The International synagogue first opened its doors at John F. Kennedy International Airport in 1967.  It was situated alongside the Catholic and Protestant Chapels outside the main terminal.  Now located inside IAT/Terminal 4, on the fourth floor in the rear of the building, it is the only synagogue located in a major airport in all of North and South America.  The synagogue serves airport employees, business people, and Jewish travelers at JFK Airport. The synagogue provides a resting place for the weary travelers.  We host minyanim - prayer services, prior to flights (generally mincha and maariv). 

We have become a focal point for the Jewish traveler.  Whenever there is a mission of young Jews traveling to Israel or another place on the globe, we host these young travelers.  We host Birthright Israel, BBYO, Israel Scouts, Elite Academy, NCSY, NCYI, USY, YACHAD, Bnei Akiva, camps, yeshiva, and seminary students, as well as their parents. We can provide light refreshments to these groups  as well as have the  leaders give orientation for their charges.  We accommodate meetings of Project Interchange under the auspices of the American Jewish Committee.  The synagogue has hosted meeting for adults as well, such as Hadassah and sermon seminars for rabbis.

IAT/Terminal 4 now provides kosher food for all who come.  Recently, six vending machines were installed by HOT NOSH 24-6, serving hot dogs, vegetable patties, potato knishes, pizza, mozzarella sticks, and onion rings.

We participate with the other faith groups in sponsoring the TRI-FAITH CHAPELS MUSEUM.  The travelers can view some unusual Jewish artifacts collected from around the globe.  We have also installed a library of Judaica in both Hebrew and English in both the Chapel and the Museum.

          We have special celebrations for Chanukah and Purim at the International synagogue.  We conduct a "Lunch and Learn" program for Airport employees and business people.  And, we are available to host celebrations/smachot on our premises.  We also offer “reduced rate parking" for those who utilize the chapel for prayer or study.

          The International synagogue is testimony to the strength of the Jewish community when it unites on behalf of a meritorious cause or project.  The broad based assistance for the synagogue’s programs, coming from practically every segment of the Jewish community was initially made possible by the New York Board of Rabbis.  However, the synagogue is now supported solely through donations of its members, travelers, and the public.

           We look forward to greeting you at JFK Airport in the near future.