This Modern Orthodox Synagogue is housed in a beautiful old building on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. It was founded in 1893 and moved to this location when the Congregation was able to build this building in 1913. The Synagogue is listed in the U.S. National Registry of Historic Places. The full name is the Congregation Bnai Anshei Brzezany.

We took a tour of the building. Its really amazing to see and well worth a tour if you are interested in NYC history and architecture, even if you aren't a synagogue goer. Services will start again this coming Saturday morning . They are requiring reservations in advance to ensure compliance with corona virus protocols.

You can feel the history in this classic synagogue! Yet the rabbi is young and modern. He makes the ancient religion seem fresh and relevant in the hipster lower east side. Don't be afraid they welcome all types of Jewish seekers here.

With great appreciation this was the first Shul I ever attended as it was within walking distance within seconds. I spoke to the old young Rabbi who I believe is a great man. I had a spontaneous question about some genealogy I was explaining to a friend who did not know Genesis or Exodus. I was really upset I could not recall this and I knew I could ask the Rabbi as he was out front finishing a discussion with another. He instantly answered my question and asked what my interest was. I told he I was raised a catholic, but not longer accepted that teaching. Later, I acquired a complete Torah and began my studies. I would see the congregation there celebrating every Jewish holiday, I admired them and decided to email the Rabbi to see if I was allowed to attend. He suggested I come in Friday evening for the first Shabbat service. I really felt welcomed here and I was so impressed. I met two older guys who were equally welcoming. Sadly I moved from that area and now I live near no synagogue. I'm much further on my path having picked up the the Babylonian Talmud. Without the welcoming of this place I'm not sure where I would be on my path. I'm adopted so I did a DNA test as I came to the states as a baby. The test revealed the Ashkenazi DNA marker, but at that point i didn't need any assurance or confirmation as I had decided my path. I'm trying to move because it's a sad thing when you do not live near a Shul and have no access to a Rabbi.

We had a great meeting with Jeff!
He read to us from the Torah.

A beautiful synagogue in the lower East Side. Friendly community, and great service.