One of the oldest Reform congregations in the USA and largest Jewish congregation in Tennessee.

Temple Israel, the only Reform congregation in Memphis, is the oldest and largest Jewish congregation in Tennessee. It was founded as an Orthodox congregation in 1853 by Jews of primarily German descent. It was under the leadership of its second rabbi, Max Samfield that the congregation became a founding member of the Union for Reform Judaism in 1884.

Over time the congregation outgrew several buildings as it became one of the largest Reform congregations in the United States with over 1600 family unit members. Its current home is a campus of impressive interconnected buildings designed by Memphis architect Francis Gassner and consulting architect Percival Goodman, who is particularly famous for his innovative synagogue designs. This sprawling synagogue — religious school complex was constructed in 1976. A renovation and expansion of the facility in 2003 resulted in over 100,000 square feet of space including the sanctuary, social hall, school and early childhood center.