“Association of peace” is what Agudath Sholom means in Hebrew. This Modern Orthodox synagogue has a rich history. It reflects Jewish immigration and demographic shifts.
Agudath Sholom was founded in 1889. Twenty-two members declared themselves a congregation. Early meetings occurred in Jewish-owned businesses. They also rented spaces. In 1908, the congregation built its first synagogue downtown.
A devastating fire and reconstruction occurred later. In 1966, Agudath Sholom moved to its current location. It is on Strawberry Hill Avenue. The sanctuary was designed by New York City architects. Davis, Brody and Associates designed it. In 1980, a lobby area and chapel were added. This accommodated growing numbers.
In August, Agudath Sholom celebrated a chanukat habayit. This marked the end of a seven-year renovation. The renovation accommodated another growth spurt. Membership reached 515 families. A congregant donated significantly in memory of his father. This gift started the capital campaigns.
Rachel Dayan is the building committee chair. She noted the need for more space. Shabbat youth groups met in the lobby and chapel. There was no other place for them. They needed more space for youth activities. Space was also needed for women’s tefilla groups, a Sephardic minyan, and a teen minyan.
The building needed modernization. Deferred maintenance needs were addressed. Executive Director Matt Feinberg noted challenges. They found many known and unknown conditions. This was during the renovation of the 55-year-old building.
Dennis Noskin Architects helped repurpose the building. It met the needs of a 21st-century Jewish community. Sightlines in the sanctuary were changed. A small addition houses flexible classroom space. Floor and wall coverings were replaced. Contemporary colors and materials create a warm environment.
Construction began in November 2019. It slowed during the pandemic. This was due to material and worker shortages. DNA’s design transformed dark spaces. It created an open, airy and bright feel. Gleaming white floors welcome visitors.
The lobby is expanded and well-lit. A staffed reception area sits behind a large glass window. There is now plenty of room for Shabbat events. Tallit cubbies are well-placed for men. A ritual washing station is equidistant from the sanctuary.
Family restrooms are available. An expanded coatroom prevents bottlenecking. DNA created a grand entry to the sanctuary. This entry befits the importance of the sacred space.
Rabbi Danny Cohen provided guidance on halachic requirements. These are unique to a synagogue building. The mechitza height was adjusted when the sanctuary floor was raised. A special insert protects Torah scrolls. This is in case of a sprinkler malfunction.
Significant modifications improved accessibility. The elevator was refurbished. Ramps were installed. Seats were removed in the sanctuary for wheelchairs. The Torah-reading table was updated. A man in a wheelchair could now have an aliyah.
Agudath Sholom is a testament to community power. Many people coalesced around a shared goal. People with different expertise gave input. They helped make critical decisions. Rabbi Cohen noted how everyone came together. He likened it to building the mishkan. Giving from the heart is what matters. The reinvigoration of this house inspires people. It inspires them to live with generosity, optimism, and hope.