Perhaps you have wondered about the name Adath Shalom. It means Assembly of Peace in Hebrew. Adath Shalom Synagogue stands here as a beacon of modern Jewish life in Paris.
Adath Shalom is not just a synagogue. It represents a bridge between tradition and modernity. This is what Masorti Judaism is all about.
The congregation was established in 1989. Since then, Adath Shalom has grown into the largest Masorti community in France. In 2008, it counted 300 families as members.
In 1991, Rivon Krygier became the rabbi. He shaped the community for many years. In 2004, Adath Shalom expanded. A satellite location named Adath Shalom East was founded. In 2013, it was renamed Dor V’Dor. Dor V’Dor means Generation to Generation in Hebrew. It is located in the 20th arrondissement. Yeshaya Dalsace is their rabbi.
Adath Shalom embraces equality. Men and women have equal roles here. The community actively engages in interfaith dialogue. They work with the group Vivre Ensemble in Paris’ 15th arrondissement.
The community defines itself as Masorti or Conservative. This means that they practice an evolving Judaism. They want to combine modernity with a respect for tradition. This is how they differ from other forms of Judaism.
Currently, Josh Weiner leads the community as rabbi. Services follow traditional lines. However, women have equal status to men here. Study and discussion of texts are very important. Teachings are provided in an open spirit. Hebrew remains the liturgical language. Translations are available. This ensures everyone can follow the service.
Adath Shalom is more than a place of worship. It is a community. It welcomes those seeking a living and contemporary Judaism. It is open to those who are warm, creative, and curious.
Adath Shalom offers regular services. These take place on Thursday mornings. Friday evenings and Saturday mornings are also important. Throughout the year, many courses and conferences are held here. The synagogue also has a youth movement.
Adath Shalom is a partner of the FSJU. They support Tsedaka throughout the year. The community is affiliated with the Conservative movement. It has 1,500,000 members worldwide.
Adath Shalom literally means Assembly of Peace. It welcomes all visitors with this blessing of peace.
Adath Shalom aims to reconcile tradition and modernity. It brings together men and women seeking identity and spirituality. Some had drifted away. Others inherited a strong religious background. They feel torn between faith and modern values. Still others realized the importance of religious values. They want to pass this identity on to their children. They need a living connection with a religious community. Adath Shalom welcomes all. It welcomes them regardless of their degree of faith. They can have different levels of knowledge and involvement.
Adath Shalom is a testament to faith. It is a testament to community. It’s a place where tradition meets modernity.