The Sephardic Jewish
Brotherhood of America
La Ermandad Sefaradi

Magen David Sephardic Congregation, also known as the Sephardic Synagogue of the Nation’s Capitol, was founded in 1966 by a diverse community of Sephardic Jews who had arrived from Morocco, Syria, Egypt & Turkey. Over time, they would be joined by Jews from all over the Mediterranean & Middle East to create a uniquely eclectic congregation.

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Sephardic Jews began to arrive in the DC area in the early 20th century. Under the guidance of Rabbi Solomon Ereza who had made his way from Turkey, the community grew over the next several decades to include Jews from a variety of countries. The community met for services only on the High Holidays at first, and would later meet weekly for Shabbat, renting a small room from other congregations. In 1985, under the leadership of Sami Totah, Magen David acquired its first building and began holding daily services. In 1998, the Congregation finished construction of a new building infused with Sephardic flavor and Moorish elements, and recently celebrated 25 years in their synagogue.

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Today, as our community approaches its 60th anniversary, Magen David remains the center of Sephardic life in the Greater Washington, DC Metropolitan area. With daily minyanim, weekly Shabbat services, annual Hilula and Mimouna, and so much more, our Kehila is an active and thriving hub of the larger Sephardic community. After school programming is available daily for elementary and middle school students, and we have a vibrant Young Professionals group that attracts participants from the entire Mid-Atlantic region.

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Recently, the synagogue welcome Rabbi Dr. Ari Soussan, the highest ranking active duty Rabbi Chaplain in the US Army. We look forward to welcoming you, whether you are visiting the Nation’s Capitol or looking to make a new home in the area.