Jewish Synagogues in Oklahoma City

Author: Shane Wauhob

Jewish synagogues in Oklahoma City are the link that keeps Jewish communities in the city together and well-connected. Temple B’nai Israel and the Emanuel Synagogue are sister synagogues and two of the most prominent in OKC.

The Reform Jewish congregation of Temple B’nai Israel, located at 4901 North Pennsylvania, Oklahoma City, is the oldest active Jewish congregation in the state of Oklahoma. Formed in May 1903, the congregation was led by Rabbi Joseph Blatt from 1906 to 1946, Rabbi Joseph Levenson till 1976, and Rabbi A. David Packman till 2004, and is currently led by Rabbi Barry Cohen who took over on July 1, 2004.

Sister synagogue to the Temple B’nai Israel, Emanuel Synagogue is an egalitarian, traditional and conservative synagogue. Home to around 200 individuals and member families, the congregation was founded on June 17, 1904. It’s a congregation where women participate along with men in the religious activities. The synagogue emphasizes preserving its heritage, and has the only morning minyan in OKC. Another point of emphasis of the Emanuel Synagogue is the study of the Torah and its relevance to the modern world. Some members of the Emanuel Synagogue also belong to Temple B’nai Israel.

The Chabad Community Center is another center for Jewish learning and experience in Oklahoma City. The Center offers a wide range of exciting programs for people of the Jewish faith, including the Passover Seder, culinary programs, lectures and discussions. It’s a spiritual companion to any Jew, educating them on various aspects of the faith, including the heritage to which a Jew belongs.

The Jewish synagogues in Oklahoma City are still active in the cultural scene of the vibrant city.