Wednesday, April 27, 2022

First Congregation Sons of Israel

First Congregation Sons of Israel

161 Cordova St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

April 7, 2022

The First Congregation Sons of Israel is the first-ever oldest Synagogue built in St. Augustine. Built by the congregation in 1923. The Synagogue has a welcoming and friendly nature and aims to enhance Jewish spirituality in families. They embrace diversity and hold services on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings, as well as hosting Jewish holidays like Passover.

Exterior:

Exterior:

Artifact: 
These beautiful glass-stained windows were obtained in the year 1958, and installed by Rabbi Jacobs and Mrs. Dora Tarlinsky's three daughters. The windows sustained damage during Hurricane Matthew which stained and leaded the glass windows. But, by 2012 the windows were restored by Ken Hardeman, the great-grandson of the original artist.

Artifact:
Attached to the ceiling of the Synagogue is the star of David. During Hurricane Matthew when the synagogue was damaged the roof ceiling fell. Flagler students helped craft, paint, and attach the Star of David to the ceiling. The star represents both Israel and faith. 

Image in Conversation:
New Western Wall Prayer Space Highlights Wider Divide Among Jews - The New  York Times
Western Wall
Jerusalem
The Western Wall located in the Old City of Jerusalem is a place of prayer sacred to Jewish people. Every year thousands of people visit to recite prayers that are either spoken or placed inside the walls. It is the holiest site in Judaism.

Image in Conversation:
Visiting the Temple Mount and Dome of the Rock - Tourist Israel
Temple Mount
Jerusalem
Temple Mount, located in Jerusalem, is one of the holiest sites in Judaism. It is said to be the place where Abraham took his son, Isaac, to prove his devotion to God. It is due to the religious importance of the mountain Temple Mount is found, that it became holy. It is important in Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. 

Literature Passage:
Parable of the Sower
Octavia Butler
Embrace diversity.
Unite-
Or be divided

I chose this excerpt from Parable of the Sower because of the idea of uniting. The First Congregation Sons of Israel website highlights the idea of diversity in their synagogue. In holy sites, you will often see division between religious groups and countries, but one must remember that it's better for humans to be united than separated. 

Creative Component:
As a response, I drew the Star of David to highlight the Jewish faith. 

More information on:
https://www.firstcongregationsonsofisrael.com/


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First Congregation Sons of Israel

First Congregation Sons of Israel 161 Cordova St, St. Augustine, FL 32084 April 7, 2022 The First Congregation Sons of Israel is the first-e...