[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 94 (Tuesday, June 3, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E500]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  HONORING AND CELEBRATING THE 175TH ANNIVERSARY OF TEMPLE ISRAEL OF 
                                STOCKTON

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JOSH HARDER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 3, 2025

  Mr. HARDER of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and 
celebrate the 175th Anniversary of Temple Israel of Stockton, one of 
the oldest continuously operating Jewish congregations west of the 
Rocky Mountains. This milestone is a powerful testament to the 
endurance, faith, and contributions of Stockton's Jewish community 
since California's earliest days.
  The Gold Rush of 1849 attracted several Jewish merchants to Stockton, 
who played a vital role in building Stockton's economic base, and in 
laying the foundations of both the city and the Jewish community. 
Founded in 1849 as Ryhim Ahoovim, a Jewish benevolent society, the 
congregation established a sacred foundation that has grown and thrived 
for generations. By 1851, Ryhim Ahoovim had acquired a cemetery for 
Jewish pioneers--still in use today--and the synagogue's first lot was 
gifted by Stockton's founder, Charles M. Weber. Members of the 
congregation hauled lumber to the building site to complete the 
synagogue, which was dedicated in 1855.
  Throughout its history, Temple Israel has reflected the resilience 
and leadership of Stockton's Jewish community--not only as a place of 
worship, but as a cornerstone of civic and cultural life. Under the 
guidance of devoted rabbis, the congregation grew in size and stature, 
creating a vibrant space for education, cultural programming, and 
social connection that continues to enrich Stockton to this day.
  That spirit of compassion and responsibility was especially evident 
to the years leading up to World War II, when members of Temple Israel 
opened their arms to refugees fleeing Nazi Germany, and once again in 
the 1980's to Jews fleeing the Soviet Union. These new arrivals found 
safety and opportunity in Stockton, quickly becoming integral members 
of both the Jewish and broader Stockton communities. Their stories are 
a testament to the power of community and the enduring values that 
define Temple Israel's legacy.
  Today, Temple Israel stands as a symbol of perseverance, compassion, 
and community. Temple Israel continues to nurture generations of Jewish 
life in Stockton, while honoring the vision and courage of those who 
laid its foundation 175 years ago.
  I am proud to recognize Temple Israel of Stockton for its 175 years 
of spiritual guidance, community leadership, and enduring legacy. May 
it continue to inspire and uplift for generations to come.

                          ____________________