400-Year-Old Synagogue Engulfed in Flames

The Great Synagogue of Grodno, Belarus, built in 1578, was partially destroyed by flames caused by an electrical circuit. The praying hall and kitchen were completely ruined, leaving the community homeless and without a place for services.

The community, which only recently managed to restore the building’s front and had begun plans for reconstructing the inner hall, was shocked to learn of the loss – evaluated at nearly $100,000.

Efforts have begun to try to find funds for the expensive restoration. To help save the Synagogue, please visit http://fjc.ru/centers/belarus/grodno/.