Salt Lake City’s longest-running and largest synagogue, Congregation Kol Ami, celebrated its 50th anniversary on Sunday night.
The congregation, consisting of members, friends, and supporters from diverse backgrounds, gathered to honor the past and look towards the future.
The history of Congregation Kol Ami exemplifies how people with differences can come together over shared values and a greater good.
In 1973, two separate congregations, Congregation B’nai Israel and Congregation Montefiore, merged to form the unique and rare collegiate synagogue that exists today.
The special celebration took place at Heritage Park, where a gala was held, and members shared old photo albums, reminiscing about the memories created over the past 50 years in Salt Lake City.
Many individuals expressed their gratitude for finding a vibrant community and a place they can call home.
The congregation has experienced significant growth, with a 27% increase in membership in recent years.
Prominent speakers at the event included Lieutenant Governor Henderson, Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall, and Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson.
Their presence highlighted the importance of Congregation Kol Ami in the local community and their commitment to fostering inclusivity and understanding.
Looking ahead, the members of Congregation Kol Ami are excited to see what the next 50 years hold.
Being Jewish, they believe, means belonging to a community where others truly understand and appreciate their heritage, fostering a sense of unity and belonging.
Congregation Kol Ami continues to serve as a beacon of Jewish faith and culture in Salt Lake City, welcoming all who seek to join their vibrant community.
