Congregation Kesher Israel, Conservative synagogue in Society Hill, Center City Philadelphia, United States

Congregation Kesher Israel is a Conservative synagogue at 412 Lombard Street in the Society Hill section of Center City Philadelphia. The building began in 1796 as the first Independent Church of Christ, inspired by Joseph Priestley, and was purchased in 1888 by Bnai Jacob. It originally ran 80 feet along Lombard Street and 50 feet deep, with five arched openings on the street side and a passageway to a rear graveyard.

Bnai Jacob, founded in 1883, bought the vacant 700-seat former Unitarian church at 412 Lombard Street in 1888; its members were Russian Hasidim who prayed with the Sephardic liturgy. In 1894 it merged with Rodephe Tzedek, founded 1887, to form Kesher Israel, whose charter was approved on July 14, 1894. The enlarged building, seating 1,400 with a women's gallery, was dedicated on January 24, 1897.

The congregation keeps Orthodox Jewish traditions alive while members balance these practices with their daily routines. Visitors can observe how religious customs shape the community life here.

The building is located near major landmarks and is easily accessible by public transportation. Visitors should check timing ahead and dress appropriately, especially if joining religious services.

In 1995 the congregation had no rabbi and no janitor, and dues were $10 a year; a wealthier member once paid others $8 to $15 a week to attend services and keep a minyan of ten men. Congregant Michael Yaron donated $2 million in 1998 for the sanctuary renovation.