Ahavas Shalom Reform Temple, Reform synagogue in Ligonier, United States.
Ahavas Shalom Reform Temple is a one-story red brick building at 503 Main Street, designed by Fort Wayne architect Harry Matson. It has a Greek cross plan, a steep cross-gabled roof, and an entrance tower with a steep pyramidal roof. Lancet windows hold stained glass, one showing the story of King David. Deep corbels under the spire and a stone stringcourse contrast with the brick.
The building was designed in 1889 by architect Harry Matson and originally served about sixty Jewish families. After membership declined, it was converted to Methodist church use in 1954.
The sanctuary floor slopes slightly from west to east, while the seating area runs north to south. On the east side stands the bimah, behind which a projecting brick niche originally held the aron kadesh for Torah scrolls. The original ner tamid lamp was later given to a congregation in Highland Park, Illinois.
The building stands on Main Street in an easy-to-find location and is clearly recognizable from the street. Visitors should note that it functions as a private residence, so access may be limited.
The ner tamid that once hung above the bimah was removed and given to the Lakeside Congregation for Reform Judaism, now part of Congregation Solel in Highland Park, Illinois. The building's stained glass, including a lancet window showing the story of King David, is protected by a preservation easement donated to Indiana Landmarks.
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