History

In 1917, ten Jewish families envisioned the movement of a sizable number of Jews to Greenwich and thus founded a synagogue that would become the visible center for a community where Jewish people could come, be welcome and maintain their Jewish heritage.

In those early days, High Holiday services were held in Abrams Hall on Greenwich Avenue, and in 1919, a small house was purchased on East Elm Street. For the next 35 years, the Greenwich Hebrew Institute was the heart of religious and cultural activities. At first, the Jewish population grew slowly, and then, more rapidly.

By the early 1950’s, not only the size, but also the character of the congregation had changed. From a membership of small shopkeepers and professionals who lived and worked in Greenwich, a new commuter population grew, contributing new views and ideas. The newcomers were warmly welcomed and the synthesis of old and new formed the basis for Temple Sholom. From the beginning, Temple Sholom has attracted, and welcomed, members from Greenwich as well as from neighboring communities, including Port Chester, Rye Brook, Armonk and Stamford.

In 1955, after years of hard work, Temple Sholom became a “Putnam Hill” neighbor to Christ Church (Episcopal), and a major religious influence, source of pride, accomplishment and stability.

In 1990, to accommodate the needs of a rapidly growing congregation and Religious School, a new building was erected on the site of the previous one. In 2000, because of even further growth, yet another large addition to the School wing, the Hershaft Pavillion, has been constructed to add 11 new classrooms as well as other educational facilities.

From our original ten families to a membership of 90 families in 1950, Temple membership has grown to include more than 650 families. From a Religious School serving a small number of children, there are now more than 325 students. From having just enough members for one minyan, the Temple now holds a primary High Holiday service with more than 1600 in attendance and a special family service with more than 500 in attendance.

The Ladies Auxiliary, founded in 1924, provided for the education of the children; the teaching of Jewish values in the home; social, religious and cultural experiences for its members; and projects for the benefit of the congregation. The present Sisterhood continues to fulfill the original goals.

Sharing a concern for Greenwich community welfare has always been of primary importance to our congregation. For many years the Temple has provided facilities for the Red Cross Blood Bank, pre-school vision screening, and other groups. Many ecumenical programs, such as the community Thanksgiving Service and a Martin Luther King memorial service are held at the Temple. The cordial relationship with our neighbor, Christ Church, has led to our joint sponsorship of Camp Sunbeam, a summer day camp for young children. We have sought to involve and teach others about Judaism through our House Beautiful and Judaica exhibits, and workshops and tours through the synagogue.

As the new members with their ideas were welcomed in the 1950’s, by “the natives”, so now are new and younger members welcomed. With them, Temple Sholom continues to be a vibrant, energetic and committed congregation.