Temple Israel of Great Neck

Eighty years ago, a dream took root in Great Neck. A dream of a vibrant Conservative Jewish community. This dream blossomed into the Temple Israel of Great Neck. Temple Israel of Great Neck began its journey in a converted house on Preston Road. Ten families, united by their faith, transformed bedrooms into classrooms. They turned a living room into a sanctuary, furnished with seats donated by a generous local movie theater owner. Temple Israel of Great Neck quickly outgrew its humble beginnings. Services were packed, and the community thrived. In 1947, a new chapter began. Ground was broken for a new building on Old Mill Road, the current location of Temple Israel of Great Neck. The building was completed just in time for the High Holy Days of 1949. In 1947, Rabbi Mordecai Waxman arrived at Temple Israel of Great Neck, beginning a remarkable tenure of over 50 years. He and his wife Ruth became pillars of the community. Cantor Benjamin Siegel joined him in 1950, serving with distinction until 1984. The growth of Temple Israel of Great Neck led to the expansion of its Hebrew School and Hebrew High School. A neighboring property was acquired in 1955, becoming the “Youth House.” This housed high school and some elementary classes, as well as youth activities. Further expansion came in 1961 with a new addition. This two-story structure included an auditorium, catering facilities, classrooms, and offices, even allowing for the establishment of a nursery school, which grew from 15 to over 150 children. The Youth House, renamed the Waxman Youth House, was rebuilt in 1970. It boasts 15 classrooms, a youth lounge, a recreational hall, a chapel, and a library. Temple Israel of Great Neck has hosted notable figures. Opera star Richard Tucker performed here in 1965. Former Presidents Gerald Ford and George H.W. Bush have also graced the Temple with their presence. Temple Israel of Great Neck continues to flourish under the leadership of Rabbi Howard A. Stecker, who joined in 2003, and Hazzan Brian Shamash who joined in 2021. From its humble beginnings, Temple Israel of Great Neck has become a prominent Conservative congregation, serving nearly 800 families and embodying the vision of its founders.