Resolution Commemorating the 150th Anniversary of Temple Sholom of Chicago, Illinois
WHEREAS, The spiritual, social and educational benefits conferred by religious institutions play a vital role in developing the moral fabric of a responsible citizenry; and
WHEREAS, It is the tradition of the State of Illinois to pay tribute to enduring religious institutions that contribute to the ethical and spiritual values of their communities; and
WHEREAS, Temple Sholom has been among Chicago's largest and most influential congregations of Reform Judaism; and
WHEREAS, By means of its resilience and commitment to spiritual, educational and universal values, Temple Sholom has'been a safe haven and spiritual home for thousands of Jewish immigrants and their descendants to remain grounded in their traditions while becoming integral components of the wider community; and
WHEREAS, September 27, 1867 was the founding date of the congregation originally called North Chicago Hebrew Congregation. In 1868 a small building at the corner of Wells and Superior was purchased. After the 1871 fire the congregation used temporary quarters until 1876; and
WHEREAS, North Chicago Hebrew Congregation changed it name to Temple Sholom (A Sanctuary of Peace) in 1909; and
WHEREAS, Temple Sholom worked closely with several churches and other religious
groups, fighting for the freedoms of people of color, and famously providing a platform
for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to speak to the Chicago and the world on October 21st,
1964. This event, unsurprisingly, packed the Sholom Sanctuary with members and non-members, Jews and non-Jews alike; and
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WHEREAS, Temple Sholom has been a leader promoting social justice and interfaith relations that extend beyond religious, racial and cultural barriers; now, therefor,
BE IT RESOLVED, That we, the Mayor and the City Council members of the City of Chicago hereby assembled on this the 24th day of July, 2017, do hereby commemorate Temple Sholom on their 150t...
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