I first visited the visited the Temple years before while completing my Masters of Divinity at Candler School of Theology. I knew when I started this photo project that I had to return.
In 1958, white supremacists bombed the building to threaten the community's advocacy for racial equality. Their Rabbi shared these words in the first Shabbat afterwards: "This despicable act as made brighter the flame of courage and renewed in splendor the fires of determination and dedication. It has reached the hearts of men everywhere and roused the conscience of a people united in righteousness. All of us together shall rear from the rubble of devastation a city and a land in which all men are truly brothers and none shall make them afraid." - Rabbi Jacob Rothschild. A column (seen below) of that original section of the building is on display in the sacred space with more details about the history of the community.
In 1958, white supremacists bombed the building to threaten the community's advocacy for racial equality. Their Rabbi shared these words in the first Shabbat afterwards: "This despicable act as made brighter the flame of courage and renewed in splendor the fires of determination and dedication. It has reached the hearts of men everywhere and roused the conscience of a people united in righteousness. All of us together shall rear from the rubble of devastation a city and a land in which all men are truly brothers and none shall make them afraid." - Rabbi Jacob Rothschild. A column (seen below) of that original section of the building is on display in the sacred space with more details about the history of the community.
One of my favorite photos from my visit to the Temple displays the eternal light (Ner Tamid). It reminds of the resilience and compassion of the Temple congregation. In 1913, Leo Frank, a member of the Temple congregation was lynched by an Atlanta mob. After lynching him, the leaders of the mob climbed Stone Mountain where they reformed the KKK attempting to spread hate and violence.
Despite the hostility, the Temple congregation continued to be a brave, resilient community. During my visit to the Temple, I was inspired to learn about all the ways they are showing compassion in and around the Atlanta community. Visit the Temple website to learn more about their history and their good work in the community to spread love and compassion.
