Belfast Hebrew Congregation

The Belfast Hebrew Congregation is the Jewish community in Belfast, Northern Ireland. It follows the Ashkenazi Orthodox ritual under the leadership of Rabbi David Kale. The congregation was established in 1870 and has seen fluctuations in membership over the decades. Notable figures such as Daniel Joseph Jaffe played a key role in its founding. The community has worshipped in different buildings, including the Great Victoria Street synagogue and the current one on Somerton Road. The synagogue on Somerton Road is circular in design, a distinctive feature among synagogues. The congregation’s history includes prominent rabbis like Rabbi Yitzhak HaLevi Herzog, who later became Chief Rabbi of Ireland and Israel. Otto Jaffe, a former Lord Mayor of Belfast, served as life-president of the congregation. The synagogue houses a plaque commemorating the millions of Jews killed during the Holocaust. The building also features a candelabrum and eternal light crafted by Israeli sculptor Nehemia Azaz. The Ark doors are adorned with bronze and silver letters, adding to the synagogue’s unique character. Visitors to the synagogue on Somerton Road find a circular space with a raised platform on either side. The roof is supported by concrete beams shaped like a Star of David. The interior includes a memorial plaque in memory of Holocaust victims. The synagogue’s design and artefacts reflect both its religious significance and historical depth. The surrounding area offers a quiet setting for reflection and learning about the community’s heritage.