In November 2024, students in Carroll College’s first-ever Judaism course visited the Montana Jewish Project at Helena's historic synagogue, now a Jewish community center. The course explores the philosophical thought of Judaism within the broader historical and cultural contexts of the Jewish people. During the visit, students delved into the history and present realities of Helena’s Jewish community while touring the beautiful synagogue, gaining a deeper understanding of Judaism's rich traditions and ongoing influence.
Students in the course shared their impressions of the visit below:
"Without the intention of my Judaism class and the ability to tour the Temple Emanu-El, I would never have known about the community of Jews in Helena. I drove some of my college friends by it after I was so fortunate to tour and it was really fun to show them this historic building and share with them the deep rich Jewish culture that was and is still present here in Helena." ~ Molly Fisher
"It was inspiring to see the perseverance of the Jewish community in Montana despite their fairly small numbers and diversity of Jewish backgrounds. These factors would make the establishment of a community difficult, but instead we were privileged to see a determination to represent a way of life that spans across many contexts and backgrounds." ~ Emily
"The Jewish synagogue is an incredible example of both the Jewish tradition and history of Helena, Montana. The synagogue was beautiful and full of images and signs pointing to God and his greatness." ~ Ryan Frampton
"Learning at the Jewish synagogue made me have a deeper appreciation and level of respect for the Jewish faith and tradition." ~ Luke Frampton
"It was a very cool opportunity to learn more about the Jewish religion through our visit. I had no idea that there was a Jewish community so close to us! I think there are a lot of misconceptions and prejudices about the Jewish religion. It was great to take a step to bridge the gap. What a great opportunity to get to see understanding so we can better love one another!" ~ Celi Chapman
"It was wonderful to visit the building and learn the unique and complicated history behind it. I also loved learning about the outreach that the Montana Jewish Project does now to integrate and educate the Helena community. It was a very interesting experience." ~ Nicole
"Rebecca, Director of the Montana Jewish Project, was very welcoming and knowledgeable, and she was so happy to share with us the story of the Jewish community in Helena, as well as how they are doing now. The community has such a rich history and is a vital presence here, both in the past and present. Being in the synagogue immersed me in the presence of the Jewish community in Helena and its history, and I'm grateful for the experience, for my own raised awareness, and for warm hospitality. Thank you so much!" ~ Angela Visger
"Our visit to the beautiful and historic Temple Emanu-El was a wonderful reminder of the rich history of Jews in Helena, and helps us recall our shared mission to present God's love in our community today." ~ David Casey