Bnai Israel Congregational Synagogue

Amidst the hustle and bustle of Rockville, Maryland, stands B’nai Israel Congregational Synagogue. It’s a beacon of Jewish life, a place where history whispers through the halls. B’nai Israel’s story began humbly in 1925 in a house on Georgia Avenue in Washington D.C. A small group, led by Harry Himelfarb, Henry Reiner, and Hyman Klavans, envisioned a place for Hebrew education and prayer. They purchased a home, their first “synagogue,” fueled by a shared dream and $12 annual dues. B’nai Israel Congregational Synagogue quickly outgrew this space. In 1929, they purchased the former Hamline Methodist Church building at 14th and Emerson Streets. This marked a significant expansion, accommodating over 400 worshippers. The congregation continued to grow, reflecting the growth and northward migration of Washington’s Jewish community. B’nai Israel Congregational Synagogue is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a testament to the dedication of its members. Hyman Klavans, affectionately known as the “Papa” of the shul, held a lifelong seat on the pulpit, a symbol of his devotion. The synagogue’s history is intertwined with the leadership of Rabbi Henry Segal. Arriving in 1936, he found a small congregation and a Hebrew school of just 19 children. Rabbi Segal’s tireless efforts, including door-to-door outreach, significantly expanded the school and the congregation. By 1962, B’nai Israel had grown to nearly 1,100 families under his guidance. B’nai Israel Congregational Synagogue has always adapted to the changing needs of its community. In 1951, the synagogue moved to 16th and Crittenden Streets, a modern facility designed with education in mind. As families migrated to the suburbs, B’nai Israel established a Hebrew school in Silver Spring in 1967. Finally, in 1976, B’nai Israel found its current home in Rockville. This move, facilitated by the visionary leadership of Homer and Martha Gudelsky, ushered in a new era of growth and expansion. B’nai Israel Congregational Synagogue has continually evolved. It embraced egalitarian Conservative practices, expanded its educational programs, and became a vital center for Jewish life in the region. The Thelma and Melvin Lenkin Educational and Activities Center, completed in 2003, stands as a testament to the congregation’s commitment to education and community. From its humble beginnings to its present-day prominence, B’nai Israel Congregational Synagogue remains a vibrant community, a place where tradition meets innovation, and where the echoes of history inspire future generations.