The concept for a synagogue dedicated to the LBGT community was born in 1973. It has had a long and rich history since then, culminating in the opening of Congregation Beit Simchat Torah in April 2016. After forty-three years of wandering in Manhattan - and gathering thousands of supporters along the way - the congregation has finally found its home on the ground floor of a beautiful 1928 landmarked building, the Cass Gilbert.
Having visited a multitude of magnificent old world synagogues on the side streets, it was refreshing to enter a brand new, contemporary sanctuary. There is no stained glass, ornate decorations, or elaborate arks. The color scheme is a simple burgundy and dark blue with light, natural wood benches for seating. Every detail and accent was carefully thought out by a group of congregants together with the architect, Aari Ludvigsen. I repeatedly heard stories from the staff about what each piece represented and the history behind it. The ark is a true piece of art: There is a skylight above it, allowing the sun to shine down. Upon opening the doors, an iridescent braided piece of fabric is revealed. Behind that, a magnificent Moroccan brocade curtain opens to display the five Torahs, including one that survived the Holocaust. As Chaz Macrina, our tour guide, said, "Everything in the temple has a meaningful reason for being here."
Tom, the photographer for Manhattan Sideways, and I were shown every nook and cranny. The two men leading us around were very proud of their newly created environment. The small, elegant chapel downstairs gave me a tremendous sense of calm. I appreciated the amount of space that was dedicated to the kitchen, as most synagogues complain about how difficult it is to maneuver in this area. The children's room was impressive, with toys, games, puzzles, and books, neatly organized in cubbies. In addition to being a Green Building, the level of technology in place is incredible. There is an LED behind each name on the memorial walls; former members are upstairs and friends and family are downstairs. Even the brightly-colored orange and magenta bathrooms have a story behind them, told through the brilliantly conceived wallpaper.
I noticed the rainbow flag when we first entered the building, but it was not until we were standing by the doorway, getting ready to say our good-byes, that I inquired about it. Hanging from the wall is the original gay rights flag that was designed by Gilbert Baker in 1978. This has eight stripes, whereas today, we are more familiar with the simplified, six-color version. What an experience, what a story, and what a stunning synagogue - and the best part is that absolutely anyone and everyone is welcome.
