Congregation Jeshuat Israel
Touro Synagogue, dedicated in 1763, is the oldest synagogue building in the United States. A structure of exquisite beauty and design, steeped in history and ideals, the synagogue is considered one of the ten most architecturally distinguished buildings of 18th century America and the most historically significant Jewish building in the United States. The congregation was founded in 1658 by the descendants of ‘Marranos’ who fled the Inquisitions in Spain and Portugal and who themselves left the Caribbean seeking the greater religious tolerance that Rhode Island offered. In his famous letter to the “Hebrew congregation at Newport,” written in 1790, President George Washington pledged that our new nation would give “to bigotry no sanction and to persecution no assistance.” Touro Synagogue is a symbol of religious freedom for all Americans. It was designated a National Historic Site in 1946. Each year, over 30,000 visitors cross the synagogue threshold to pray, to see its magnificent interior and to hear its remarkable story. Services at Touro Synagogue are orthodox and follow the Nusach Sefard liturgy.
Prayer Services at Touro Synagogue – Congregation Jeshuat Israel
Touro Synagogue, the home of Congregation Jeshuat Israel, has approximately 140 member families. The congregation sponsors religious, educational, social and cultural programs and activities. Lifecycle events including Bar/Bat Mitzvot and weddings are frequently held at Touro Synagogue. All services and religious activities are under the direction of Rabbi Dr. Marc Mandel, the spiritual leader of Touro Synagogue.
Shabbat services are held year round on Friday evening and Saturday morning. Touro Synagogue holds orthodox services and uses the Nusach Sephard prayerbook. There is separate seating for men and for women. We ask visitors to dress appropriately. Ties and jackets are not required for men. Women may wear slacks. No shorts are permitted on Friday night and Saturday morning. No sleeveless clothing is permitted at any time.
Weekday Services
Touro Synagogue does not hold regular weekday services during the winter season. Weekday shacharit and minchah-maariv services are held in the summer from July 1 through September 1. For further information about minyanim, please contact Rabbi Mandel at 401-847-4794 ext. 203 or email RabbiMandel@tourosynagogue.org?subject=Services .
Fall and Winter Services
January 17 and January 31 Friday night learners services begin at 5:30 pm.
October 1 – March 8
Friday Evenings
6:00 pm
Saturday Mornings
8:45 am
For additional information, please contact the Touro Synagogue administrator, at 401-847-4794 x201 or cji@tourosynagogue.org