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Congregation Shearith Israel

Congregation Shearith Israel is one of the oldest Jewish synagogues in the United States, established in 1654 in New York City. It is a Sephardic congregation, primarily of Spanish and Portuguese Jewish heritage. The synagogue serves as a religious and cultural center, offering Jewish worship services, education, and community programs. Its historical significance lies in being a pioneer for Jewish communal life in America, blending traditional Jewish rituals with adapting to American society. Shearith Israel also maintains it's heritage through preserved architecture and archival collections, playing a vital role in American Jewish history and faith continuity.