A spotlight on our communities

The Shaare Shalom Synagogue was originally built in 1888. The building was destroyed during the Great Earthquake of 1907 in Kingston and subsequently rebuilt in 1911. Today, it stands as the only remaining synagogue in Jamaica and one of the few in the world with a sand-covered floor, a feature preserved from early Sephardi traditions.

It is an amalgamated congregation with a rich blended history of Sephardi and Ashkenazi practices. The community includes both long-established Jamaican Jewish families and individuals who have joined more recently, including converts and those rediscovering their Jewish heritage. As a small but dedicated community, they work continuously to keep their traditions vibrant through regular services, holiday celebrations, educational programmes, and community outreach.

Despite their size, they maintain an active calendar. Friday night services, festival gatherings, and communal events play an essential role in strengthening the community's sense of togetherness. 

Some recent activities as of Nov 2025 include:

Remembrance Day Service
The community held its annual Remembrance Day service in honour of the local veterans who served in the war. Members of the Jamaica Defence Force were in attendance, including buglers who performed The Last Post and Reveille.