Rabbi Mazur served Congregation Brith Sholom Kneseth Israel (BSKI), St. Louis, Missouri as senior rabbi for over 28 years (1930-1958) and he is listed along with other rabbis who served St. Louis congregations. The full list can be found at SAINT LOUIS RABBIS.
_________________________
1914 - Married Miss Edith Frankel, daughter of Rabbi David Frankel
He was Mason
_________________________
** EDUCATIONAL and RABBINIC CHRONOLOGY **
1910
Graduated high school from Dr. Render's Seminary, Cape Town, South Africa.
1912
Yeshivah in Hamar, Galicia, Norway
Rabbi Ordination (Semikhah)
1912
Came to the United States
Congregation Anshay Levitz, New York City
Congregation Anshay Sochotchov, New York City
Rabbi Ordination (Semikhah) from both
1913
Congregation Dukler Mogain Abraham, New York City
Rabbi Ordination (Semikhah)
1914
Married Miss Edith Frankel, daughter of Rabbi David Frankel
1914
Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
Studied under Dr. Schmitt, Professor and Instructor of Medieval Jewish Philosophy and Semitic culture.
1914-1921
Congregation Hebrew Free School, Tampa, Florida
Served a congregation in Montgomery, Alabama, too.
Pulpit Rabbi
1921-1930
Agudath Achim Congregation, East St. Louis, IL
Senior Rabbi
http://jpreisler.com/AmericanSynagogue/Belleville.htm
1930-1959
Brith Sholom Congregation, University City, Missouri
Senior Rabbi
_________________________
March 17, 1930
St. Louis Congregation Gets Rabbi Mazur's Services
St. Louis, Mar. 15, 1930 (JTA) –
Rabbi Jacob R. Mazur has accepted the call of Congregation Brith Sholom to serve as its spiritual leader. For the past nine years he filled the pulpit in East St. Louis. Ill.
Plans were also announced for the building of a modern orthodox congregation in University City, with a Hebrew School and Sunday School. Brith Sholom Congregation was founded 22 years ago. Rabbi Mazur succeeds Rabbi Adolph Rosentreter, who has been officiating for a number of years, but on account of ill health has been unable to perform his spiritual duties. He was elected rabbi emeritus. The announcement of the election was made by J. D. Gross, president.
_________________________
EXCERPTS:
EARLY HISTORY OF BRITH SHOLOM
Edited and revised by Gary Kodner (July 22, 2001)
Reproduced with Permission
Rabbi Jacob Rueben Mazur assumed spiritual leadership of Brith Sholom on June 1, 1930. His advent marked the beginning of a period of unprecedented change and unity. The first Bat Mitzvah was of Tina Zorensky at the Delmar location. During this period the Rose Fischmann Library was started; Sylvin Robinson organized a baseball team; the sisterhood and men's club came into being. And, step by step, the late Friday night service came about, Yiddish sermons became English sermons and separate seating became mixed seating.
Rabbi Mazur was born in Poland and later lived in South Africa and came to the US in 1912. He received his early education under the famous Rabbis in Slabadka and graduated from Dr. Bender's Theological Seminary in Capetown, South Africa. He continued his studies at Dr. Schecters' Seminary and at Cornell University.
_________________________
25TH ANNIVERSARY TRIBUTE TO RABBI MAZUR
Brith Sholom Special Program
1955
Courtesy of Rabbi Mazur's daughter Naomi Silvermintz
Reproduced with Permission
"OUR RABBI"
WHO. FOR TWO DECADES AND A HALF, TAUGHT US TO DO MORE THAN LIVE AND LET LIVE--BUT TO LIVE AND HELP LIVE.
Rabbi Jacob R. Mazur came to the Brith Sholom Congregation from Agudath Achim Congregation, East St. Louis, Illinois, where he served at the spiritual leader for nine years.
Our Rabbi was born in Poland. He attended several Yeshives up to his Bar Mitzvah. (Macavah, Lomzah, and Kovnah). At the age of 13, he with his parents, Rabbi M. L. Mazur went to South Africa where his father served a Congregation in De-Parl, Cape Province. There he graduated High School and entered Dr. Render's Seminary in Cape Town, where from he graduated in 1910. He went to Europe to complete his studies and received his ordination (Smicha) from the Dean of the Yeshivah in Hamar Galicia, Rabbi M. M. Babed.
On July 15, 1912, Rabbi Mazur came to the United States. He received another Smicha from Rabbi B. Levy of the Congregation Anshay Levitz and Anshay Sochotchov in New York, also a Smicha from Rabbi DAvid Frankel, 349 East 4th Street of Congregation Dukler Mogain Abraham in New York. In 1914, Rabbi Mazur married Miss Edith Frankel, the daughter of Rabbi David Frankel.
Rabbi Mazur also studied at Cornell University, in Ithaca, New York, under the famous professor Dr. Schmitt, Professor and Instructor of Medieval Jewish Philosophy and Semitic culture.
In 1914, Rabbi Mazur was invited to occupy the pulpit of Congregation Hebrew Free School, Tampa, Florida. There, the Rabbi was instrumental in building a new Conservative Synagogue, Talmud Torah, and Sunday School. From Tampa, Rabbi Mazur was called to Montgomery, Alabama, where he introduced conservative services for the first time to that city. It was in Montgomery where the Rabbi was presented as a gift, the degree of the Shrine.
In 1921, Rabbi Mazur was invited to preach on the pulpit in East St. Louis, Illinois, and the Agudath Achim Congregation elected the Rabbi as the spiritual leader of that community, where he served for nine years, putting into practice a co-ordinated program of religious, civil and social activities. Rabbi Mazur was instrumental in the erection of a new Hebrew and Sunday school building. While in East St. Louis, he served as one of the Vice-Presidents of the city-wide scout troups. He was, also, a charter member of the Kiwanis Club. Through his active work in the East St. Louis Zionist Emergency Council, Rabbi Mazur was instrumental in having East St. Louis Jewry play a prominent part in our National Zionistic endeavors.
Rabbi Mazur was called to the Brith Sholom Congregation to conduct Friday night and Sabbath services in February 1930. It was the wish of Rabbi Mazur that the late Rabbi Rosentreter be elected as Rabbi Emeritus. Unfortunately Rabbi Rosentreter met his Maker on Passover that year, six weeks before Rabbi Mazur took over the Rabbinical duties of the Brith Sholom Congregation.
The first Conservative men's club in the city of St. Louis was organized by Rabbi Mazur in the Brith Sholom Congregation. He, also, inaugurated the first Sunday school in the Brith Sholom Congregation and a Parent Teachers Organization. Mrs. Mazur organized the Daughters of Brith Shalom, which has grown into one of the most active Woman's Organizations in the city.
