Kiever Synagogue

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Kiever Synagogue
Kiever Synagogue

The congregation of Rodfei Sholem Anshei Kiev, commonly known as the "Kiever", dates back to 1912. Several men living in the Ward decided to start a synagogue that would be run according to their traditions of Orthodox Judaism. Their occupations were typical of new immigrants, working as carpenters, blacksmiths, tailors, and peddlers. Services at this time were held in a rented house on Centre Avenue. In 1917, the Kiever acquired a house at 25 Bellevue Avenue near Kensington Market for $6000. One of Toronto’s most prominent spiritual leaders of the time, Rabbi Meyer H. Levy, was invited to lead the celebrations. It was not until 1923 that the Kiever congregation raised enough funds to build a synagogue large enough to accommodate its growing numbers. The Synagogue was completed in 1927, after three years of construction. Rabbi Solomon Langner became the spiritual leader of the congregation and continued in this capacity until his death in 1973.

Designed in the Byzantine Revival style, the building's exterior features twin domed red-brick towers crowned with Stars of David, and two opposing main staircases leading up to separate main entrances on the south side. The pews surround a central bimah from which services were led. In accordance with Orthodox tradition, men sat on the main floor, while women sat above in the gallery. The sanctuary's interior is illuminated by geometric stained-glass windows, featured brass ornamentation and is dominated by a huge hand-carved Torah ark. In 1934–35 paintings of biblical animals and signs of the zodiac were added to the gallery.
ontariojewisharchives.org

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Taken on: March 29, 2015
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