Welcome to the Jewish Center of Sussex County. Our synagogue is here to serve the Jewish families in our area. It is our place to pray; educate our children and ourselves; celebrate the holidays; and enjoy social gatherings.
Our records Show the first Jewish family settled in Newton in about 1890. In 1892 another Jewish family moved to Branchville. In the early 1900's Jewish immigration was on the rise and more families moved into Sussex County. The majority of these immigrants were Orthodox and would meet at each other's homes to worship. On High Holy Days a rabbi from NYC would be hired to conduct services.
In the early 1920's the congregation purchased a private house (our current location) to provide living quarters for the rabbi and a small synagogue. The congregation was called "Rueben Shimon" after the father of Nathan and Solomon Fogelson. During the "Great Depression" years the congregation could no longer afford a full-time rabbi and efforts were made through the formation of YMHA and YWHA groups to reorganize the Hebrew School. In 1936 the building was remodeled and a cemetery was purchased on North Church Road in Hardyston.
In 1951 a large addition was built to house the sanctuary and renovations provided class and meeting rooms. On August 30, 1951 the new synagogue was dedicated; a permanent Rabbi was hired; and the name of the congregation was changed to "The Jewish Center of Sussex County".
Today's Jewish Center has a congregation of approximately 85 families. Our Hebrew and Sunday school is thriving with 42 students. Additionally, we offer adult education classes 4 nights per week. Our Sisterhood is affiliated with the Women's league for Conservative Judaism and is extremely active and our Men's Club meets monthly for breakfast and community service projects.
There is always something going on at the Jewish Center of Sussex County so please feel free to stop by and get to know us.