Drawing of Rabbi Marcus Friedlander of Brooklyn's Congregation Baith Israel, published in 1891

Congregation Baith Israel Anshei Emes

Congregation Baith Israel Anshei Emes (Kane Street Synagogue): Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance in New York City

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Congregation Baith Israel Anshei Emes, widely known as the Kane Street Synagogue, stands in Brooklyn’s Cobble Hill neighborhood as the borough’s oldest continuously operating Jewish congregation. Since its founding in 1856 by German Jewish immigrants, the synagogue has played a central role in Brooklyn’s Jewish heritage and community life. Its home since 1905—a striking Romanesque Revival building originally constructed as a Dutch Reformed Church—serves as both a testament to architectural adaptation and a living center of faith, learning, and inclusivity.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, architecture admirer, or seeking a vibrant religious community, Kane Street Synagogue offers a unique and welcoming experience. This guide provides detailed visitor information, including hours, ticketing policies, accessibility, etiquette, and highlights of the congregation’s remarkable history (Kane Street Synagogue Official Website; NYC Landmarks Preservation Report).

Location and Accessibility

Kane Street Synagogue is located at 236 Kane Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231, in the heart of Cobble Hill (Kane Street Synagogue Directions). The neighborhood is easily accessible by public transportation:

Subway: F/G lines (Bergen Street Station, ~10 min walk); 2/3/4/5/R lines (Borough Hall, ~15 min walk).
Buses: B61, B63, and others serve the area.
Parking: Street parking is limited, especially on weekends and Jewish holidays. Several paid garages are within a 10–15 minute walk.

The neighborhood’s walkability, historic brownstones, and vibrant local businesses make it an appealing destination for visitors.

Visiting Hours and Service Times

Kane Street Synagogue is an active congregation with regular worship services, educational programs, and community events. Visiting opportunities are primarily during these scheduled times:

Friday Evening (Kabbalat Shabbat): 6:30 PM
Saturday Morning (Shabbat Service): 9:30 AM
Sunday Morning Minyan: 9:00 AM

The synagogue office is open:

Monday–Thursday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM–2:00 PM

For the most current service times and public access, consult the synagogue calendar or contact the office, as schedules may change for holidays or special events (Kane Street Synagogue Services).

Tickets and Admission

Regular Services: No admission fee or ticket is required to attend regular services.
High Holidays: Tickets are required due to increased attendance. Prices for 2025 range from $180 to $360 per adult, with discounts available for students, seniors, and children. Tickets can be purchased online or through the synagogue office.
Guided Tours: Available by appointment (at least one week in advance) and may carry a nominal fee. Contact the office via Contact Information.

For security, all visitors must check in at the entrance and may be asked for identification.

Dress Code and Visitor Etiquette

Attire: Modest dress is recommended for all visitors. Men are encouraged to wear a kippah (available at the entrance), and women are encouraged to cover shoulders and knees.
Behavior: Electronic devices should be silenced and are not permitted during Shabbat and Jewish holidays. Photography is strictly prohibited during services but may be allowed in designated areas at other times—always check with staff for permission.
Inclusivity: Kane Street Synagogue is an egalitarian Conservative congregation. Visitors of all backgrounds are welcome to participate respectfully in services.

Security and Safety Procedures

In light of current security needs, all visitors enter through the main entrance on Kane Street, where security personnel are present during services and events. Bags may be inspected, and visitors may be asked about their visit’s purpose. Arrive at least 15 minutes before services or tours to allow time for security screening (Jewish Security Best Practices).

Accessibility

Kane Street Synagogue is committed to accessibility:

Wheelchair access: Main sanctuary and social hall have ramps.
Restrooms: Accessible restroom on the main floor.
Assistive devices: Large-print prayer books and assistive listening devices available upon request.
Accommodations: Contact the office ahead of your visit for specific needs (Accessibility Statement).

Facilities and Amenities

The synagogue complex features:

Historic Sanctuary: A Romanesque Revival landmark with stained glass and a hand-carved Torah ark.
Modern Social Hall: Used for communal gatherings and kiddush after services.
Classrooms and Library: For Hebrew school, adult education, and community programs.
Wi-Fi: Available except during Shabbat and holidays.
Nearby Dining: The local area offers kosher and vegetarian-friendly restaurants (Kosher Restaurants Brooklyn).

Guided Tours and Educational Programs

Guided Tours: By appointment, offering insight into the synagogue’s history, architecture, and religious practices (official tour info).
Education: Programs for children (Kane Street Kids preschool, Hebrew School), adults (Torah study, lectures, workshops), and families. Details at Kane Street Hebrew School.
Cultural Events: Lectures, concerts, art exhibits, and interfaith gatherings—see the events calendar.

Community and Inclusivity

Kane Street Synagogue is renowned for its inclusivity, welcoming traditionalists, secular Jews, Jews by choice, interfaith families, and LGBTQIA+ individuals (Kane Street Synagogue). Social justice and interfaith work are central, including food drives, homeless outreach, and refugee support (Kane Street Social Justice). The congregation also partners with nearby faith communities for interfaith events.

Historical and Architectural Highlights

Founded: 1856, making it Brooklyn’s oldest continuously operating synagogue.
Building: Romanesque Revival, originally a Dutch Reformed Church (1855–56).
Landmark Status: Recognized by the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission (NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission).
Milestones: First synagogue on Long Island, site of composer Aaron Copland’s 1913 Bar Mitzvah, 1908 merger with Talmud Torah Anshei Emes.
Modernization: Extensive renovations since 2002, enhancing accessibility while preserving historic character.
Cultural Impact: Hub for egalitarian worship, education, and social justice.

COVID-19 and Health Protocols

Kane Street Synagogue adheres to NYC and CDC guidelines (NYC Health COVID-19). Masking and vaccination requirements may change; check the synagogue’s website or contact the office for up-to-date protocols before your visit.

Nearby Attractions and Accommodations

The synagogue’s Cobble Hill location places it near:

Brooklyn Bridge Park
Brooklyn Heights Promenade
Brooklyn Historical Society (Brooklyn Historical Society)
New York Transit Museum
Local hotels and guesthouses: See NYC & Company Hotels

Cobble Hill is known for its historic streets, brownstones, and diverse dining options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Kane Street Synagogue’s visiting hours?
A: Visiting hours align with scheduled services and office hours. Check the official calendar for current times.

Q: Do I need tickets to attend services?
A: No tickets are required for regular services. High Holiday services require tickets, available online or via the synagogue office.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment with at least one week’s notice.

Q: Is the synagogue accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, accessible restrooms, and assistive devices as needed.

Q: Can non-Jewish visitors attend services?
A: Yes, all respectful visitors are welcome.

Summary and Visitor Recommendations

Kane Street Synagogue is a vital link to Brooklyn’s Jewish past and present, combining historic architecture, egalitarian worship, and robust community programming. Visitors are encouraged to:

Consult the official website or calendar for updated service times and event details.
Arrange guided tours for in-depth understanding.
Adhere to respectful dress and behavioral etiquette.
Explore nearby cultural sites and local dining.
Support synagogue preservation efforts through donations.
Use digital resources, such as the Audiala app, for enriched experiences.

A visit to Kane Street Synagogue is an opportunity to experience a living chapter of Brooklyn’s diverse cultural tapestry (Kane Street Synagogue, Brooklyn Historical Society).