Harrisburg, Pa. - Fire caused extensive damage at the Chisuk Emuna Synagogue in Harrisburg Friday night. The fire, which was reported shortly after 10 p.m., reached three alarms; meaning all city fire stations were called in as well as several West Shore departments.

No one was injured in the fire. No one was inside the synagogue at the time. Earlier Friday night, as many as 100 congregation members attended a service and a dinner on the eve of the Sabbath.

According to Mayor Stephen Reed, the fire was accidental and likely caused by 20 to 30 candles that were left burning on a plastic table. Damage estimates are more than $1 million.

Reed said at least half of the synagogue sustained major damage and could collapse. Police officers and firefighters were stationed around the synagogue overnight to keep people away. Reed believed half of the building will have to be torn down.

Firefighters were able to save several sacred scrolls from the church, but others were destroyed. The congregation is expected to hold a burial ritual for the destroyed scrolls.

Saturday services will be held at 9:15 at the Jewish Community Center on North Front Street.

The Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms is investigating, which is standard procedure in the event of a major church or synagogue fire.

 

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