Is it possible for a house of worship to relocate eight times? Chicago Sinai Congregation has. Founded in 1861 Chicago Sinai Congregation is a Reform Jewish congregation with a rich history. It stands at 15 West Delaware Place in Chicago.
Let’s delve into the story of Chicago Sinai Congregation. It was the first Reform congregation in Chicago. The congregation played a pioneering role in the ritual reform of the Sunday Sabbath. This was a controversial move. It substituted Saturday with Sunday for Jewish communities in America.
In the late 19th century Chicago Sinai Congregation was at the center of speculation. The speculation concerned the possibility of a woman rabbi in the United States. In 1897 Hannah G. Solomon of Chicago preached at the congregation. The press touted her as America’s first woman rabbi. Solomon later said that Rabbi Emil Hirsch invited her to speak. Hirsch’s practice of allowing women to speak from the pulpit was later adopted by other congregations.
Many early rabbis served Chicago Sinai Congregation. Bernhard Felsenthal served from the congregation’s beginning in 1861 to 1864. Isaac Leow Chronik served from 1866 to 1871. Kaufmann Kohler served from 1871 to 1880. Emil G. Hirsch served from 1880 to 1923. Twentieth-century rabbis include Richard C. Hertz who served from 1947 to 1953. Philip N. Kranz served from 1971 to 1980.
Chicago Sinai Congregation has a unique architectural story. The current synagogue building was designed by Dirk Lohan. It was completed in 1996. The building includes stained-glass windows by British artist Brian Clarke. The congregation moved back to its near north side neighborhood after 136 years. The lot’s narrow size presented a challenge for Lohan. The long entry cutting back into the property line gave the building visual drama.
The congregation calls their building a temple. It is sometimes referred to as a synagogue. Newspaper reporters once called these buildings Jewish churches. The difference depends on who you ask. It also depends on the branch of Judaism. Reform Judaism is more progressive. Conservative Judaism is more traditional. Orthodox Judaism is the most traditional. Reform Jews believe their place of worship is an extension of the original Temple.
Today Chicago Sinai is dedicated to inclusiveness and social justice. It focuses on spiritual development and lifelong learning. The congregation welcomes all to share worship connection and community. Chicago Sinai embraces the call to repair the world. It offers Shabbat services and lifecycle events. The congregation encourages members to share life events and receive communal support.
So as you stand here consider the journey of Chicago Sinai Congregation. It has moved eight times. It championed reform. It fostered inclusivity. It continues to enrich Chicago’s social fabric.