Affiliation Reform Judaism Status Active Architectural type Synagogue Phone +1 212-838-5122 | Ecclesiastical or organizational status Synagogue Website centralsynagogue.org Opened 1872 Architect Henry Fernbach | |
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Location 646-652 Lexington Avenue, Manhattan, New York Address 652 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10022, USA Architectural style Moorish Revival architecture Similar Congregation Emanu‑El of New Y, Park Avenue Synagogue, Eldridge Street Synagogue, Dohány Street Synagogue, Temple Israel of the City of Ne Profiles | ||
oh freedom dayeinu mash up central synagogue rabbi buchdahl and cantor cadrain
The Central Synagogue (Congregation Ahavath Chesed) is located at 652 Lexington Avenue on the corner of E 55th Street, Manhattan, New York City, New York. It was built in 1872 in the Moorish Revival style as a copy of Budapest's Dohány Street Synagogue. It has been in continuous use by a congregation longer than any other in the city. The building was designed by Henry Fernbach.
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- oh freedom dayeinu mash up central synagogue rabbi buchdahl and cantor cadrain
- L cha dodi central synagogue friday february 7 2015
- Services
- Notable Clergy
- References
The dramatic style of the building was the subject of much debate during the construction. Some felt its excess would inspire envy and stand in the way of assimilation.
It is among the oldest synagogue buildings still standing in the United States. It was designated a National Historic Landmark on May 15, 1975. On Wednesdays at 12:45 p.m. a docent conducts a free tour, which begins at the front entrance.
The building was restored by 2001 in the original style after an accidental fire in August 1998. The roof and its supports were destroyed as a result of the fire. During this fire, the firefighters' sensitivity for the building saved all but the central pane in the rose window that dominates the eastern (Lexington Avenue) wall. The marble plaques on the north wall of the foyer honor the firefighters of the 8th Battalion of the New York City Fire Department.
L cha dodi central synagogue friday february 7 2015
Services
Sensitive to the evolving interests and needs of the Reform community, Central Synagogue explores both traditional and alternative modes of prayer. In addition to daily morning minyan, Shabbat and holiday services, and celebrations of lifecycle events, Central Synagogue offers Tot Shabbat for children, and healing and community services.