Temple Mishkan Israel to celebrate 125th anniversary with free concert

Temple Mishkan Israel will mark its 125th anniversary with a free community concert on Sunday, Nov. 16, featuring the acclaimed musical duo Lapidus & Myles.  

Rise Up; Musical Celebration will begin at 2:30 p.m. at the historic temple located at 503 Broad Street. 

“Temple Mishkan Israel looks forward to welcoming the Selma community to this free musical celebration and to our renewed role as a partner in Selma’s civic and cultural life,” said Ronnie Leet, president of the temple. “Through uplifting music, Temple Mishkan Israel hopes to bring people of all faiths and backgrounds together.” 

Lapidus & Myles is a collaboration between Rabbi Micah Lapidus of The Temple in Atlanta and soloist Melvin Myles, formerly of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, and now with the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. Their original compositions blend gospel, rhythm and blues, and New Orleans-style music with themes of love, peace and justice. The duo is on a mission to perform in all 50 states. 

Leet said the event is a cultural offering and a gesture of reconnection. “We just wanted to do something,” he said. “Everybody else is doing stuff, so we wanted to do something too to show that we’re still part of the Selma community.” 

Temple Mishkan Israel, founded in 1870, has long been a fixture of Selma’s history. Its current building was completed in 1899 and dedicated in 1900. Listed on the National Historic Registry, the temple has quietly hosted tours for visitors from across the country, though many locals have never seen its interior. 

“This is an opportunity to showcase our beautiful building and our history,” Leet said. “Years ago, the Jewish community was a mainstay of Selma’s growth. We want people to still feel that we’re part of this community, even if we’re quiet.” 

The concert is also a celebration of Selma’s interfaith spirit. Organizers have reached out to churches and individuals across the city to encourage broad participation. “Music has a healing power,” Leet added. “It brings people together.” 

For more information, contact Ronnie Leet at 334-412-3355 or ral2012selma@gmail.com.