Rabbi Mazur has completely transformed the Brith Sholom Congregation. And, through his initiative, the Congregation membership increased from one hundred members to almost three hundred families. At his insistence the entire interior of the synagogue was renovated, a new Chapel was added, and a building was purchased on Washington Avenue for temporary Hebrew and Sunday School use At present, the Congregation is in search of a new site for a Brith Sholom Center.
Rabbi Mazur organized the following Sunday schools during the past years: Collinsville, IL; Granite City, IL; Belleville, IL; Cape Girardeau, MO. He dedicated the cornerstone of the Synagogue in the Tri Cities, IL. He also dedicated that Synagogue.
Rabbi Mazur has written several newspaper and magazine articles. He contributed many articles to the Modern View and the Jewish Post. Rabbi Mazur is now the President of the St. Louis Rabbinical Association.
Rabbi Mazur, five years ago, inaugurated the first services to be conducted weekly, at the State Sanitarium on Arsenal Street. These services are being held every Tuesday morning from ten to eleven. These services are now under the auspices of the St. Louis Rabbinical Association and are being conduced alternately by the various Rabbis of the Association.
It is with a deep sense of appreciation that we, the officers, members and friends of the Brith Sholom Congregation give this testimonial in honor of our leader and friend, Rabbi Jacob R. Mazur. We trust that he will continue to guide and lead us to even greater heights.
(article provided courtesy of Mrs. Saul Silvermintz)
_________________________
** FEATURE NEWS ARTICLE **
St. Louis Post-Dispatch
December 4, 1958
RABBI JACOB MAZUR'S FUNERAL TOMORROW
CIVIC LEADER -- HEADED BRITH SHOLOM CONGREGATION 29 YEARS
Funeral services for Rabbi Jacob R. Mazur, religious and civic leader, will be at 11 a.m. tomorrow at Brith Sholom Congregation, 6166 Delmar Boulevard, whee he was rabbi for the last 29 years. Burial will be in Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery, University City, Missouri.
Rabbi Mazur, 66 years old, died of a cerebral hemorrhage yesterday at Jewish Hospital. He had suffereed a stroke on Nov. 23rd.
Rabbi Mazur was born in Poland and lived for a time in hte Union of South Africa. He served congregations in Tampa Florida, Montgomery, Alabama, and East St. Louis, Illinois before settling here.
The son of a rabbi, he was ordained in Europe. Not long after coming to this country in 1912, Rabbi Mazur married Miss Edith Frankel, daughter of the chief rabbi of New York City.
Rabbi Mazur lived at 6405 Cates Avenue, University City. He was a past president of the St. Louis Rabbinical Association, a 32° Mason, a member of B'nai Brith, the National Conference of Christians and Jews, and the Citizens Committee for City-County Cooperation.
He served as chaplain at St. Louis State Hospital where he started Jewish religious services several years ago.
Surviving in addition to his widow are one daughter, Mrs. Saul Silvermintz, and two sons, Dr. Sigmund E. Mazur and Dr. Herbert A. Mazur, all of St. Louis; four sisters, Mrs. Michael Gibson and Miss Bella Mazur of New York; Mrs. Ssm Solomon of Miami, Florida and Mrs. Rebecca Volks of the Union of South Africa; and one brother Sam Mazur of New York.
The body is at the Berger undertaking establishment, 4715 McPherson Avenue.
_________________________
** FEATURE NEWS ARTICLE **
St. Louis Globe Democrat
December 4, 1958
RABBI MAZUR DIES; 29 YEARS AT B'RITH SHOLOM
Rabbi Jacob R. Mazur, 66, rabbi of B'rith Sholom Congregation, 6166 Delmar Blvd. for the past 29 years, died at 2:45pm yesterday at Jewish Hospital of a cerebral hemorrhage. Hew had suffered a stroke 10 days ago.
Rabbi Mazur, who lived at 6405 Cates Avenue, University City, was a past president of the St. Louis Rabbinical Association and was active in numerous Jewish and civic organizations.
Born in Poland, he came to the United States in 1912. Before coming to St. Louis, he served congregations in Tampa, Florida; Montgomery, Alabama, and East St. Louis.
A thirty-second degree Mason, he was active in the Zionist organization, B'nai B'rith, the National Conference of Christians and Jews and the Citizens Committee for City-County Co-operation. He instituted Jewish religious services at St. Louis State Hospital several years ago and served as chaplain there.
Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Edith Frankel Mazur; one daughter, Mrs. Saul Silvermintz, two sons, Dr. Sigmund E. Mazur and Dr. Herbert A. Mazur, all of St. Louis; one brother, Sam Mazur, New York, and four sisgers: Mrs. Michael Gibson and Miss Bella Mazur of New York; Mrs. Sam Solomon, Miami, Florida, and Mrs. Rebecca Volks of the Union of South Africa.
Funeral services will be held at B'rith Sholom Congregation at 11am tomorrow, with burial in Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery. The body will lie in state at Berger Memorial Funeral Home, 4715 McPherson Avenue, from 8 to 10pm on Friday.
_________________________
IN MEMORIAM
United Hebrew Temple "Light"
December 12, 1958
by Rabbi Jerome W. Grollman
RABBI JACOB MAZUR
I write these words just a few moments after hearing the sad news of the passing of my good friend and colleague, Rabbi Jacob Mazur.
For twenty-nine years, Rabbi Mazur faithfully served Brith Sholom Congregation and the St. Louis Community. A Past President of the St. Louis Rabbinical Association, it was Rabbi Mazur who initiated the weekly religious services at the St. Louis State Hospital.
This brief recital of bare facts, however, cannot truly convey the deep sense of friendship we shared together. Indeed, there were strong ties of affection and devotion which united Jake Mazur with all his colleagues.
I know that there is always a temptation to be overly generous at such a time as this. Without any fear of exaggeration, however, I can honestly say that I have never known a Rabbi moe sincere than Jacob Mazur--or one with a better heart. He was intrinsically good. He knew no guile. He was a man of great compassion. With his insight and sensitivity to the sufferings of others, it is not surprising that he was the one to initiate weekly visits to the State Hospital. It could not have been anyone else.
In the ten years that I knew Jacob Mazur, I never detected even the slightest spark of envy in his personality. If one of his colleagues achieved some notable distinction or delivered an especially fine message, Jacob Mazur was the first to come forward and offer his congratulations. Nor was it ever an empty gesture. He sincerely meant it.
For me, the memory I will eternally cherish occurred at the Sabbath Service honoring his Twentieth Anniversary in St. Louis. Officially, my only duty was to read a portion of the Service. Unexpectedly, however, the President of the Congregation asked me to confer the Priestly Benediction upon Rabbi Mazur at the conclusion of the Service. I did. Jake Mazur never forgot it and neither will I. So that at my installation banquet, he was delighted when he was granted the opportunity to reciprocate and I was overjoyed.
