Journey back to the early 1900s. Jewish immigrants sought community. Adath Israel Congregation began as a haven.
Adath Israel Congregation’s story starts with Romanian immigrants. They yearned for connection in Toronto. These newcomers found comfort in shared experiences. Social gatherings evolved into prayer meetings. The community desired its own congregation.
Securing a Sefer Torah became essential. Members sacrificed nickels and dimes. Their campaign succeeded. The group moved from a room to rented space. It was above a Turkish bath then a grocery store. This was in 1903. Membership grew substantially. The first president and secretary were elected. A cemetery was acquired far north on Roselawn Avenue.
After renting other spaces Adath Israel Congregation bought two cottages. These cottages on Centre Avenue served until 1911. A new building on Bathurst near Dundas was dedicated. For thirty years Adath Israel flourished there. It was known as “The Roumainishe Shul.”
The synagogue became a vibrant center. Religious and social life thrived. Friendship permeated the membership. Family bonds and shared origins fostered warmth.
Rabbi Abraham Kelman became the first full-time rabbi in 1939. He served until 1947. Rabbi Erwin Schild succeeded him. He was ordained by Yeshivah Torath Chaim of Toronto. The congregation had about 150 families then.
By 1957 Adath Israel Congregation had a complete synagogue home. It offered space for services, education, and social events. Growth necessitated further building. In 1965, an addition created more space. The western portion became the Rabbi Erwin Schild Wing.
Rabbi Steven Saltzman succeeded Rabbi Schild in 1989. He was a dynamic leader and scholar. Rabbi Saltzman served until his death in 2014. Rabbi David C Seed was hired in 2003. In 2015 Rabbi Moshe Meirovich became Interim Rabbi. In 2018, Rabbi Adam Cutler became the spiritual leader. He is the first Toronto-born rabbi to lead Adath Israel.
Over the years committees and programs evolved. Brotherhood, Women of Adath, and Club L’Chayim emerged. The Chesed Committee, Young Families, and Teens also formed. Today the congregation has about 1400 families. Adath Israel Congregation offers activities for all ages.
Adath Israel has wheelchair accessibility. There are barrier-free washrooms. A Shabbat elevator is available. The Bimah is wheelchair accessible. Large print prayer books are available. The synagogue accommodates those with hearing impairments.
After over 100 years Adath Israel Congregation faces the future confidently. It continues to serve as a dynamic family-oriented synagogue.