Our Torah
History
The MLJC’S Torah is one of three Torahs rescued after a fire at Congregation Adas Yeshurun and then housed at Temple Israel in Stockton. For many years, Temple Israel graciously allowed the MLJC to use this Torah to conduct services and other Jewish rituals.
The MLJC raised funds to have the damaged Torah restored. Members of the MLJC transported the Torah scroll to Rabbi Shmuel Miller, a Torah Sofer (scribe), in Los Angeles and brought it back home when the restoration was complete. Three local churches, the Foothill Community Church and Union Congregational Church of Angels Camp, and First Congregational Church of Murphys, were instrumental in helping to fund the Torah restoration.
Rededication
MLJC held a rededication ceremony in Murphys with members of the three Church congregations who helped fund the restoration. At the ceremony, the entire Torah, which is about 90 feet long, was unrolled and supported by those in attendance.
MLJC was ultimately able to secure ownership of the Torah and it now resides in Murphys, at the home of one of our founding members. We continue to proudly use this historic Torah during Shabbat and High Holy Days services and other events.
