Jewish Historical Society of Greater Hartford

Hist

ric Hartf

rd Synag

gues

An active communal life has always sprung up wherever Jews have settled. Some organizations, such as Sisterhoods or Brotherhoods, are synagogue-based and provide social opportunities, while also supporting their individual congregations in various ways. Youth groups are also important and offer activities and programs designed to inspire a strong connection to the Jewish people. Moreover, synagogues historically have served as a central place for the celebration of High Holidays and life cycle events, such as weddings and Bar and Bat Mitzvahs.

Synagogue life is celebratory in a variety of ways, through ritual and holiday worship, nuptials, dedications, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, and the special honoring of individuals who uniquely serve the well-being of their community. While practice, participation, and the nature of events celebrating communal life may vary between individual congregations, the common themes of reverence and celebration for the gift of life in the activities of synagogues is both prevalent and readily inspiring.