Consider the year 1935. The Synagogue de La Varenne stands as a testament to a growing Jewish community. Parisian Jews sought a peaceful suburb and found it here, near La Marne.
The Synagogue de La Varenne is more than just a building. It is a symbol of faith and community. Its story began with a need. No Jewish place of worship existed in this pleasant area.
Before this grand structure, a humble oratory served the community since 1926. It was located at 3, rue Georges Clemenceau. This small space hosted Shabbat services and holiday celebrations.
Several key figures guided this early community. Abraham Loewinski and Simon Goldenberg were among them. Henri Levyne and others also played active roles. These men later founded the Synagogue de La Varenne.
Even future famous rabbis graced this oratory. Rabbi Saks taught here in 1927. He later became a Grand Rabbi before his tragic death during the Shoah. Rabbi Kaplan also taught here in 1929 and became Grand Rabbi of France.
Around this time, the Synagogue de la rue Pavée acquired property at 30 rue Saint-Hilaire. Here, the “Beiss Yessoïmim” orphanage was established. This was on January 8, 1929. Abraham Rosenberg presided over it.
The community and the orphanage were closely linked. In the 1950s, the two associations merged. The history of Jewish children’s homes in La Varenne is significant. The pension Zysman was closely tied to the orphanage during the Shoah.
Simon Goldenberg was a renowned tapestry maker. His workshop trained many artisans. Abraham Loewinski was a cap maker. His granddaughter recalls helping him rehearse speeches when she was just twelve.
Now, look at the Synagogue de La Varenne itself. Its design is classic. A vestibule leads into the nave. An apse marks the sanctuary. Men gather on the ground floor. Women worship on the first floor. The Synagogue de La Varenne includes an oratory for men and a reception hall.
Inside, you will see curved bays with stained glass. The interior is relatively simple. But the facade is impressive. The Star of David encloses a rose. Below, you’ll find the Tables of the Law. The bimah is beside the holy ark.
Take note of the inscription on the wall facing the balcony. In Hebrew and French, it declares “You shall love your neighbor as yourself”. This Leviticus message is central to the Synagogue de La Varenne. It reflects the community’s values.
Today, the Synagogue de La Varenne continues to serve its community. It stands as a reminder of the past. It is also a beacon of hope for the future. It’s a place where tradition meets modernity. It’s a testament to faith and resilience in the heart of La Varenne.