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27 Jun 2000s

Posted at 18:15h in Uncategorized

Early 2000s – We’re not just getting better—we’re getting older!  CRS took on some major capital projects in this era.  Accessibility and space upgrades ensure optimal access and worship experience for our congregants. 2000: Rebecca Garfein appointed first female cantor; CRS building and bimah made handicapped accessible. 2001: Rodeph Sholom...

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27 Jun Rabbi Robert N. Levine

Posted at 18:04h in Uncategorized

1990s – In 125 years, Congregation Rodeph Sholom has had four senior rabbis.  Our number four , Rabbi Robert N. Levine, is celebrating 25 years along with the shul’s 175th.   The 1990s also saw CRS making a bold move with new clergy. 1990: Janet Neuberger elected as first...

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27 Jun Tikkun olam

Posted at 18:14h in Uncategorized

1980s – Tikkun olam, in the form of sewing, helping the poor, and making contributions to worthy causes were part of CRS from the first day.  In this era, we upped our game considerably. 1981: Concerned Citizens Committee established as CRS’ social action and community outreach arm. 1983: In response...

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27 Jun Education 70s

Posted at 18:13h in Uncategorized

1970s – Education was a top priority for Rodeph Sholom, which made some first-ever moves by a Reform congregation.  1970: Rodeph Sholom Day School, first in U.S. sponsored by a Reform congregation, started as pilot project with kindergarten and 1st grade; Parents Educational Guild founded to represent parents of...

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27 Jun Hirschberg and Biran

Posted at 18:04h in Uncategorized

1960s—With early waves of immigration now mostly a faint memory, younger generations were interested in reclaiming their identity, through learning Hebrew and travel to Israel.  The Seven Day War of 1967 proved to be a strong rallying point for support of Israel and Jewish pride. 1963: Gunter Hirschberg ordained and...

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27 Jun Citizenship class

Posted at 18:04h in Uncategorized

1940s and 50s – Rodeph Sholom worked hard to support the war effort, and to be essential part serving earlier pioneering generations as they grew into their retirement years in the 1950s.  The 1950s was also an era of new view of early childhood education as a foundation for a...

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27 Jun Street Shul

Posted at 18:10h in Uncategorized

1920s-30s—CRS roared through the 1920s in robust health, purchasing land for what is our current building and having an architect draw up plans.  The early 30’s continued a trend at CRS that is still with us to this day—welcoming clergy and staff who choose to spend their entire careers at...

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27 Jun “Being American”

Posted at 18:10h in Uncategorized

1900s & 10s – As Jews began to assume leadership positions in political life and in industry,  Jewish identity shifted to a strong emphasis on “being American.”  Those of an older generation were disinclined to pass along fluency in Yiddish to their children and grandchildren.  This was also an...

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27 Jun An Era of Prosperity

Posted at 18:05h in Uncategorized

1880s – An era of prosperity paved the way to assuring the future of Judaism in America, through founding new institutions and keeping up with the congregants. 1884: Funds raised for relief of Jews suffering from pogroms in Russia. 1886: Rabbi Aaron Wise instrumental in founding Jewish Theological Seminary, espousing...

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27 Jun Picture of Mount Sinai, formerly Jew’s Hospital

Posted at 18:05h in Uncategorized

1870s —In this era CRS functioned as a shul working steadily to ensure that Jews had wide and equal access to American health care and social welfare. 1871: Passover collection made for Mt. Sinai Hospital in NYC; formerly known as Jews’ Hospital. 1875:  Rabbi Aaron Wise, father of Stephen Wise,...

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