The richest legacy which Jacob Mazur bequeathes is his family. Which is as it should be, if Judaism means anything at all. It is the strength of the family which is the strength of Judaism. And Jacob Mazur's home was a sanctuary filled with love and devotion. One only had to spend a single evening with him and his family to recognize what kind of a husband and father he was. Once knowing that, it was not difficult to understand why he was such a fine Rabbi, in the best sense of the word.
So to Edith, his lovely wife and one of the nicest women in our community...to his children--Naomi, Sig, and Herb, who already walk in their father's footsteps--I offer my own humble tribute in deepest sympathy. For I have lost one of my best friends.
"Zecher Zaddick Lavrocha"--May the memory of the righteous be for a blessing. J. W. G.
(article provided courtesy of Mrs. Saul Silvermintz)
_________________________
"A SCHOLARLY SAINT"
Temple Israel Bulletin
December, 1958
by Rabbi Ferdinand Myron Isserman
While the sudden shock of Rabbi Jacob R. Mazurs's passing is upon me, it is not easy to adequately to access the meaning of his life. The first thought which comes to my mind is his saintliness. It was he who industriously, indefatigably, and with moving sincerity championed the cause of the most helpless people in the community, the forgotten men and women of the State Mental Hospital on Arsenal Street. He arranged for a religious ministry for its Jewish patients, and when his colleagues in the rabbinate could not fulfill their engagements there, he assumed their responsibilities. Those he served there, the humblest of the humble, found in this sensitive rabbi a staunch champion and a sturdy friend.
Rabbi Mazur, likewise, was a scholar. Ordained by some of the greatest rabbis of our age, he was at home in the various fields of rabbinic lore, and was aware of the message of the rabbis to our time. Judaism to him was not a museum piece, but a faith and an ideal that the world needs today.
He was a warm friend, a helpful colleague, always appreciative, generous in his praise, and stimulating in his conversation and thought.
Never to be forgotten were the evenings at home with his lovely wife of distinguished rabbinic lineage for the rabbis and their families. There, all the tensions of his work would disappear. He gloried in his family, its rich traditions, and his educated children who, in their professional careers, reflected his love for learning and service. Staunch in his religious attitudes, he was sympathetic with and understanding of other points of view. He was beloved in East St. Louis whence he came to our city He was beloved in Brith Sholom, and also throughout the Jewish and general community. His friends in Temple Israel are many, and with me at this hour they feel a deep sense of loss. F. M. I.
(article provided courtesy of Mrs. Saul Silvermintz)
_________________________
Scroll down this page and just below the final photo on the right, click on the access link to reveal more photos. Double-click on any photo image to enlarge it and to reveal any captions, or attributions by scrolling to the bottom of the photo.
_________________________
The rabbi featured on this Find A Grave page is one of many included in a "Virtual Cemetery" of rabbis who've passed but who served on St. Louis pulpits during their rabbinate. The complete "Virtual Cemetery" list can be found at SAINT LOUIS RABBIS. Questions about this "Virtual Cemetery" project may be directed to:
Steven Weinreich
Email: [email protected]
_________________________
1914 - Married Miss Edith Frankel, daughter of Rabbi David Frankel
He was Mason
_________________________
** EDUCATIONAL and RABBINIC CHRONOLOGY **
1910
Graduated high school from Dr. Render's Seminary, Cape Town, South Africa.
1912
Yeshivah in Hamar, Galicia, Norway
Rabbi Ordination (Semikhah)
1912
Came to the United States
Congregation Anshay Levitz, New York City
Congregation Anshay Sochotchov, New York City
Rabbi Ordination (Semikhah) from both
1913
Congregation Dukler Mogain Abraham, New York City
Rabbi Ordination (Semikhah)
1914
Married Miss Edith Frankel, daughter of Rabbi David Frankel
1914
Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
Studied under Dr. Schmitt, Professor and Instructor of Medieval Jewish Philosophy and Semitic culture.
1914-1921
Congregation Hebrew Free School, Tampa, Florida
Served a congregation in Montgomery, Alabama, too.
Pulpit Rabbi
1921-1930
Agudath Achim Congregation, East St. Louis, IL
Senior Rabbi
http://jpreisler.com/AmericanSynagogue/Belleville.htm
1930-1959
Brith Sholom Congregation, University City, Missouri
Senior Rabbi
_________________________
March 17, 1930
St. Louis Congregation Gets Rabbi Mazur's Services
St. Louis, Mar. 15, 1930 (JTA) –
Rabbi Jacob R. Mazur has accepted the call of Congregation Brith Sholom to serve as its spiritual leader. For the past nine years he filled the pulpit in East St. Louis. Ill.
Plans were also announced for the building of a modern orthodox congregation in University City, with a Hebrew School and Sunday School. Brith Sholom Congregation was founded 22 years ago. Rabbi Mazur succeeds Rabbi Adolph Rosentreter, who has been officiating for a number of years, but on account of ill health has been unable to perform his spiritual duties. He was elected rabbi emeritus. The announcement of the election was made by J. D. Gross, president.
_________________________
EXCERPTS:
EARLY HISTORY OF BRITH SHOLOM
Edited and revised by Gary Kodner (July 22, 2001)
Reproduced with Permission
Rabbi Jacob Rueben Mazur assumed spiritual leadership of Brith Sholom on June 1, 1930. His advent marked the beginning of a period of unprecedented change and unity. The first Bat Mitzvah was of Tina Zorensky at the Delmar location. During this period the Rose Fischmann Library was started; Sylvin Robinson organized a baseball team; the sisterhood and men's club came into being. And, step by step, the late Friday night service came about, Yiddish sermons became English sermons and separate seating became mixed seating.
Rabbi Mazur was born in Poland and later lived in South Africa and came to the US in 1912. He received his early education under the famous Rabbis in Slabadka and graduated from Dr. Bender's Theological Seminary in Capetown, South Africa. He continued his studies at Dr. Schecters' Seminary and at Cornell University.
_________________________
25TH ANNIVERSARY TRIBUTE TO RABBI MAZUR
Brith Sholom Special Program
1955
Courtesy of Rabbi Mazur's daughter Naomi Silvermintz
Reproduced with Permission
"OUR RABBI"
WHO. FOR TWO DECADES AND A HALF, TAUGHT US TO DO MORE THAN LIVE AND LET LIVE--BUT TO LIVE AND HELP LIVE.
Rabbi Jacob R. Mazur came to the Brith Sholom Congregation from Agudath Achim Congregation, East St. Louis, Illinois, where he served at the spiritual leader for nine years.
Our Rabbi was born in Poland. He attended several Yeshives up to his Bar Mitzvah. (Macavah, Lomzah, and Kovnah). At the age of 13, he with his parents, Rabbi M. L. Mazur went to South Africa where his father served a Congregation in De-Parl, Cape Province. There he graduated High School and entered Dr. Render's Seminary in Cape Town, where from he graduated in 1910. He went to Europe to complete his studies and received his ordination (Smicha) from the Dean of the Yeshivah in Hamar Galicia, Rabbi M. M. Babed.
