Out of despair, Temple Emanuel was born. Founded in September 1935 during the Great Depression, Temple Emanuel became a symbol of hope. A small group of men and women envisioned an institution that would stand for faith in the future. Many of the founding members were refugees. For them, creating the synagogue represented a freedom they had never known.
Initially, Temple Emanuel held services in temporary quarters on Commonwealth Avenue. Just five days later, Rabbi Leo Shubow became the religious leader. The community quickly established a Sisterhood and Brotherhood. One year later, the Hebrew and Sunday schools had 160 students. In 1937, Gabriel Hochberg was appointed Cantor, Teacher, and Principal of the Hebrew School. He served for 39 years. Lewis Lourie served as Temple Sexton.
Only two years after its formation, Temple Emanuel celebrated the High Holy Days in its new home on Ward Street in September 1937. These were active years for the growing congregation. Rabbi Samuel N Sherman became a religious leader. In 1950, Rabbi Albert I Gordon became the Temple Emanuel leader. The congregation planned a half-million dollar school building.
Temple Emanuel became a religious home for Jewish families. A chapel, modern school building, and community hall were dedicated. A high school allowed children to explore their history more deeply.
In 1968, Rabbi Samuel Chiel succeeded Rabbi Gordon. Rabbi Gordon was elected Rabbi Emeritus after 18 years. During Rabbi Chiel’s leadership, Temple Emanuel became a leading Conservative congregation. He fostered creativity, developing new programs and activities. The Israel concerns committee, the annual Kallah, and the Havurot were established. A Hebrew literacy program and an adult bar/bat mitzvah program were also created. The annual Holocaust Memorial Service, the contemporary Rosh Hashanah service, and the stars of David social club were initiated. The social action committee also began.
In 1997, Rabbi Wes Gardenswartz became the rabbi at Temple Emanuel. He emphasized inclusiveness for all, including women, interfaith couples, and the LGBTQ community. Rabbi Gardenswartz helped modernize Temple Emanuel. Rabbi Michelle Robinson joined Temple Emanuel in 1999. Cantor Elías Rosemberg became the fourth cantor in 2007. Rav Hazzan Aliza Berger joined the Temple Emanuel community.
Dan Nesson joined Temple Emanuel in 1989. Previously, he served as Ritual Director in West Hartford, Connecticut. He taught Adult Education at Hebrew College.
Temple Emanuel’s cookbook captures the essence of time. It showcases the culinary talents within the Temple Emanuel community. The recipes have been beloved for generations.
From a small group with hope, a vibrant congregation has grown. Temple Emanuel serves the spiritual and social needs of thousands of families. The efforts of the founders and the newer Jewish settlers have propelled Temple Emanuel to the forefront of American Judaism. Temple Emanuel’s history includes growth, membership, outstanding education, and spiritual leadership.
Temple Emanuel hosts a variety of events.