About Us
Our History | Religious Services | New Members | Location
Our History – Tradition and Change
Jews first settled in Charleston in 1695, establishing one of the first ongoing synagogues in the New World. In colonial times, Charleston was the largest Jewish community in the country. Synagogue Emanu-El was founded in this historic Jewish community in 1947, the first Conservative congregation in South Carolina, an affiliate of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. We are a modern Conservative congregation that emphasizes the continuity of Jewish traditions while being responsive to the challenges of a changing world. We are committed to fostering a community of learning and caring.
Our synagogue celebrated its 75th anniversary in October 2022, and we have been located at our current address since 1980. Read more about our history here.
Religious Services
Synagogue Emanu-El observes all the Jewish holidays, always striving to enhance the beauty and meaning of its religious services and celebrations.
Our central pillars of observance are the Shabbat Morning Services with a Kiddush on Saturdays. Our High Holy Day services convey a very special warmth and spirituality.
These services are also available via livestream at www.emanu-el.com/streaming.
Morning prayer services are held every morning at 7:15am via Zoom. To join them at that time, click here.
Click here to learn more about our services.
New Members
Emanu-El’s traditions and customs actively meet the needs of a very broad spectrum of the Charleston Jewish Community. Both families and single persons are most welcome in our congregation. We try to provide a sense of extended family in times of joy and sorrow. We are available and together with you for all the rites of passage throughout the entire life cycle. We always gladly welcome questions about our traditions, and we are always happy for the opportunity to be a sounding board and a listening ear in times of need.
We enjoy the full participation of women in all aspects of Jewish life and religious rituals. We welcome every Jewish person whatever his or her level of Jewish knowledge.
Our newest and youngest members are as deeply involved in synagogue life as our founding families. In fact, our new members are the nourishment for continued growth, vitality, and the enhancement of the Jewish spirit.
Please get in touch with us through our office for more information!
Location
Synagogue Emanu-El’s impressive complex is centrally located within the greater Charleston area. Near I-26, the synagogue is built on five serenely wooded acres in one of the beautiful residential sections of the West Ashley area. Another convenience is our close proximity to Addlestone Hebrew Academy.
5 Windsor Drive, Charleston SC, 29407