Why evict Jeshuat Israel?

In regard to the eviction of Congregation Jeshuat Israel from Touro Synagogue headed up by Louis Solomon of Congregation Shearith Israel, New York City, I have one question, “why”?

Congregation Jeshuat Israel whose congregants, guests, family members, and visitors have been worshipping in Touro Synagogue, for over a century? (Yes! Over 100 years) why evict them?

Congregation Jeshuat Israel has supplied a full-time rabbi, who not only has provided services all year around, but also has been available to conduct funerals, marriages, bar and bat mitzvahs, bris, naming ceremonies, visit the sick, and be part of the Newport community. Why evict them? Congregation Jeshuat Israel provides a rabbi who participates in “life cycle” events for the entire Jewish community, for over a century? Why evict them? Congregation Jeshuat Israel has provided Jewish worship services every Shabbat, all Jewish holidays and minyans for other occasions, for over a century. Why evict them?

Congregation Jeshuat Israel has maintained the sanctuary and building daily, for over a century? Why evict them? Congregation Jeshuat Israel has paid for and supervised at least three major renovations, without any financial or otherwise assistance from Sherith Israel, for over a century? Why evict them? Congregation Jeshuat Israel has helped to maintain a Hebrew School for the Jewish community for over a century? Why evict them?

Why incorporate another congregation with the intent to take over Touro Synagogue when there is a viable congregation, Jeshuat Israel, worshipping there, for over a century? Why not work together for the betterment of the Jewish community instead of splintering the congregation? This act is especially egregious before the High Holiday season 5784? Why evict Congregation Jeshuat Israel?

Susan Woythaler

Member of Congregation Jeshuat Israel, associate member of Temple Shalom and associate member of Congregation Beth David.