Etz Chaim

Etz Chaim, formerly an Orthodox congregation, is now an egalitarian, unaffiliated synagogue enjoying a resurgence in membership. All are welcome to attend weekly services on Monday Evenings and Saturday mornings, as well as once-a-month on Friday evenings, and for special holidays throughout the year. Lifecycle ceremonies such as bar/bat mitzvahs,... weddings, funerals, baby naming, and vow renewals all talk place here. Contact us if you would like us to host your special event. Etz Chaim is located in the Downtown Portland Historic District, on the peninsula at the foot of Munjoy Hill. The neighborhood housed so many Jewish families at the turn of the twentieth century, that it was commonly referred to as "Jerusalem of the North." Established in 1921, Etz Chaim is celebrating its 94th year of continuous service to Jews in Greater Portland and beyond. Etz Chaim Synagogue has been the home of the Maine Jewish Museum since 2010. The museum is dedicated to preserving the original turn-of-the-century, European style orthodox synagogue so that future generations can visit and enjoy. It also is dedicated to being a center for Maine Jewish history, art and culture with a full calendar of museum events.Read More