Harare Hebrew Congegation

Was Harare Hebrew Congregation always such a quiet place? Today, birdsong fills the air around the Harare Hebrew Congregation. It’s a stark contrast to its bustling past. The Harare Hebrew Congregation, founded in 1895, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Zimbabwe’s Jewish community. Twenty men and two women established this Ashkenazi community in the then-Salisbury. Just five years later, Joe van Praagh, a founding member, became Salisbury’s first Jewish mayor. The community’s first synagogue, built in 1901 on Rhodes Avenue, quickly became too small. A new synagogue arose on Salisbury Street in 1920, reflecting the community’s growth. By 1964, over 500 families thrived within the Harare Hebrew Congregation. A chevra kaddisha, a Hebrew School, youth groups, and vibrant Zionist organizations all contributed to the rich tapestry of Jewish life. The congregation even maintained a rabbi until the 1980s when economic hardship struck Zimbabwe. Today, the Harare Hebrew Congregation calls the Milton Park Jewish Center home. While the community has faced challenges and its numbers have dwindled, the spirit of the Harare Hebrew Congregation persists. The restoration of rabbinical services in the 21st century signifies a renewed commitment to Jewish life in Harare. The echoes of a vibrant past linger in the air, whispering stories of resilience and community.