By Jordan Petteys.
Photographed by Nick Thomsen.
Having escaped persecution, obtained freedom and withstood the test of time, Congregation Mickve Israel represents the third oldest congregation in the United States. Bearing the first Torah Scrolls in America and a historic circumcision kit, it was founded by 41 Jews over 280 years ago as a place of worship that continues to cultivate an atmosphere of respect and acceptance in Savannah.
Nearly five months after Oglethorpe founded the colony in 1733, Jews living in England, including some who had fled persecution in Portugal, were welcomed into Savannah and given land to partition almost immediately. Their warm welcome was partially credited to a renowned Portuguese doctor, who treated the colony during the yellow fever epidemic in exchange for full rights in Savannah.
Though the first two synagogue buildings were originally established in what is now the Soho restaurant parking lot, the congregation has been practicing at their current location since 1878. Under a long line of servantship, Rabbi Robert Haas, Texas native, joined Mickve Israel as their 14th spiritual leader. “That’s one of the great things about this synagogue: the previous two were kind of started on accident and ours was started intentionally. They came here prepared to start the congregation; we have records from the congregation’s beginnings and some of the oldest records of Jewish living in this country,” Rabbi Haas said.
In balancing Hebrew tradition, religious rituals and American freedom, Mickve Israel has shifted from traditional, to orthodox, to reform and liberal practices since its beginning. “Everybody brings their own tennish to their pulpit, but also use what came before and what’s going on in the rest of the world,” Rabbi Haas said. “I’m the first Rabbi in our history to wear the Yamulke, and I wear it all time. My predecessor before me wore a robe, and I don’t wear a robe except around High Holidays. We try to meet everyone’s needs, which is sometimes difficult, but we do our best.”
Decorated with an array of timeless heirlooms, members and visitors are immersed in the congregation’s upbringing and ancestry. A host of presidential letters, including letters from George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and most 20th century presidents, are on display in the upstairs museum, as well one of the first Girl Scout leader certificates and documents officiating Mickve Israel in America. “Three of the five first Girl Scout leaders were in our congregation, and one of those leader’s daughters is still in our congregation. She’s a hundred years old. We’ve always been a part of this community, and we’ve always been welcoming. Our doors are always open to people visiting us.” Haas said. Constructed in a Neo-gothic style, the sanctuary has maintained the original Victorian elegance by displaying indigenous columns and upholstery from the late 1800’s. Authentic organ pipes and stained glass windows dating from the 19th century and from World War One contribute to the sanctuary’s rich history.
Mickve Israel maintains close relations with other organizations and houses of worship around Savannah, all grounded in historic upbringings. “In many ways we’re kind of like second, third or fourth cousins. I think it’s important to understand that Jews, Christians, people of all races and religions should be able to get together,” Rabbi Haas said. “Savannah is a great place to really welcome the stranger and make sure everybody is included. We want to teach everybody that the most important thing is to show respect.”
