Congregation Adath Israel is a contemporary conservative synagogue founded in the early 20th century by Eastern European immigrants who settled in the area as farmers.
Initially, the congregation was formed in 1919 as an orthodox Jewish synagogue with the first rabbi arriving four years later. But as many congregants left Newtown in the years following the end of World War II, the synagogue dwindled to less than 20 families.
The congregation switched to a conservative doctrine during the 1970s and began welcoming interfaith families and adopting progressive social values, which in turn saw the congregation grow.
In 2007, a new building was constructed. The congregation still follows the conservative tradition, but it is not strict in its adherence. The synagogue said it offers flexible programs that takes into account people's busy schedules.
In addition to religious observance, the congregation offers educational activities and social programs. Jewish education is offered once a week to students in kindergarten through seventh grade, including Hebrew studies for fourth graders and older.