The Centre European du Judaism, or European Jewish Centre, stands as a beacon for Jewish cultural, educational, and community activities in Europe. Nestled in the vibrant 17th district of Paris, this center is dedicated to promoting Jewish heritage, identity, and values through a diverse array of services and programs.
President Emmanuel Macron inaugurated the European Centre of Judaism on October 29, 2019. Stéphane Maupin Architecture strategically positioned the center at the city’s gateway. Over 20 years ago, the city of Paris granted valuable land to the Jewish community for this project. The center spans approximately 54,000 square feet and includes a 600-seat synagogue, an auditorium with a black marble interior, exhibition halls, study and conference spaces, and a cultural center. Additionally, the center features a gym, offices, and a large terrace to accommodate a sukkah.
Serving as a cornerstone for the local Jewish community, the European Jewish Center offers religious services, cultural events, educational seminars, interfaith dialogue initiatives, and social welfare programs. It is a dynamic hub where Jewish individuals and families can come together, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
Notably, this 17th district is home to a significant Jewish population, with estimates suggesting that between 40,000 and 45,000 Jewish individuals reside here out of a total of 180,000 residents. This makes it the largest Jewish community in France and even in Europe. According to the census, one in four residents of the 17th arrondissement is of Jewish faith, highlighting the area’s rich Jewish heritage.
During a recent tour of the center, Mr. Simon Zini, a member, told the New York Jewish Travel Guide (NYJTG) about the center’s vibrant community life. “There are two services on Shabbat and one for the youth, which has 20 members. The regular services held at the Edmond J. Safra Synagogue, named in honor of Edmond Safra, a philanthropist, are partially funded with the support of the Edmond J. Safra Philanthropic Foundation and have about 200 to 250 congregants on Shabbat. Mr. Zini added that they offer services every morning and evening on weekdays, followed by a Torah class after each session.
He also highlighted the educational offerings of the center, particularly the Beth Midrash, which provides Hebrew classes for Sunday school students who do not attend regular Hebrew schools. This ensures that Jewish education is accessible to all children in the community.
Importantly, the synagogue operates without a formal membership structure. Instead, it is sustained through generous donations, fundraising events, and contributions during the holidays. This model underscores the communal spirit and collective responsibility that characterize the European Jewish Center.
Through its wide-ranging activities and outreach efforts, the European Jewish Center is committed to strengthening Jewish life in Europe. It serves as a platform for fostering connections and collaboration among Jewish communities across the continent, promoting understanding and respect for Jewish heritage and traditions. Whether through its religious, cultural, or educational initiatives, the European Jewish Centre continues to be a vital and enriching presence in the heart of Europe’s Jewish community.
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Story by Meyer Harroch, New York Jewish Travel Guide.com, and New York Jewish Guide.com
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