Did you know that Synagogue Emanu-El started with a disagreement? It is a story of faith. It is also a story of change. Let’s uncover the history of this Charleston congregation.
Synagogue Emanu-El began in 1947. A group of 73 members left Brith Sholom. They wanted a Conservative approach to Judaism. Rabbi Solomon D. Goldfarb resigned due to disagreements. He was frustrated with the inability to accept change.
The founders included the Kronsberg and Steinberg families. Also Nathan Goldberg, Milton Banov, and Hyman Rephan joined. Macey Kronsberg became the first president of Synagogue Emanu-El. They held their first services for Rosh Hashanah in 1947. The congregation did not have its own building yet. Brith Sholom loaned them two Torah scrolls for the High Holidays. Later Sam Berlin requested their return.
Matthew “Mattie” Steinberg’s family helped. They provided a surplus Army chapel. This became a temporary sanctuary. It was located on land purchased by Macey Kronsberg. The Sisterhood Emanu-El was formed by the women. Anita Steinberg served as its first president. They started a Sunday school in October 1947. Cantor Jacob Renzer arrived from England to lead music.
Synagogue Emanu-El grew quickly. The Army chapel became too small. Construction began on a new synagogue on Gordon Street in 1954. The building opened in December 1955. It could accommodate 600 worshippers. Later, the old chapel was named the Esther Dumas Memorial Building. A room became the Kronsberg Library.
Many younger families moved west of the Ashley River. The congregation decided to move too. Construction began in 1977 in Parkshore. The new Synagogue Emanu-El opened in December 1979. Rabbi Alan Cohen led the dedication. The new building was designed by Benjamin Hirsch.
Hurricane Hugo struck in September 1989. It damaged the roof and downed many trees. Members worked together to restore the synagogue. They welcomed the New Year despite the damage.
Synagogue Emanu-El celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2022. It has been at its current location since 1980. Today, Synagogue Emanu-El continues to be a vital part of Charleston. It welcomes over 345 families. It offers diverse programs and services. It also includes Shabbat and holiday services. Synagogue Emanu-El remains committed to tradition. It also embraces change.