Our Historic Congregation - Temple Concord Syracuse

Our History

Founded in 1839, Rooted in Tradition, Growing into the Future

Temple Concord is proud to be the ninth-oldest Jewish congregation in the United States. Our story began on September 1, 1839, when a group of German Jewish peddlers founded the Society of Concord in the back room of Bernheim and Block’s wholesale notion store in Syracuse. They soon moved to more comfortable quarters in a member’s office and, by 1841, hired their first rabbi, Abraham Guzenhauser. Under his guidance, the congregation incorporated and established its first cemetery.

In 1851, the congregation built its first permanent synagogue at Harrison and Mulberry Streets—an impressive structure lauded by the local press. But even in a time of growth, internal differences emerged. Debates over ritual observance—between Orthodox traditions and the emerging Reform movement—ultimately led to a split in 1861. The majority, favoring Reform practices, introduced changes like organ music, mixed-gender family pews, English translations of Hebrew prayers, and choral singing.

The new building housed a growing disagreement among the members of the Congregation on matters of ritual observance. Torn between those who wished to continue with Orthodox traditions and those who wanted to move towards Reform practice, the congregation splintered in 1861. The majority of congregants, including the President, succeeded in adopting the Reform innovations of organ music, choir singing, English translations of Hebrew prayers and family pews for men and women.

In 1883, Temple Concord began a new chapter with Rabbi Adolph Guttman, who served for 36 years. An Austrian immigrant and dedicated Reform leader, Rabbi Guttman embraced the values of integration and civic responsibility, encapsulated in his motto: "Creed and Deed."

The congregation flourished under his leadership and, in 1911, dedicated its current temple building. In 1919, Rabbi Benjamin Friedman became Temple Concord’s first American-born rabbi, serving for 50 years. He modernized worship, ended the reserved seating system, and appointed the first women to the Board of Trustees.

Over time, with generous support from our members, Temple Concord expanded its facilities, including the addition of a Religious School wing in 1961. Rabbi Theodore Levy led the congregation from 1969 to 1990, followed by Rabbi Sheldon Ezring, who served until 2009 and now holds the title of Rabbi Emeritus.

Rabbi Daniel J. Fellman continued our legacy into the 21st century, serving until 2020. As of July 1, 2023, we are honored to welcome Rabbi Ilan Emanuel as our newest spiritual leader.

A Living Legacy

Today, Temple Concord remains a vibrant and inclusive spiritual home. We cherish our historic roots while embracing the future with open hearts. Our congregation reflects the diversity, values, and spirit of Reform Judaism—guided by tradition, strengthened by community, and committed to meaningful change.

Based on research by Natalie Kalette and Ezra Greenhouse's "Society of Concord: 1839-1979, a Triumph of Dedication and Faith," printed in the 140th Anniversary booklet and available in the Temple's historical exhibit, and B.G. Rudolph's "From a Minyan to a Community: A History of the Jews in Syracuse" (Syracuse University Press, 1970), available in the Temple library.