Our Story
Temple Israel has a long and rich history that dates back to the late 19th century, reflecting the growth and development of Charlotte’s Jewish community.
Early Foundations
In September 1895, a group of Jewish immigrants, primarily from Eastern Europe, organized the first formal Jewish congregation in Charlotte. They named themselves Agudath Achim, Hebrew United Brotherhood. The founding members, including Harris Miller, Benjamin Silverstein, and Mr. C. Lubin, sought to establish a place of worship and community for the growing Jewish population in the region.
Establishing a Permanent Home
By 1915, the congregation, now known as Temple Israel, had constructed its first building on Seventh Street. With a growing membership of over 100 families, the synagogue accommodated both Orthodox and Conservative minyans. Over time, the younger members of the congregation advocated for a shift toward Conservative Judaism, which led to mixed seating and the increased use of English in services.
Growth and Expansion
As the Jewish community in Charlotte expanded—from 720 people in 1937 to 2,000 by 1960—Temple Israel outgrew its first home. In 1949, the congregation relocated to a new synagogue on Dilworth Road in South Charlotte. By 1955, Temple Israel had become the largest Jewish congregation in the Carolinas, boasting more than 350 member families.
A Commitment to Inclusivity
In 1985, Temple Israel embraced egalitarian worship, granting women full participation in religious services, including reading from the Torah, leading prayers, and singing.
Moving to Shalom Park
Recognizing the need for an even larger and more modern facility, Temple Israel broke ground on a new synagogue in 1991 in Shalom Park. Designed by architects Dellinger and Lee, the remarkable new building was completed in 1992. One of its most striking features is the collection of stained glass windows. The beautiful windows, a heartfelt gift from Bill Gorelick and his brother Shelton, were dedicated to the new temple in honor of their beloved parents, Annie and Israel Gorelick.
These windows vividly narrate the story of the Five Books of Moses, beginning with Creation and culminating in God's guidance of Israel into the Promised Land.
The scenes unfold across the temple, with the left wall illustrating the story of Creation and the right wall depicting the dramatic exodus of the Jews from Egypt. At the heart of the display, the center panel features the iconic burning bush, where God spoke to Moses.
Temple Israel Today
Temple Israel remains a vibrant center of Jewish life in Charlotte, continuing its legacy of faith, education, and community engagement. From its humble beginnings in the late 19th century to its current home in Shalom Park, the congregation has grown alongside the city, fostering a deep sense of heritage and belonging for generations of Jewish families.
