THE ARCHITECTS NEWSPAPER
With commuter congregation waning, the Chicago Loop Synagogue faces an uncertain future
by Aaron Smithson
June 8, 2021

…According to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency, the Chicago Loop Synagogue’s membership has shrunk markedly in the last thirty years, a trend that began long before the onset of COVID-19 shutdowns. Its congregation, now just over 400 strong, has only about 30-to-40 members who live in the vicinity and attend Saturday services. With such small numbers, the relatively affordable dues of $180 or less per year do not generate enough revenue to maintain current operations. Lee Zoldan, the president of the congregation, estimated that the institution’s cash assets can only keep it afloat for another 18 months. READ MORE