Emotional ceremony: Reichenbachschule celebrates the return of the synagogue

Emotional ceremony: Reichenbachschule celebrates the return of the synagogue

On September 15, 2025, the historic Reichenbachschule building in Munich was reopened with an emotional ceremony. Numerous prominent guests were present, including Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who during his speech highlighted the remarkable vitality of the Jewish community under difficult conditions. Merz visibly fought back tears as he discussed Nazi atrocities against Jews and recalled the words of survivor daughter Rachel Salamander, who wondered whether anyone had ever helped Jews. These moving memories were the focus of the celebration, which marked not only reconstruction but also a strong commitment to Jewish life in Germany.

The Reichenbach School, inaugurated in 1931, is the first synagogue to reopen in Germany after the war. In his speech, Merz expressed his horror at the resurgence of anti-Semitism in Germany. He promised that the federal government would do everything it could to ensure that Jewish life could be lived without fear. “We are determined to take action against anti-Semitism, both politically and criminally,” emphasized Merz, calling for a clear rejection of anti-Semitism, which is often hidden behind art, culture and science.

A sign of hope

In his speech, Prime Minister Markus Söder praised the initiator Rachel Salamander for her ten years of work on restoring the synagogue and described the day as an important statement for the Jewish community. The building was restored true to the original in a minimalist style, with simple wooden benches and colored leaded glass windows showing ritual objects and psalms. He recalled that Judaism is deeply rooted in Germany's history and should be an integral part of its cultural heritage.

German Jews have experienced a long and tragic history that dates back to ancient times. The Holocaust was a particularly dark chapter, the consequences of which still have an impact today. Anti-Semitism after 1945 is understood as a complex phenomenon that is often associated with repression and blame reversal. According to bpb.de, there are reports of an increase in anti-Semitic incidents in the decades after the war, often fueled by ideological conflicts and conspiracy theories.

A call for solidarity

The Israeli ambassador, who was also present, wished that one day the synagogue would be full of people praying in safety. This illustrates the deep longing for respectful coexistence and the security of Jewish communities in Germany. The Reichenbachschule reopening celebrations are more than just a return to a historic location; They are a powerful confession that Jewish life in Germany is not only permitted, but desired and celebrated.

The associated obligations and demands to combat anti-Semitism remain of the utmost importance today. It is up to all of us to actively fight against prejudice and create an environment in which everyone, regardless of origin or faith, can freely live out their identity.