple Israel (Boston) is located in Boston
Temple Israel (Boston)
Location in Boston, Massachusetts
Geographic coordinates42°20′25″N 71°06′33″W / 42.3403°N 71.1093°W / 42.3403; -71.1093
Architecture
Architect(s)
TypeSynagogue
Style
Date established1854 (as a congregation)
Completed
  • 1885 (Columbus Ave.)
  • 1906 (Commonwealth Ave.)
  • 1926 (Longwood Ave.)
  • 1973 (Longwood Ave.)
Website
tisrael.org

Temple Israel (Hebrew: קק עדת ישראל) is a synagogue affiliated with Reform Judaism located at 477 Longwood Avenue, in Boston, Massachusetts, in the United States. Founded in 1854 as Adath Israel, the congregation is the largest Reform synagogue in New England.

History

600 Columbus Ave. (1885–1906)
602 Commonwealth Ave. (1906–1926)
477 Longwood Ave. (1926–present)

The congregation Temple Israel, originally known as Adath Israel,[1] was founded in 1854 when Jews of German ancestry seceded from Ohabei Shalom, then the sole synagogue in Boston, because so many Polish Jews had joined the congregation.[2]: 169  The congregation immediately renovated a house on Pleasant Street for use as a synagogue. The congregation purchased land in Wakefield in 1859 for a cemetery.[2]: 170  The Columbus Avenue synagogue building, designed by architects Weissbein & Jones, was dedicated in 1885 and was indicative of the growing size and wealth of congregation, and the influence of its members and leaders. The Auxiliary Society was founded in 1894, the first internal temple organization dedicated to social service, cultural activity, education, and social functions.

The Commonwealth Avenue Temple, designed by Clarence Blackall, was dedicated in 1907. Rabbi Harry Levi, who served as rabbi from 1911 to 1939, led to changes within the religious school by implementing new policies such as paying teachers, establishing branch schools, and refocusing the curriculum on more traditional Jewish subjects. He officiated at the first congregational Seder, held in 1913. Abram Vossen Goodman stated, "For the first time we liberal Jews indicated that we wanted to participate in old Pesach traditions with our own version." This seder was the first to follow the Reform-sponsored Union Haggadah. Rabbi Levi commenced radio broadcasts of sermons in 1924, which led to his being known as the "Radio Rabbi."[3]

With his installation in 1954, Rabbi Gittelsohn—the first Jewish chaplain of the United States Marine Corps—brought a new commitment to social action to Temple Israel during his tenure.[4] During his time as the rabbi of Temple Israel, the congregation started the Boston Ruleville Interfaith Committee (BRIC) in 1959.[5] In April 1965, during a visit to Boston, Martin Luther King Jr. visited Temple Israel and spoke at their Passover event.[6]

Murray Simon was installed as the Temple's first cantor in 1972 and in the following year, a new sanctuary was completed as part of the expanded Riverway campus, with a commissioned sculpture by Louise Nevelson, called Sky Covenant, placed at the synagogue's entrance.[7]

In 2004 the congregation celebrated its 150th anniversary, and after Massachusetts became the first U. S. state to legalize gay marriage, gay marriage ceremonies were held at the synagogue.[8]

Rabbi Elaine Zecher was elected as the senior rabbi of the congregation in 2016, the first woman to hold that post.[9][10] She succeeded Rabbi Ronne Friedman, who had become the senior rabbi in 1999, who had in turn succeeded Rabbi Bernard Mehlman.[11] The first female cantor was appointed in 2020: Alicia Stillman succeeded Roy Einhorn, who became emeritus after 27 years.

Community life

Tikkun Central

Tikkun Central is the umbrella for all justice and compassion activities at Temple Israel, whether directed inward toward the Temple Israel community or outward towards the larger communities within which Temple Israel resides.[12][13]

Center for Adult Jewish Learning at Temple Israel of Boston

Religious School (Pre-K through 7)

Temple Israel offers a supplemental education program with classes for Pre-K through 7th graders.

On-site resources

Temple Israel Archives

Temple Israel is the second-oldest congregation in the Boston area, and the largest Reform congregation in New England. Founded in 1854 in Boston, its long history follows the rise of the local Jewish community.[14][15] The Temple Israel Archives serves as the repository for records, documents, publications, and images relating to the history and administration of Temple Adath Israel of Boston. These records document the congregational history and provide primary source material to assist the clergy, staff, and members of the synagogue. The Archives also serve as a resource for researchers who are interested in the history of Boston's Jewish community, or in family research.

Wyner Museum

The Wyner Museum was established in 1980 and houses the Temple Israel Judaica collection.[16]

Dr. Arnold L. Segel Library Center

The library, named in memory of Temple member Dr. Arnold L. Segel, has over 20,000 books, audio- and visual-recordings, books on CD, journals and newspapers on Jewish subjects ranging from Bible to Zohar (mystical text). Temple Israel members, students, and staff may borrow materials from the library. The library is open to the public for reading and research on site. The librarian, who has over 25 years of experience, and her staff are available to help with individual research projects, and can help you find resources on any topic from just about any location, physical or virtual. The library is a member of the Massachusetts Library System's Inter-Library Loan program.

