Congregation Shearith Israel (The Spanish & Portuguese Synagogue)

Also known as the Spanish & Portuguese Synagogue, Congregation Shearith Israel has long been a pillar in the American Jewish community. Established in 1754 by 23 Dutch Jews, Congregation Shearith Israel was the only Jewish congregation in New York City and the sole provider for New York Jewish community's needs until 1825. As the city's Jewish community grew, so did the congregation and its reach. Shearith Israel is responsible for creating three of the most prominent Jewish religious organization in the United States: the Jewish Theological Seminary, the Orthodox Union, and the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. While Shearith Israel is an Orthodox community, it was also instrumental in the founding of the Conservative Judaism movement. Today, Shearith Israel is a thriving global community with strong traditions and a unwavering commitment to the future of Judaism.