You Belong Here

Congregation Tifereth Israel of Jackson Heights

Our Story: Nearly a Century of Jewish Life in Jackson Heights

Founded in 1927, Congregation Tifereth Israel has been a cornerstone of Jewish life in Jackson Heights, Queens for nearly a century. Through changing neighborhoods, evolving demographics, and the passage of generations, we've remained committed to one mission: providing a spiritual home where every Jew feels they belong.

From the early days when Jackson Heights was a thriving Jewish neighborhood to today's diverse, multicultural community, Congregation Tifereth Israel has adapted while staying true to Orthodox tradition. We're not a museum of Jewish practice—we're a living, breathing community where traditions meet the realities of modern Queens life.

Meet Rabbi Meir Pape

Rabbi Meir Pape of Congregation Tifereth Israel Jackson Heights

Rabbi Meir Pape serves as the spiritual leader of Congregation Tifereth Israel, bringing warmth, wisdom, and accessibility to Jewish learning and practice. Whether you're wrestling with theological questions, planning a lifecycle event, or just need someone to talk to, Rabbi Pape's door is always open.

His approach combines deep knowledge of Jewish law and tradition with a genuine understanding of the challenges facing modern Jewish families in Queens. Rabbi Pape has guided countless Bar and Bat Mitzvah students, officiated at weddings, provided comfort during times of loss, and helped community members navigate their Jewish journey—whatever that looks like for them.

Our Community Today

Today, Congregation Tifereth Israel serves Jews throughout Northwest Queens, including Jackson Heights, East Elmhurst, Corona, Woodside, and Elmhurst. Our members include young families raising the next generation, professionals balancing careers and Jewish life, empty-nesters staying connected to community, and everyone in between.

We're an Orthodox synagogue, which means we follow traditional Jewish practice in our services and observances. But we're also inclusive and welcoming—we have members who keep fully kosher homes and members still learning what kosher means, people fluent in Hebrew and people just learning the alef-bet, interfaith families and multi-generational Jewish families. What unites us is a desire for authentic Jewish community and meaningful connection to tradition.

Why Congregation Tifereth Israel?

We're not the biggest synagogue in Queens. We're not trying to be. What we offer is something different: a place where you're not just a face in the crowd, where the rabbi knows your name, where your kids grow up with other Jewish children, and where Shabbat feels like coming home.

Whether you're looking for a synagogue to join, exploring your Jewish identity, seeking a place for your children's Jewish education, or just curious about our community—you belong here. Visit us for Shabbat, reach out to Rabbi Pape with questions, or simply stop by to see what we're about. The door is always open.

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31-36 88th Street, East Elmhurst, NY 11369

Near LaGuardia Airport, serving Jackson Heights and surrounding Queens neighborhoods

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Weekly Connection

Join Us This Shabbat

Saturdays at 9:30 AM
Followed by Kiddush lunch

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Passover Seder

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Since 1927

A legacy of community

Congregation Tifereth Israel has been a spiritual anchor in Jackson Heights, Queens for nearly a century. We aren't just a synagogue; we are a family.

Whether you are seeking to reconnect with your roots or looking for a welcoming Orthodox Jewish community for your family in Queens, our doors—and our hearts—are open.

Historic Jackson Heights synagogue Congregation Tifereth Israel in the 1940s

The Foundation, 1940s

Orthodox synagogue community in Jackson Heights Queens today

The Community, Today

What We Offer

Your Jewish Home in Jackson Heights

Located in the heart of Jackson Heights, Queens, Congregation Tifereth Israel serves as a vibrant center for Jewish life in our community. Whether you're looking for weekly Shabbat services, High Holiday celebrations, or a place to raise your children with Jewish values, our synagogue offers a warm and welcoming environment for individuals and families at every stage of their Jewish journey.

Our congregation provides traditional Orthodox services while maintaining an inclusive atmosphere that welcomes Jews of all backgrounds, interfaith families, and those new to Jewish practice. From our Hebrew School program for children to adult Torah study classes, we offer educational opportunities for all ages. We celebrate lifecycle events including baby namings, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, weddings, and provide support during times of mourning with Yizkor memorial services and end-of-life guidance.

Conveniently located in Jackson Heights with easy access from surrounding Queens neighborhoods including Elmhurst, Woodside, and Corona, our synagogue has been a cornerstone of Jewish community life in Northwest Queens since 1927. Join us for Shabbat morning services every Saturday at 9:30 AM, followed by our weekly Kiddush lunch where community members gather to share a meal and connect.

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Shabbat Services

Saturdays 9:30 AM

Traditional services followed by Kiddush lunch

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Hebrew School

Jewish education for children

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Torah Classes

Study groups for all levels

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📖 Prayer Book Companion

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What We Offer

Contact Us

Rabbi Meir Pape

Rabbi Meir Pape

"Whether you have questions, need guidance, or just want to introduce yourself — I'd love to hear from you."

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Congregation Tifereth Israel
31-36 88th Street
East Elmhurst, NY 11369

Phone: (347) 450-6005
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