On July 15, 1912, Rabbi Mazur came to the United States. He received another Smicha from Rabbi B. Levy of the Congregation Anshay Levitz and Anshay Sochotchov in New York, also a Smicha from Rabbi DAvid Frankel, 349 East 4th Street of Congregation Dukler Mogain Abraham in New York. In 1914, Rabbi Mazur married Miss Edith Frankel, the daughter of Rabbi David Frankel.
Rabbi Mazur also studied at Cornell University, in Ithaca, New York, under the famous professor Dr. Schmitt, Professor and Instructor of Medieval Jewish Philosophy and Semitic culture.
In 1914, Rabbi Mazur was invited to occupy the pulpit of Congregation Hebrew Free School, Tampa, Florida. There, the Rabbi was instrumental in building a new Conservative Synagogue, Talmud Torah, and Sunday School. From Tampa, Rabbi Mazur was called to Montgomery, Alabama, where he introduced conservative services for the first time to that city. It was in Montgomery where the Rabbi was presented as a gift, the degree of the Shrine.
In 1921, Rabbi Mazur was invited to preach on the pulpit in East St. Louis, Illinois, and the Agudath Achim Congregation elected the Rabbi as the spiritual leader of that community, where he served for nine years, putting into practice a co-ordinated program of religious, civil and social activities. Rabbi Mazur was instrumental in the erection of a new Hebrew and Sunday school building. While in East St. Louis, he served as one of the Vice-Presidents of the city-wide scout troups. He was, also, a charter member of the Kiwanis Club. Through his active work in the East St. Louis Zionist Emergency Council, Rabbi Mazur was instrumental in having East St. Louis Jewry play a prominent part in our National Zionistic endeavors.
Rabbi Mazur was called to the Brith Sholom Congregation to conduct Friday night and Sabbath services in February 1930. It was the wish of Rabbi Mazur that the late Rabbi Rosentreter be elected as Rabbi Emeritus. Unfortunately Rabbi Rosentreter met his Maker on Passover that year, six weeks before Rabbi Mazur took over the Rabbinical duties of the Brith Sholom Congregation.
The first Conservative men's club in the city of St. Louis was organized by Rabbi Mazur in the Brith Sholom Congregation. He, also, inaugurated the first Sunday school in the Brith Sholom Congregation and a Parent Teachers Organization. Mrs. Mazur organized the Daughters of Brith Shalom, which has grown into one of the most active Woman's Organizations in the city.
Rabbi Mazur has completely transformed the Brith Sholom Congregation. And, through his initiative, the Congregation membership increased from one hundred members to almost three hundred families. At his insistence the entire interior of the synagogue was renovated, a new Chapel was added, and a building was purchased on Washington Avenue for temporary Hebrew and Sunday School use At present, the Congregation is in search of a new site for a Brith Sholom Center.
Rabbi Mazur organized the following Sunday schools during the past years: Collinsville, IL; Granite City, IL; Belleville, IL; Cape Girardeau, MO. He dedicated the cornerstone of the Synagogue in the Tri Cities, IL. He also dedicated that Synagogue.
Rabbi Mazur has written several newspaper and magazine articles. He contributed many articles to the Modern View and the Jewish Post. Rabbi Mazur is now the President of the St. Louis Rabbinical Association.
Rabbi Mazur, five years ago, inaugurated the first services to be conducted weekly, at the State Sanitarium on Arsenal Street. These services are being held every Tuesday morning from ten to eleven. These services are now under the auspices of the St. Louis Rabbinical Association and are being conduced alternately by the various Rabbis of the Association.
It is with a deep sense of appreciation that we, the officers, members and friends of the Brith Sholom Congregation give this testimonial in honor of our leader and friend, Rabbi Jacob R. Mazur. We trust that he will continue to guide and lead us to even greater heights.
(article provided courtesy of Mrs. Saul Silvermintz)
_________________________
** FEATURE NEWS ARTICLE **
St. Louis Post-Dispatch
December 4, 1958
RABBI JACOB MAZUR'S FUNERAL TOMORROW
CIVIC LEADER -- HEADED BRITH SHOLOM CONGREGATION 29 YEARS
Funeral services for Rabbi Jacob R. Mazur, religious and civic leader, will be at 11 a.m. tomorrow at Brith Sholom Congregation, 6166 Delmar Boulevard, whee he was rabbi for the last 29 years. Burial will be in Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery, University City, Missouri.
Rabbi Mazur, 66 years old, died of a cerebral hemorrhage yesterday at Jewish Hospital. He had suffereed a stroke on Nov. 23rd.
Rabbi Mazur was born in Poland and lived for a time in hte Union of South Africa. He served congregations in Tampa Florida, Montgomery, Alabama, and East St. Louis, Illinois before settling here.
The son of a rabbi, he was ordained in Europe. Not long after coming to this country in 1912, Rabbi Mazur married Miss Edith Frankel, daughter of the chief rabbi of New York City.
Rabbi Mazur lived at 6405 Cates Avenue, University City. He was a past president of the St. Louis Rabbinical Association, a 32° Mason, a member of B'nai Brith, the National Conference of Christians and Jews, and the Citizens Committee for City-County Cooperation.
He served as chaplain at St. Louis State Hospital where he started Jewish religious services several years ago.
Surviving in addition to his widow are one daughter, Mrs. Saul Silvermintz, and two sons, Dr. Sigmund E. Mazur and Dr. Herbert A. Mazur, all of St. Louis; four sisters, Mrs. Michael Gibson and Miss Bella Mazur of New York; Mrs. Ssm Solomon of Miami, Florida and Mrs. Rebecca Volks of the Union of South Africa; and one brother Sam Mazur of New York.
The body is at the Berger undertaking establishment, 4715 McPherson Avenue.
_________________________
** FEATURE NEWS ARTICLE **
St. Louis Globe Democrat
December 4, 1958
RABBI MAZUR DIES; 29 YEARS AT B'RITH SHOLOM
Rabbi Jacob R. Mazur, 66, rabbi of B'rith Sholom Congregation, 6166 Delmar Blvd. for the past 29 years, died at 2:45pm yesterday at Jewish Hospital of a cerebral hemorrhage. Hew had suffered a stroke 10 days ago.
Rabbi Mazur, who lived at 6405 Cates Avenue, University City, was a past president of the St. Louis Rabbinical Association and was active in numerous Jewish and civic organizations.
Born in Poland, he came to the United States in 1912. Before coming to St. Louis, he served congregations in Tampa, Florida; Montgomery, Alabama, and East St. Louis.
