Climb the steps toward a unique blend of history and culture. This is the Sixth and I Synagogue. It is not just one of the oldest synagogues in Washington D.C. It is a vibrant center for arts, entertainment, ideas, and Jewish life.
Dedicated in 1908 as a conservative synagogue, the building has lived many lives. The Adas Israel Congregation built it near the city’s main commercial district. This was the heart of Washington’s Jewish community.
By 1951, the congregation needed more space. They moved to Connecticut Avenue. The Sixth and I building was sold to the Turner Memorial A.M.E. Church. For fifty years, it served as a place of worship for a different community.
But the story does not end there. In 2002, the church relocated. Developers stepped in to save the historic building. They prevented it from becoming a nightclub. Their mission was to restore it to its original glory.
Shelton Zuckerman spearheaded the restoration. He enlisted the help of Abe Pollin and Douglas Jemal. They worked from old wedding photos. These photos were from 1949. The team returned the building to its original design. The Sixth and I Synagogue was rededicated on April 22, 2004.
Today, the Sixth and I is a non-denominational synagogue. It does not have membership requirements. It is a synagogue that is anything but traditional. Rabbi Shira Stutman leads it. She attracts many young professionals. These young adults explore their Jewish heritage.
But there is more. The Sixth and I Synagogue is renowned for its cultural events. The synagogue hosts talks, concerts, and comedy shows. Imagine President George W. Bush addressing an audience here. Picture Supreme Court Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Elena Kagan sharing their wisdom. Envision Nobel Laureates Toni Morrison and Elie Wiesel engaging in thought-provoking discussions.
The Sixth and I Synagogue has hosted a diverse array of talent. Adele, Bryan Adams, and Salman Rushdie have all graced its stage. Comedians like Jim Gaffigan and Lewis Black have brought laughter to its halls.
Jewish life thrives here too. The Sixth and I offers education, Shabbat services, and holiday celebrations. During the High Holidays, the synagogue rents space from nearby churches. This accommodates over 3,000 people.
The building itself is a sight to behold. Louis Levi designed it in Moorish and Romanesque Revival styles. Domes adorn the roof. Columns flank the entrance. Inside, a large sanctuary awaits. Terracotta walls and a multi-arched ceiling create a stunning effect. Stained glass windows add color and light.
The Sixth and I Synagogue is more than just a building. It is a place where history, culture, and community converge. It is a testament to the power of preservation. It is a vibrant hub for Jewish life in the 21st century.