Mississippi’s largest synagogue finds triumph in rebuilding after arson
Members of Beth Israel Congregation, Mississippi’s largest synagogue, are rebuilding after an arson attack on January 10, 2026, that damaged the building and religious artifacts. Despite the destruction, congregants are focusing on resilience and renewal, drawing strength from community and faith. A suspect, Stephen Spencer Pittman, is facing federal charges in what prosecutors say was an antisemitic act. The congregation aims to complete reconstruction by the Jewish New Year in October 2027.
- ▪The arson at Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson occurred in the early hours of January 10, 2026, causing significant damage to the building and religious items including Torahs and tapestries.
- ▪Stephen Spencer Pittman, accused of setting the fire, allegedly called the synagogue the 'synagogue of Satan' and confessed to law enforcement while being treated for burns.
- ▪Five Torahs and a damaged 'Tree of Life' brass plaque are being restored, while asbestos abatement alone is expected to cost $2 million.
- ▪Congregation members walked through the damaged synagogue on April 26, 2026, marking emotional progress and expressing hope for the rebuilding process.
- ▪Leaders plan to begin construction by late summer 2026 and hope to resume services in the building by October 2027.
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ABC NewsLiveVideoShowsShopInterest Successfully AddedWe'll notify you here with news aboutTurn on desktop notifications for breaking stories about interest? OffOnStream onMississippi’s largest synagogue finds triumph in rebuilding after arsonMembers of Mississippi’s largest synagogue have walked through the structure for the first time since a fire damaged it in the predawn hours of Jan. 10ByMOLLY MINTA/MISSISSIPPI TODAY MISSISSIPPI TODAY Associated PressApril 28, 2026, 12:14 PM1:52Children's drawings are taped up in Beth Israel Congregation on Sunday, April 26, 2026, in Jackson, Miss. (Molly Minta/Mississippi Today via AP)The Associated PressBlack, sweeping lines form an outline of a tree on the brick wall that once displayed the Tree of Life in Mississippi’s largest synagogue.
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