Young Israel of Manhattan

Founded in 1912, Young Israel of Manhattan began as a Friday night lecture series by young Orthodox Jewish men and women on the Lower East Side. It eventually grew into the Young Israel Synagogue of Manhattan and the global Young Israel movement, countering the influence of Reform Judaism and secularism. The synagogue expanded its programs, added a youth program, and supported Jewish communities during World War II. In the 1950s, it enlarged its youth department and set up the Intercollegiate Council. Despite changes in the neighborhood, the synagogue has remained a leading institution, providing spiritual guidance and community for all who seek it.