Congregation Adath Israel

In 1949, a seed of faith was planted in San Francisco’s Sunset District. This seed blossomed into Congregation Adath Israel. Several founders of Adath Israel were immigrants from the Adass Yisroel Shul in Berlin. This connection imbues Adath Israel with a rich history rooted in the “Torah im Derech Eretz” school of Orthodoxy. This philosophy, emphasizing both Torah scholarship and engagement with the secular world, continues to shape the community today. Congregation Adath Israel began humbly, holding services in a living room. As the community grew, it moved to a storefront and eventually to its current magnificent building on 26th Avenue and Noriega Street in the early 1960s. The congregation flourished under Rabbi Jacob Traub, hired in 1967, becoming a cornerstone of Jewish life in San Francisco. Congregation Adath Israel prides itself on being a Modern Orthodox community. This means a commitment to Jewish law, including Shabbat, kashrut, and prayer. It also means a positive embrace of secular culture, encouraging members to engage with the modern world. This approach is inspired by Rabbi Yosef Dov Soloveitchik’s concept of “Torah Umadda” (Torah and secular knowledge). In 2005, Rabbi Joshua Strulowitz joined Congregation Adath Israel. His leadership ushered in a period of renewal, attracting a younger generation and solidifying the synagogue’s reputation as a warm and welcoming space. Congregation Adath Israel reflects the diverse and international character of San Francisco. Members come from all walks of life, finding a common ground in their shared faith. The congregation offers a wide range of programs, from adult education and children’s activities to daily minyanim and creative events. It has become a vibrant hub for Jewish life in the Sunset District and beyond.