Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum
575 3rd Street NorthwestThis lunch and learn will explore the life and thought of Rabbi Gedalia Silverstone (1871–1942), who served as the first Orthodox Rabbi in Washington, D.C. from 1909 until his death. We will read excerpts from his writing to get a glimpse into Washington’s Orthodox Jewish community in the early 20th century and examine the Rabbi's approach to Zionism, prohibition, and historic events like the sinking of the Titanic. Attendees are encouraged to bring lunch to enjoy during the program.
Rabbi Hyim Shafner is the Rabbi of Kesher Israel: The Georgetown Synagogue, in Washington D.C. He previously served as Rabbi of Bais Abraham Congregation in St. Louis, Missouri, Rabbi of the Hillel at Washington University in St. Louis, and Rabbi of India for the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee. Rabbi Shafner is the author of The Everything Jewish Wedding Book and has published widely in an array of Jewish journals, periodicals and books.
Photo of Rabbi Silverstone with Rabbi Dubrow (Rabbi of Kesher Israel from 1920's-1944) and Rabbi Klavins.
Wed, May 27, 2026 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum
575 3rd Street Northwest
The Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum collects, preserves, and shares the diverse stories of Jewish history and culture in the National Capital Region. Through exhibitions and programs, we build connections across generations and communities, encourage reflection on the relevance of the past to today, and inspire civic and community engagement.
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