A thirty-second degree Mason, he was active in the Zionist organization, B'nai B'rith, the National Conference of Christians and Jews and the Citizens Committee for City-County Co-operation. He instituted Jewish religious services at St. Louis State Hospital several years ago and served as chaplain there.
Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Edith Frankel Mazur; one daughter, Mrs. Saul Silvermintz, two sons, Dr. Sigmund E. Mazur and Dr. Herbert A. Mazur, all of St. Louis; one brother, Sam Mazur, New York, and four sisgers: Mrs. Michael Gibson and Miss Bella Mazur of New York; Mrs. Sam Solomon, Miami, Florida, and Mrs. Rebecca Volks of the Union of South Africa.
Funeral services will be held at B'rith Sholom Congregation at 11am tomorrow, with burial in Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery. The body will lie in state at Berger Memorial Funeral Home, 4715 McPherson Avenue, from 8 to 10pm on Friday.
_________________________
IN MEMORIAM
United Hebrew Temple "Light"
December 12, 1958
by Rabbi Jerome W. Grollman
RABBI JACOB MAZUR
I write these words just a few moments after hearing the sad news of the passing of my good friend and colleague, Rabbi Jacob Mazur.
For twenty-nine years, Rabbi Mazur faithfully served Brith Sholom Congregation and the St. Louis Community. A Past President of the St. Louis Rabbinical Association, it was Rabbi Mazur who initiated the weekly religious services at the St. Louis State Hospital.
This brief recital of bare facts, however, cannot truly convey the deep sense of friendship we shared together. Indeed, there were strong ties of affection and devotion which united Jake Mazur with all his colleagues.
I know that there is always a temptation to be overly generous at such a time as this. Without any fear of exaggeration, however, I can honestly say that I have never known a Rabbi moe sincere than Jacob Mazur--or one with a better heart. He was intrinsically good. He knew no guile. He was a man of great compassion. With his insight and sensitivity to the sufferings of others, it is not surprising that he was the one to initiate weekly visits to the State Hospital. It could not have been anyone else.
In the ten years that I knew Jacob Mazur, I never detected even the slightest spark of envy in his personality. If one of his colleagues achieved some notable distinction or delivered an especially fine message, Jacob Mazur was the first to come forward and offer his congratulations. Nor was it ever an empty gesture. He sincerely meant it.
For me, the memory I will eternally cherish occurred at the Sabbath Service honoring his Twentieth Anniversary in St. Louis. Officially, my only duty was to read a portion of the Service. Unexpectedly, however, the President of the Congregation asked me to confer the Priestly Benediction upon Rabbi Mazur at the conclusion of the Service. I did. Jake Mazur never forgot it and neither will I. So that at my installation banquet, he was delighted when he was granted the opportunity to reciprocate and I was overjoyed.
The richest legacy which Jacob Mazur bequeathes is his family. Which is as it should be, if Judaism means anything at all. It is the strength of the family which is the strength of Judaism. And Jacob Mazur's home was a sanctuary filled with love and devotion. One only had to spend a single evening with him and his family to recognize what kind of a husband and father he was. Once knowing that, it was not difficult to understand why he was such a fine Rabbi, in the best sense of the word.
So to Edith, his lovely wife and one of the nicest women in our community...to his children--Naomi, Sig, and Herb, who already walk in their father's footsteps--I offer my own humble tribute in deepest sympathy. For I have lost one of my best friends.
"Zecher Zaddick Lavrocha"--May the memory of the righteous be for a blessing. J. W. G.
(article provided courtesy of Mrs. Saul Silvermintz)
_________________________
"A SCHOLARLY SAINT"
Temple Israel Bulletin
December, 1958
by Rabbi Ferdinand Myron Isserman
While the sudden shock of Rabbi Jacob R. Mazurs's passing is upon me, it is not easy to adequately to access the meaning of his life. The first thought which comes to my mind is his saintliness. It was he who industriously, indefatigably, and with moving sincerity championed the cause of the most helpless people in the community, the forgotten men and women of the State Mental Hospital on Arsenal Street. He arranged for a religious ministry for its Jewish patients, and when his colleagues in the rabbinate could not fulfill their engagements there, he assumed their responsibilities. Those he served there, the humblest of the humble, found in this sensitive rabbi a staunch champion and a sturdy friend.
Rabbi Mazur, likewise, was a scholar. Ordained by some of the greatest rabbis of our age, he was at home in the various fields of rabbinic lore, and was aware of the message of the rabbis to our time. Judaism to him was not a museum piece, but a faith and an ideal that the world needs today.
He was a warm friend, a helpful colleague, always appreciative, generous in his praise, and stimulating in his conversation and thought.
Never to be forgotten were the evenings at home with his lovely wife of distinguished rabbinic lineage for the rabbis and their families. There, all the tensions of his work would disappear. He gloried in his family, its rich traditions, and his educated children who, in their professional careers, reflected his love for learning and service. Staunch in his religious attitudes, he was sympathetic with and understanding of other points of view. He was beloved in East St. Louis whence he came to our city He was beloved in Brith Sholom, and also throughout the Jewish and general community. His friends in Temple Israel are many, and with me at this hour they feel a deep sense of loss. F. M. I.
(article provided courtesy of Mrs. Saul Silvermintz)
_________________________
Scroll down this page and just below the final photo on the right, click on the access link to reveal more photos. Double-click on any photo image to enlarge it and to reveal any captions, or attributions by scrolling to the bottom of the photo.
_________________________
The rabbi featured on this Find A Grave page is one of many included in a "Virtual Cemetery" of rabbis who've passed but who served on St. Louis pulpits during their rabbinate. The complete "Virtual Cemetery" list can be found at SAINT LOUIS RABBIS. Questions about this "Virtual Cemetery" project may be directed to:
Steven Weinreich
Email: [email protected]
Rabbi Mazur served Congregation Brith Sholom Kneseth Israel (BSKI), St. Louis, Missouri as senior rabbi for over 28 years (1930-1958) and he is listed along with other rabbis who served St. Louis congregations. The full list can be found at SAINT LOUIS RABBIS.
_________________________
1914 - Married Miss Edith Frankel, daughter of Rabbi David Frankel
He was Mason
_________________________
** EDUCATIONAL and RABBINIC CHRONOLOGY **
1910
Graduated high school from Dr. Render's Seminary, Cape Town, South Africa.
1912
Yeshivah in Hamar, Galicia, Norway
Rabbi Ordination (Semikhah)
1912
Came to the United States
Congregation Anshay Levitz, New York City
Congregation Anshay Sochotchov, New York City
Rabbi Ordination (Semikhah) from both
1913
Congregation Dukler Mogain Abraham, New York City
Rabbi Ordination (Semikhah)
1914
Married Miss Edith Frankel, daughter of Rabbi David Frankel
1914
Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
Studied under Dr. Schmitt, Professor and Instructor of Medieval Jewish Philosophy and Semitic culture.
