Temple Emanuel is one of the oldest Jewish communities located in the South that is not in a big city. What brought us here, when it was far more typical for Jewish families to relocate to big cities with many of their own to mix with? Well, Gastonia was a ‘big’ city at one time. Numerous mills (some owned by Jews), produced many jobs which resulted in a prosperous downtown with many Jewish shop owners. Tiring of travel to Charlotte, the group formed a Congregation in 1913 and erected the Synogogue that stands today.

Today, our small congregation is a diverse, welcoming interfaith group with people from many places and backgrounds. We are growing and evolving in how we celebrate and congregate!

Our current leader who has been with us for 20+ years, is getting ready to retire. As we look for a new Rabbi we have several dedicated members who lead us in prayer and song each week. Our Vital Sunday School, led by Morah Rochelle, covers classes from grades K-through Bar/Bat Mitzvah age. We welcome you to explore who we are through this site and then come meet us in person!

Feel free to call or send us an email !