History of Congregation Adath Israel, Cincinnati Ohio

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1933, unanimous approval was given to a plan for a combined graduation and confirmation service by the Religious School on a date other than Shavuoth. Thus, for the first time in this house of worship committed to traditional Judaism, girls became eligible for confirmation.

In January 1945, at the suggestion of J.David Jacobs, the Board of Trustees created a Planning Commission, composed of Mr. Jacobs, Chairman, Louis Weiland, Maurice P. Beck, Jack I. Bogdan, William Hirschfeld, Mrs. Abe Berman and Mrs. Samuel Ostrov. Due to the exceptional growth and expansion of the Synagogue and its activities, the Board, on recommendation of the Planning Commission, decided to inaugurate the following: Engaging an Assistant Rabbi; re-establishing of the Friday Night Services; publication of a monthly Bulletin; improvement of the lighting and heating system; a modest increase in the price of seats; beautification of the cemetery.

On Oct. 31st, 1945, Rabbi Goldfeder, whose home was in Springfield, Mass., was elected Assistant Rabbi. Before long, due to his energy and vivaciousness, he became an Associate Rabbi and right hand of Rabbi Feinberg. Upon the demise of Rabbi Feinberg, Rabbi Goldfeder became the spiritual leader of the congregation.

The dream of the devoted workers in the congregation of a debt-free Synagogue became a reality in the late fall of 1945. A mortgage-burning ceremony on Dec. 9, 1945, became an occasion for rejoicing. John Stilipass was Chairman of the event, and Dr.Lurie was toastmaster at the festive dinner. Rabbis Reinberg and Goldfeder participated in the program. Others who took part were Louis Weiland, Mrs.Harold Dine, President of the Sisterhood, Jack I.Bogdan, President of the Ments Club, Mr. Glass, Cantor Emil Rosen, Sigmund Effron, violinist, and Babette Effron, pianist.

In September 1947 the Congregation adopted an amendment to the constitution which provided for representation of women on the Board of Trustees. It stipulated that the President of Adath Israel Sisterhood should automatically become a member of the Board, together with one other