1914-1921
Congregation Hebrew Free School, Tampa, Florida
Served a congregation in Montgomery, Alabama, too.
Pulpit Rabbi
1921-1930
Agudath Achim Congregation, East St. Louis, IL
Senior Rabbi
http://jpreisler.com/AmericanSynagogue/Belleville.htm
1930-1959
Brith Sholom Congregation, University City, Missouri
Senior Rabbi
_________________________
March 17, 1930
St. Louis Congregation Gets Rabbi Mazur's Services
St. Louis, Mar. 15, 1930 (JTA) –
Rabbi Jacob R. Mazur has accepted the call of Congregation Brith Sholom to serve as its spiritual leader. For the past nine years he filled the pulpit in East St. Louis. Ill.
Plans were also announced for the building of a modern orthodox congregation in University City, with a Hebrew School and Sunday School. Brith Sholom Congregation was founded 22 years ago. Rabbi Mazur succeeds Rabbi Adolph Rosentreter, who has been officiating for a number of years, but on account of ill health has been unable to perform his spiritual duties. He was elected rabbi emeritus. The announcement of the election was made by J. D. Gross, president.
_________________________
EXCERPTS:
EARLY HISTORY OF BRITH SHOLOM
Edited and revised by Gary Kodner (July 22, 2001)
Reproduced with Permission
Rabbi Jacob Rueben Mazur assumed spiritual leadership of Brith Sholom on June 1, 1930. His advent marked the beginning of a period of unprecedented change and unity. The first Bat Mitzvah was of Tina Zorensky at the Delmar location. During this period the Rose Fischmann Library was started; Sylvin Robinson organized a baseball team; the sisterhood and men's club came into being. And, step by step, the late Friday night service came about, Yiddish sermons became English sermons and separate seating became mixed seating.
Rabbi Mazur was born in Poland and later lived in South Africa and came to the US in 1912. He received his early education under the famous Rabbis in Slabadka and graduated from Dr. Bender's Theological Seminary in Capetown, South Africa. He continued his studies at Dr. Schecters' Seminary and at Cornell University.
_________________________
25TH ANNIVERSARY TRIBUTE TO RABBI MAZUR
Brith Sholom Special Program
1955
Courtesy of Rabbi Mazur's daughter Naomi Silvermintz
Reproduced with Permission
"OUR RABBI"
WHO. FOR TWO DECADES AND A HALF, TAUGHT US TO DO MORE THAN LIVE AND LET LIVE--BUT TO LIVE AND HELP LIVE.
Rabbi Jacob R. Mazur came to the Brith Sholom Congregation from Agudath Achim Congregation, East St. Louis, Illinois, where he served at the spiritual leader for nine years.
Our Rabbi was born in Poland. He attended several Yeshives up to his Bar Mitzvah. (Macavah, Lomzah, and Kovnah). At the age of 13, he with his parents, Rabbi M. L. Mazur went to South Africa where his father served a Congregation in De-Parl, Cape Province. There he graduated High School and entered Dr. Render's Seminary in Cape Town, where from he graduated in 1910. He went to Europe to complete his studies and received his ordination (Smicha) from the Dean of the Yeshivah in Hamar Galicia, Rabbi M. M. Babed.
On July 15, 1912, Rabbi Mazur came to the United States. He received another Smicha from Rabbi B. Levy of the Congregation Anshay Levitz and Anshay Sochotchov in New York, also a Smicha from Rabbi DAvid Frankel, 349 East 4th Street of Congregation Dukler Mogain Abraham in New York. In 1914, Rabbi Mazur married Miss Edith Frankel, the daughter of Rabbi David Frankel.
Rabbi Mazur also studied at Cornell University, in Ithaca, New York, under the famous professor Dr. Schmitt, Professor and Instructor of Medieval Jewish Philosophy and Semitic culture.
In 1914, Rabbi Mazur was invited to occupy the pulpit of Congregation Hebrew Free School, Tampa, Florida. There, the Rabbi was instrumental in building a new Conservative Synagogue, Talmud Torah, and Sunday School. From Tampa, Rabbi Mazur was called to Montgomery, Alabama, where he introduced conservative services for the first time to that city. It was in Montgomery where the Rabbi was presented as a gift, the degree of the Shrine.
In 1921, Rabbi Mazur was invited to preach on the pulpit in East St. Louis, Illinois, and the Agudath Achim Congregation elected the Rabbi as the spiritual leader of that community, where he served for nine years, putting into practice a co-ordinated program of religious, civil and social activities. Rabbi Mazur was instrumental in the erection of a new Hebrew and Sunday school building. While in East St. Louis, he served as one of the Vice-Presidents of the city-wide scout troups. He was, also, a charter member of the Kiwanis Club. Through his active work in the East St. Louis Zionist Emergency Council, Rabbi Mazur was instrumental in having East St. Louis Jewry play a prominent part in our National Zionistic endeavors.
Rabbi Mazur was called to the Brith Sholom Congregation to conduct Friday night and Sabbath services in February 1930. It was the wish of Rabbi Mazur that the late Rabbi Rosentreter be elected as Rabbi Emeritus. Unfortunately Rabbi Rosentreter met his Maker on Passover that year, six weeks before Rabbi Mazur took over the Rabbinical duties of the Brith Sholom Congregation.
The first Conservative men's club in the city of St. Louis was organized by Rabbi Mazur in the Brith Sholom Congregation. He, also, inaugurated the first Sunday school in the Brith Sholom Congregation and a Parent Teachers Organization. Mrs. Mazur organized the Daughters of Brith Shalom, which has grown into one of the most active Woman's Organizations in the city.
Rabbi Mazur has completely transformed the Brith Sholom Congregation. And, through his initiative, the Congregation membership increased from one hundred members to almost three hundred families. At his insistence the entire interior of the synagogue was renovated, a new Chapel was added, and a building was purchased on Washington Avenue for temporary Hebrew and Sunday School use At present, the Congregation is in search of a new site for a Brith Sholom Center.
Rabbi Mazur organized the following Sunday schools during the past years: Collinsville, IL; Granite City, IL; Belleville, IL; Cape Girardeau, MO. He dedicated the cornerstone of the Synagogue in the Tri Cities, IL. He also dedicated that Synagogue.
Rabbi Mazur has written several newspaper and magazine articles. He contributed many articles to the Modern View and the Jewish Post. Rabbi Mazur is now the President of the St. Louis Rabbinical Association.
Rabbi Mazur, five years ago, inaugurated the first services to be conducted weekly, at the State Sanitarium on Arsenal Street. These services are being held every Tuesday morning from ten to eleven. These services are now under the auspices of the St. Louis Rabbinical Association and are being conduced alternately by the various Rabbis of the Association.
