Synagogue de Neuilly

Whispers of faith echo within the Synagogue de Neuilly. This magnificent structure stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Jewish community in Neuilly-sur-Seine. The Synagogue de Neuilly, built in 1878 in the Byzantine Revival style, has witnessed a rich and complex history. Its story begins in 1869 with a small congregation worshipping in a modest apartment on rue Louis-Philippe. Led by the dedicated Godchaux Oulry, the community raised the necessary funds to build a proper synagogue. The Synagogue de Neuilly became a beacon of hope and resilience. The community flourished until World War II brought devastation. The synagogue’s rabbi, Robert Meyers, and his wife, Suzanne, were tragically deported to Auschwitz in 1943. A plaque outside the Synagogue de Neuilly serves as a poignant reminder of the lives lost during this dark period, commemorating the deported Jewish inhabitants of Neuilly and the heroic actions of the Righteous Among the Nations. The post-war era brought a slow but determined rebirth. Rabbi David Feuerwerker spearheaded the creation of study circles and youth groups, breathing new life into the community. The arrival of Algerian Jews in 1962 further invigorated the Synagogue de Neuilly, adding to its vibrancy. The centenary celebration in 1978 marked a moment of triumph, with former Prime Minister Michel Debré among the attendees. The legacy of the Synagogue de Neuilly continues to this day. Rabbi Michael Azoulay, a respected member of the National Consultative Ethics Committee, now guides the community. The Synagogue de Neuilly stands not only as a place of worship, but also as a symbol of perseverance, community, and unwavering faith.