Rabbinical leaders

The following individuals have served as senior rabbis of the congregation:

Ordinal Name Years Notes
1 Joseph Sachs 1854–1856 [17]
2 Joseph Shoninger 1856–1874 Served as hazan[18]
3 Solomon Schindler 1874–1894 [19]
4 Charles Fleischer 1894–1911 [19]
5 Harry Levi 1911–1939 [19]
6 Joshua L. Liebman 1936–1948 [19]
7 Abraham J. Klausner 1949–1953 [20]
8 Roland B. Gittelsohn 1953–1977 Emeritus: 1977–1995[21]
9 Bernard H. Mehlman 1977–1999 Emeritus: 1999–present
10 Ronne Friedman 1999–2016 Emeritus: 2016–present
11 Elaine Zecher 2016–present

Architecture

In 1884–1885, the congregation erected the oldest purpose-built synagogue that remains standing in Massachusetts. The Rundbogenstil-styled building, with twin towers and a rose window in the form of a Magen David, stands at 600 Columbus Avenue, at the corner of Northampton. Today, it is the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church.[2]: 176 [22]

In 1906, the congregation moved to a new building that is now the Morse Auditorium of Boston University.[2]: 177 

In 1926, the congregation began work on a new temple, on the Riverway at Longwood Avenue in Roxbury, just across the Muddy River from Brookline. The "monumental" Neoclassical building was designed as an enormous domed sanctuary with flanking wings. Only the west wing, about one-fifth of the planned space, was completed before the stock market crash of 1929.[2]: 196  The auditorium and religious school on Longwood Avenue were supplemented by a new modernist sanctuary in 1973.[23]

See also

References

  1. ^ "Temple Israel of Boston". hwpi.harvard.edu. Retrieved September 14, 2024.
  2. ^ a b c d e Sarna, Jonathan D.; Smith, Ellen, eds. (1995). The Jews of Boston. Boston: Northeastern University Press. ISBN 1555532179.
  3. ^ "Some John Shepard History". www.bostonradio.org. Retrieved September 14, 2024. WNAC was the first station in Boston to offer live broadcasts of synagogue services, beginning January 20, 1924; Rabbi Harry Levi, "the Radio Rabbi", becomes the first rabbi to use broadcasting as a way of teaching tolerance and educating the public about what Jews believe. He becomes so popular that two books of his radio sermons are issued.
  4. ^ "December 13: Rabbi Roland B. Gittelsohn". Jewish Currents. Retrieved September 14, 2024.
  5. ^ "Our Story". Temple Israel of Boston. Retrieved September 14, 2024.
  6. ^ "The day Dr. King visited Boston Common in 1965 – The Bay State Banner". baystatebanner.com. Retrieved September 14, 2024.
  7. ^ "Sky Covenant, (sculpture)". siris-artinventories.si.edu. Retrieved September 14, 2024.
  8. ^ Schwartz, Penny (May 10, 2014). "Massachusetts Jews reflect on a decade of same-sex marriage". The Times of Israel.
  9. ^ "A Leader Among Men". Brandeis Magazine. Retrieved September 14, 2024.
  10. ^ Sweeney, Chris (December 5, 2017). "Elaine Zecher, Talk of the Temple". Boston Magazine. Retrieved September 14, 2024.
  11. ^ "Our Rabbis & Cantor". Temple Israel website. Retrieved October 20, 2016.
  12. ^ "Temple Israel of Boston". pluralism.org. Retrieved September 14, 2024.
  13. ^ Puterman, Tali (January 25, 2021). "Community Leadership Immersive Programs: B'nai Mitzvah Projects in a Virtual World". eJewishPhilanthropy. Retrieved September 14, 2024.
  14. ^ "Temple Israel of Boston - Digital Commonwealth". www.digitalcommonwealth.org. Retrieved September 14, 2024.
  15. ^ "A Guide to Boston's Religiously Significant Sites – AHA". Historians. December 1, 2010. Retrieved September 14, 2024.
  16. ^ "Wyner Museum". Temple Israel of Boston. Retrieved September 14, 2024.
  17. ^ "Boston Temple Will Observe 80th Birthday". Jewish Telegraphic Agency. March 20, 2015. Retrieved September 14, 2024.
  18. ^ "From the American Scene: Boston's Jewish Community: Earlier Days". Commentary Magazine. May 1, 1953. Retrieved September 14, 2024.
  19. ^ a b c d "Four Rabbis in Search of American JudaismCommentary on a History of Boston's Temple Israel". Commentary Magazine. February 1, 1955. Retrieved September 14, 2024.
  20. ^ "Rabbi Abraham Klausner Named Rabbi of Temple Israel in Boston; Succeeds Dr. Liebman". Jewish Telegraphic Agency. March 20, 2015. Retrieved September 14, 2024.
  21. ^ Stout, David (December 15, 1995). "Roland Gittelsohn, 85, Rabbi and a Marine Chaplain on Iwo Jima". New York Times. Retrieved June 3, 2021.
  22. ^ Gordon, Mark W., "Rediscovering Jewish Infrastructure: Update on United States Nineteenth Century Synagogues." American Jewish History, 84.1, 1996, p. 11–27. 2019 article update.
  23. ^ "Our History". Temple Israel website. Retrieved October 20, 2016.

Further reading

  • Dwyer-Ryan, Meaghan; Porter, Susan L.; Fagin Davis, Lisa (2009). Becoming American Jews: Temple Israel of Boston. Waltham: Brandeis University Press.
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