3 minute read
An Invitation to Celebrate and Connect at Temple Emanuel, Gastonia
October 2024
By Peter Blau
Temple Emanuel, the Reform synagogue in Gaston County, invites unaffiliated Jews and their families to join us this High Holiday season. There is no need to buy tickets or commit to membership — just bring your spirit and, if you wish, a donation as is customary. Services will be conducted by Dr. Charlie Brown, our Spiritual Leader Emeritus, who has been leading the Temple in prayer for the Days of Awe since 2001.
One hundred eleven years ago, in 1913, the Jews of Gaston County, drawn by the burgeoning textile industry, began to gather for prayer in homes, empty storefronts, and hotel ballrooms. After a dozen years of this nomadic worship, they finally raised enough money to commission the building of their own synagogue. By 1929, Temple Emanuel’s building was completed, equal in size and stature to the established local churches, and crowned with a Star of David. This was a symbol of Jewish strength and resilience during a time of rampant antisemitism.
However, the joy of completing the synagogue was soon overshadowed by the Great Depression, which struck just as the last nail was hammered into place. The temple faced the very real threat of foreclosure, but thanks to the determination and sacrifices of the Jewish community—who freely volunteered their services and gave what little they could spare—the temple was saved.
These Jewish pioneers were more than just survivors; they were builders of a legacy. Many of them became successful mill owners or merchants catering to the textile families and businesses. Their perseverance and hard work ensured that the temple not only survived but became a cornerstone of Jewish life in Gaston County.
Much of the textile industry has moved overseas, and the founding families have dispersed. However, the Temple is growing once again, thanks to the Jewish professionals and executives relocating to the Charlotte area and living in the attractive communities to the west of the city.
“Our Jewish community is growing once again, and we welcome prospective members who want to try us out — or any Jewish families or individuals who just want a welcoming place to celebrate the New Year,” says Temple president, Stephanie Rauch. “Our founders—including my own grandparents — persevered to leave us this big, beautiful building, with plenty of room for High Holiday guests.”
Temple Emanuel continues to be a beacon of Jewish life and values in the region. As a Reform synagogue, we are serious about advancing Jewish learning, raising new generations of Jewish children, and helping to repair the world (tikkun olam). We offer an unconditional welcome, regardless of your Jewish experience or level of observance, and our community is proud of its diversity.
Beyond our walls, Temple Emanuel has a rich history of community outreach and interfaith cooperation. We are a founding member of The Trialogue, a collaboration among the three Abrahamic faiths, working together to foster better community relations. We are also a supporting congregation of the Crisis Assistance Ministry of Christians and Jews, helping families facing economic hardship.
Join us at Temple Emanuel this High Holiday season to connect with a community that values its rich history while embracing the inclusive spirit of today.
Advance registration is required to ensure security. Please call the Temple at (704) 8651541 or email templeemanuel18@gmail.com.