It is with a deep sense of appreciation that we, the officers, members and friends of the Brith Sholom Congregation give this testimonial in honor of our leader and friend, Rabbi Jacob R. Mazur. We trust that he will continue to guide and lead us to even greater heights.
(article provided courtesy of Mrs. Saul Silvermintz)
_________________________
** FEATURE NEWS ARTICLE **
St. Louis Post-Dispatch
December 4, 1958
RABBI JACOB MAZUR'S FUNERAL TOMORROW
CIVIC LEADER -- HEADED BRITH SHOLOM CONGREGATION 29 YEARS
Funeral services for Rabbi Jacob R. Mazur, religious and civic leader, will be at 11 a.m. tomorrow at Brith Sholom Congregation, 6166 Delmar Boulevard, whee he was rabbi for the last 29 years. Burial will be in Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery, University City, Missouri.
Rabbi Mazur, 66 years old, died of a cerebral hemorrhage yesterday at Jewish Hospital. He had suffereed a stroke on Nov. 23rd.
Rabbi Mazur was born in Poland and lived for a time in hte Union of South Africa. He served congregations in Tampa Florida, Montgomery, Alabama, and East St. Louis, Illinois before settling here.
The son of a rabbi, he was ordained in Europe. Not long after coming to this country in 1912, Rabbi Mazur married Miss Edith Frankel, daughter of the chief rabbi of New York City.
Rabbi Mazur lived at 6405 Cates Avenue, University City. He was a past president of the St. Louis Rabbinical Association, a 32° Mason, a member of B'nai Brith, the National Conference of Christians and Jews, and the Citizens Committee for City-County Cooperation.
He served as chaplain at St. Louis State Hospital where he started Jewish religious services several years ago.
Surviving in addition to his widow are one daughter, Mrs. Saul Silvermintz, and two sons, Dr. Sigmund E. Mazur and Dr. Herbert A. Mazur, all of St. Louis; four sisters, Mrs. Michael Gibson and Miss Bella Mazur of New York; Mrs. Ssm Solomon of Miami, Florida and Mrs. Rebecca Volks of the Union of South Africa; and one brother Sam Mazur of New York.
The body is at the Berger undertaking establishment, 4715 McPherson Avenue.
_________________________
** FEATURE NEWS ARTICLE **
St. Louis Globe Democrat
December 4, 1958
RABBI MAZUR DIES; 29 YEARS AT B'RITH SHOLOM
Rabbi Jacob R. Mazur, 66, rabbi of B'rith Sholom Congregation, 6166 Delmar Blvd. for the past 29 years, died at 2:45pm yesterday at Jewish Hospital of a cerebral hemorrhage. Hew had suffered a stroke 10 days ago.
Rabbi Mazur, who lived at 6405 Cates Avenue, University City, was a past president of the St. Louis Rabbinical Association and was active in numerous Jewish and civic organizations.
Born in Poland, he came to the United States in 1912. Before coming to St. Louis, he served congregations in Tampa, Florida; Montgomery, Alabama, and East St. Louis.
A thirty-second degree Mason, he was active in the Zionist organization, B'nai B'rith, the National Conference of Christians and Jews and the Citizens Committee for City-County Co-operation. He instituted Jewish religious services at St. Louis State Hospital several years ago and served as chaplain there.
Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Edith Frankel Mazur; one daughter, Mrs. Saul Silvermintz, two sons, Dr. Sigmund E. Mazur and Dr. Herbert A. Mazur, all of St. Louis; one brother, Sam Mazur, New York, and four sisgers: Mrs. Michael Gibson and Miss Bella Mazur of New York; Mrs. Sam Solomon, Miami, Florida, and Mrs. Rebecca Volks of the Union of South Africa.
Funeral services will be held at B'rith Sholom Congregation at 11am tomorrow, with burial in Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery. The body will lie in state at Berger Memorial Funeral Home, 4715 McPherson Avenue, from 8 to 10pm on Friday.
_________________________
IN MEMORIAM
United Hebrew Temple "Light"
December 12, 1958
by Rabbi Jerome W. Grollman
RABBI JACOB MAZUR
I write these words just a few moments after hearing the sad news of the passing of my good friend and colleague, Rabbi Jacob Mazur.
For twenty-nine years, Rabbi Mazur faithfully served Brith Sholom Congregation and the St. Louis Community. A Past President of the St. Louis Rabbinical Association, it was Rabbi Mazur who initiated the weekly religious services at the St. Louis State Hospital.
This brief recital of bare facts, however, cannot truly convey the deep sense of friendship we shared together. Indeed, there were strong ties of affection and devotion which united Jake Mazur with all his colleagues.
I know that there is always a temptation to be overly generous at such a time as this. Without any fear of exaggeration, however, I can honestly say that I have never known a Rabbi moe sincere than Jacob Mazur--or one with a better heart. He was intrinsically good. He knew no guile. He was a man of great compassion. With his insight and sensitivity to the sufferings of others, it is not surprising that he was the one to initiate weekly visits to the State Hospital. It could not have been anyone else.
In the ten years that I knew Jacob Mazur, I never detected even the slightest spark of envy in his personality. If one of his colleagues achieved some notable distinction or delivered an especially fine message, Jacob Mazur was the first to come forward and offer his congratulations. Nor was it ever an empty gesture. He sincerely meant it.
For me, the memory I will eternally cherish occurred at the Sabbath Service honoring his Twentieth Anniversary in St. Louis. Officially, my only duty was to read a portion of the Service. Unexpectedly, however, the President of the Congregation asked me to confer the Priestly Benediction upon Rabbi Mazur at the conclusion of the Service. I did. Jake Mazur never forgot it and neither will I. So that at my installation banquet, he was delighted when he was granted the opportunity to reciprocate and I was overjoyed.
The richest legacy which Jacob Mazur bequeathes is his family. Which is as it should be, if Judaism means anything at all. It is the strength of the family which is the strength of Judaism. And Jacob Mazur's home was a sanctuary filled with love and devotion. One only had to spend a single evening with him and his family to recognize what kind of a husband and father he was. Once knowing that, it was not difficult to understand why he was such a fine Rabbi, in the best sense of the word.
So to Edith, his lovely wife and one of the nicest women in our community...to his children--Naomi, Sig, and Herb, who already walk in their father's footsteps--I offer my own humble tribute in deepest sympathy. For I have lost one of my best friends.
"Zecher Zaddick Lavrocha"--May the memory of the righteous be for a blessing. J. W. G.
(article provided courtesy of Mrs. Saul Silvermintz)
_________________________
"A SCHOLARLY SAINT"
Temple Israel Bulletin
December, 1958
by Rabbi Ferdinand Myron Isserman
While the sudden shock of Rabbi Jacob R. Mazurs's passing is upon me, it is not easy to adequately to access the meaning of his life. The first thought which comes to my mind is his saintliness. It was he who industriously, indefatigably, and with moving sincerity championed the cause of the most helpless people in the community, the forgotten men and women of the State Mental Hospital on Arsenal Street. He arranged for a religious ministry for its Jewish patients, and when his colleagues in the rabbinate could not fulfill their engagements there, he assumed their responsibilities. Those he served there, the humblest of the humble, found in this sensitive rabbi a staunch champion and a sturdy friend.
