Congregation Adath Jeshurun in Elizabeth, affectionately known as “The Murray Street Shul,” celebrated its 101st anniversary last Sunday with a gala dinner and awards ceremony held at the Union YMCA-YWCA. The event was attended by Elizabeth’s longtime Mayor Chris Bolwage, who extended congratulations and good wishes for the upcoming holiday of Chanukah. He then visited every table, exchanging light-hearted conversation with the children and adult members of the congregation.

Several members of the shul spoke briefly, followed by Rabbi Shmuel Burnstein presenting awards to numerous members for their devoted service and efforts. The Goodman family, who traveled from South America just to join in the festivities, has also remained active in the congregation remotely by attending the Zoom shiurim. Rabbi Burnstein commented that their dinner has no “guest of honor,” because everyone is a guest of honor! He also acknowledged those who make the long walk to shul, and the children who coordinated and created the Gedolim Fair, complete with a robust display of original posters and hand-designed art.

By Ellie Wolf