A Note From Our Senior Rabbi, Shoshanah Conover

Welcome to Temple Sholom of Chicago.  For 155 years, we have been a sacred community that embraces, inspires and matters. In 1867,  a few Jewish pioneers forged a new path on the north side of Chicago, supporting one another through the effects of the Civil War and later the Chicago Fire. With the Great Depression looming, the congregation of a few hundred people broke ground on our current building in 1929 with the sanctuary at its center.  They communicated their vision clearly: Come what may, this synagogue would be a sanctuary of scholarship, prayer, and community.  

 At this moment in Temple Sholom’s rich history, we are called to clarify who we are and how we will allow Divine inspiration—a sense of spirituality and sacred responsibility—to rest at the center of our community.   

We embrace a diverse community with people of varied religious backgrounds, ages, races, gender identities, abilities, sexual orientation, and economic status. This inclusive environment allows all of us to feel a sense of belonging in which we continue to connect and grow. We inspire through engaging and warm prayerful experiences with the spirit of Torah guiding us.  We matter to one another— though a large community, we create smaller communities of meaning and friendship.  We know each other’s names, stories, passions and concerns.  And we matter in the world.  Known for its deep commitment to learning and action, 3480 North Lake Shore Drive is the first address in Chicago for scholars, thought leaders, and those ready to actively pursue tikkun olam.    

We invite you to find yourself in our sacred community.  We’ll be looking for you! 

Rabbi Shoshanah Conover
rabbiconover@sholomchicago.org