“Gates of Prayer,” that’s what Shaaray Tefila means in Hebrew. This synagogue stands here today because of a resilient spirit. Temple Shaaray Tefila’s story is one of constant evolution.
Founded in 1845 by English and Dutch Jews it started as an Orthodox synagogue. These members had been part of B’nai Jeshurun. The synagogue received its official charter in 1848. Over time Temple Shaaray Tefila slowly embraced Reform Judaism.
Initially, Temple Shaaray Tefila was on Wooster Street. Then, it moved several times. West 34th Street, West 36th Street and West 44th Street became temporary homes. It even resided on West 82nd Street and was known as West End Synagogue.
By 1862 Temple Shaaray Tefila had grown to 200 members. In 1865 they opened a religious school. The congregation joined with Beth-El in 1871. Beth-El had been around since 1853.
Services shifted to be shorter and simpler by 1879. Some were even in English. Temple Shaaray Tefila then allowed men and women to sit together. Organ music and a mixed choir were introduced. The congregation officially joined the Reform movement in 1902. By 1916 Temple Shaaray Tefila boasted 500 members.
The current location on the Upper East Side dates back to 1959. The building was originally a movie theater called the Colony. Later, it became a Trans-Lux theater. A $1.5 million conversion transformed it into the synagogue we see today. That is about $15.8 million today. Since moving here Temple Shaaray Tefila has reverted to its original name.
Temple Shaaray Tefila established a nursery school in 1993. The city honored the synagogue’s 150th anniversary in 1996. East 79th Street and 2nd Avenue became “Temple Shaaray Tefila Place”.
Samuel Isaacs was the first rabbi. He was one of the few who spoke English. Rabbi Isaacs was a firm believer in Orthodox Judaism. Rabbi Frederick de Sola Mendes followed in 1877. Rabbi Nathan Stern took over in 1920.
Rabbi Bernard Bamberger led from 1944 to 1971. His reforms were not well received by some members. Rabbi Harvey Tattelbaum then led for three decades. Rabbi Jonathan Stein became Senior Rabbi in 2001. Rabbi Joel Mosbacher was unanimously elected in 2016.
Many notable people have been members. Bernard Baruch the financier was a member. Charles S. Bernheimer a social worker served as president. Leon Klinghoffer a manufacturer had his funeral here. William Schuman a composer attended as a child. Alan V. Tishman a real estate developer also had his funeral here.
Temple Shaaray Tefila’s journey reflects the evolving nature of faith. It shows community and adaptation in New York City. Here at Temple Shaaray Tefila they are committed to social responsibility. They want to make the world a better place. They achieve this through good deeds and acts of kindness.