In a city where the Jewish population remains under one percent, Knesseth Israel Congregation is finding a unique way to maintain its presence. As Alabama’s oldest Orthodox synagogue, the group has traded traditional brick-and-mortar outreach for a more mobile approach. They now operate JJ’s Sandwich Shop, a kosher food truck that serves as a tangible connection between the community and the public.
The project stems from a need to bridge the gap between religious tradition and the broader Birmingham landscape. With the synagogue operating without a permanent rabbi and transitioning through recent property changes, members like Beth Scherer-Smokey and Martin Stein took on the operational heavy lifting. They manage the logistics and accounting while Nathan Lichtenstein, a veteran of the New York food scene, handles the kitchen. Lichtenstein brings decades of culinary experience to the truck, preparing deli staples like pastrami and schnitzel according to strict kosher standards.
For the members of Knesseth Israel, this effort is about more than just catering. It serves as a reminder that the congregation remains active despite shifts in their organizational structure. By moving from an initial attempt with a crepe truck to a familiar deli-style menu, they have found a way to share their culture with those unfamiliar with kosher law. The meals provide a point of entry for residents to learn about the history of the synagogue, which dates back to 1889.
Lichtenstein treats the truck as a central pillar of his own work, viewing the act of feeding others as his primary contribution to his faith. He prepares the food at the local Levite Jewish Community Center, ensuring the meats and preparation meet necessary requirements. The truck has become a fixture at various local spots, creating a visual and culinary footprint that keeps the congregation visible in a way that static buildings cannot. Through these sandwiches, the synagogue ensures its name stays relevant and reachable in the Birmingham area.