The Great Synagogue!
Since 1878, The Great Synagogue has been home to a large and thriving congregation. It is a vibrant place of prayer, learning, support and celebration with a full range of services.
The Great It is one of the most visible and visited Jewish buildings in Australia. it has enjoyed pride of place for over one hundred and forty years as one of Sydney’s most beautiful and fascinating buildings, and is a majestic feature of the Sydney cityscape facing Hyde Park.
We look forward to welcoming you into our warm community, where we strive to make Judaism accessible and enjoyable. With a forward-thinking Board, inspirational Rabbis, an exceptional Choir, and a community filled with the most wonderfully diverse group of people, we’re sure you’ll find your place in our synagogue.
We welcome all Jews, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic background or level of observance.
For more information contact admin@greatsynagogue.org.au
Become a Member
We welcome each and every one of our members with open arms, excited to involve them in events, activities, and services. With many benefits, such as classes, reduced fees for lifecycle events, no charges for burials and stone consecrations, and a subscription to our magazine (The Great Vine), there’s never been a better time to join The Great Synagogue.
Membership is $585 per year, with an extra charge if you would like a brass plaque with a designated seat. Your money goes towards the Synagogue staff, building, and services, meaning our congregation has a nicer experience as the years go on.
Members of our community especially enjoy coming to synagogue and feeling like a family member instead of a visitor or a guest. You’ll meet many other members, some from families with a history with the synagogue going back many generations. We pride ourselves on the fact that, in these times where most people are behind their phone or computer screens, we have created a place where people can feel confident talking to the person next to them, or comfortable in their solitude, should they wish to sit and reflect. We celebrate the good times, and commiserate in difficult times, bringing our congregation closer together.
Rabbi Elton and his wife Hinda like to host as many members of the Synagogue for Shabbat meals as possible. They also hold events at their home at least once a month with an open invitation for all members.
We are always delighted to welcome new members to The Great.
You can click HERE to download membership forms, ring +61 2 9267 2477 or email admin@greatsynagogue.org.au.
Volunteering
We are always looking for volunteers to help out in the office, especially at busy times, to give guided tours, and to provide specialist services, in the archives, museum, maintaining the building and handling our IT needs. We would love you to join our volunteer team. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet different members of the community whilst having a good time. Please contact the office to express an interest admin@greatsynagogue.org.au
Groups & Committees
Our Choir is always looking to recruit new members. They have a fantastic repertoire, and their music-making contributes an enormous amount to making services at The Great Synagogue unique, inspiring, and very enjoyable.
The Women’s Auxiliary is a group of dedicated Great Synagogue members who organise many wonderful events throughout the year, including an annual tea in the Succah, tours and outings, and of course the weekly Kiddush. The President, Ros Brennan and Denise Sher run the Kiddushim. A list of delicious Kiddush packages and contact details can be found here.
Download our WA 2023 contribution form here.
The Board has several committees, which are open to members who are not on the Board, including Services, Events, Building and Investments.
If you would like to join a committee please contact the President of the Synagogue via the office.
Our Book Club meets regularly throughout the year and is co-ordinated by Michael Gold OAM.
Contact admin@greatsynagogue.org.au to find out more.
The Great Synagogue Harassment, Bullying & Discrimination Policy
To read our Protection Policy