Rabbi Mazur, likewise, was a scholar. Ordained by some of the greatest rabbis of our age, he was at home in the various fields of rabbinic lore, and was aware of the message of the rabbis to our time. Judaism to him was not a museum piece, but a faith and an ideal that the world needs today.
He was a warm friend, a helpful colleague, always appreciative, generous in his praise, and stimulating in his conversation and thought.
Never to be forgotten were the evenings at home with his lovely wife of distinguished rabbinic lineage for the rabbis and their families. There, all the tensions of his work would disappear. He gloried in his family, its rich traditions, and his educated children who, in their professional careers, reflected his love for learning and service. Staunch in his religious attitudes, he was sympathetic with and understanding of other points of view. He was beloved in East St. Louis whence he came to our city He was beloved in Brith Sholom, and also throughout the Jewish and general community. His friends in Temple Israel are many, and with me at this hour they feel a deep sense of loss. F. M. I.
(article provided courtesy of Mrs. Saul Silvermintz)
_________________________
Scroll down this page and just below the final photo on the right, click on the access link to reveal more photos. Double-click on any photo image to enlarge it and to reveal any captions, or attributions by scrolling to the bottom of the photo.
_________________________
The rabbi featured on this Find A Grave page is one of many included in a "Virtual Cemetery" of rabbis who've passed but who served on St. Louis pulpits during their rabbinate. The complete "Virtual Cemetery" list can be found at SAINT LOUIS RABBIS. Questions about this "Virtual Cemetery" project may be directed to:
Steven Weinreich
Email: [email protected]
_________________________
1914 - Married Miss Edith Frankel, daughter of Rabbi David Frankel
He was Mason
_________________________
** EDUCATIONAL and RABBINIC CHRONOLOGY **
1910
Graduated high school from Dr. Render's Seminary, Cape Town, South Africa.
1912
Yeshivah in Hamar, Galicia, Norway
Rabbi Ordination (Semikhah)
1912
Came to the United States
Congregation Anshay Levitz, New York City
Congregation Anshay Sochotchov, New York City
Rabbi Ordination (Semikhah) from both
1913
Congregation Dukler Mogain Abraham, New York City
Rabbi Ordination (Semikhah)
1914
Married Miss Edith Frankel, daughter of Rabbi David Frankel
1914
Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
Studied under Dr. Schmitt, Professor and Instructor of Medieval Jewish Philosophy and Semitic culture.
1914-1921
Congregation Hebrew Free School, Tampa, Florida
Served a congregation in Montgomery, Alabama, too.
Pulpit Rabbi
1921-1930
Agudath Achim Congregation, East St. Louis, IL
Senior Rabbi
http://jpreisler.com/AmericanSynagogue/Belleville.htm
1930-1959
Brith Sholom Congregation, University City, Missouri
Senior Rabbi
_________________________
March 17, 1930
St. Louis Congregation Gets Rabbi Mazur's Services
St. Louis, Mar. 15, 1930 (JTA) –
Rabbi Jacob R. Mazur has accepted the call of Congregation Brith Sholom to serve as its spiritual leader. For the past nine years he filled the pulpit in East St. Louis. Ill.
Plans were also announced for the building of a modern orthodox congregation in University City, with a Hebrew School and Sunday School. Brith Sholom Congregation was founded 22 years ago. Rabbi Mazur succeeds Rabbi Adolph Rosentreter, who has been officiating for a number of years, but on account of ill health has been unable to perform his spiritual duties. He was elected rabbi emeritus. The announcement of the election was made by J. D. Gross, president.
_________________________
EXCERPTS:
EARLY HISTORY OF BRITH SHOLOM
Edited and revised by Gary Kodner (July 22, 2001)
Reproduced with Permission
Rabbi Jacob Rueben Mazur assumed spiritual leadership of Brith Sholom on June 1, 1930. His advent marked the beginning of a period of unprecedented change and unity. The first Bat Mitzvah was of Tina Zorensky at the Delmar location. During this period the Rose Fischmann Library was started; Sylvin Robinson organized a baseball team; the sisterhood and men's club came into being. And, step by step, the late Friday night service came about, Yiddish sermons became English sermons and separate seating became mixed seating.
Rabbi Mazur was born in Poland and later lived in South Africa and came to the US in 1912. He received his early education under the famous Rabbis in Slabadka and graduated from Dr. Bender's Theological Seminary in Capetown, South Africa. He continued his studies at Dr. Schecters' Seminary and at Cornell University.
_________________________
25TH ANNIVERSARY TRIBUTE TO RABBI MAZUR
Brith Sholom Special Program
1955
Courtesy of Rabbi Mazur's daughter Naomi Silvermintz
Reproduced with Permission
"OUR RABBI"
WHO. FOR TWO DECADES AND A HALF, TAUGHT US TO DO MORE THAN LIVE AND LET LIVE--BUT TO LIVE AND HELP LIVE.
Rabbi Jacob R. Mazur came to the Brith Sholom Congregation from Agudath Achim Congregation, East St. Louis, Illinois, where he served at the spiritual leader for nine years.
Our Rabbi was born in Poland. He attended several Yeshives up to his Bar Mitzvah. (Macavah, Lomzah, and Kovnah). At the age of 13, he with his parents, Rabbi M. L. Mazur went to South Africa where his father served a Congregation in De-Parl, Cape Province. There he graduated High School and entered Dr. Render's Seminary in Cape Town, where from he graduated in 1910. He went to Europe to complete his studies and received his ordination (Smicha) from the Dean of the Yeshivah in Hamar Galicia, Rabbi M. M. Babed.
On July 15, 1912, Rabbi Mazur came to the United States. He received another Smicha from Rabbi B. Levy of the Congregation Anshay Levitz and Anshay Sochotchov in New York, also a Smicha from Rabbi DAvid Frankel, 349 East 4th Street of Congregation Dukler Mogain Abraham in New York. In 1914, Rabbi Mazur married Miss Edith Frankel, the daughter of Rabbi David Frankel.
Rabbi Mazur also studied at Cornell University, in Ithaca, New York, under the famous professor Dr. Schmitt, Professor and Instructor of Medieval Jewish Philosophy and Semitic culture.
In 1914, Rabbi Mazur was invited to occupy the pulpit of Congregation Hebrew Free School, Tampa, Florida. There, the Rabbi was instrumental in building a new Conservative Synagogue, Talmud Torah, and Sunday School. From Tampa, Rabbi Mazur was called to Montgomery, Alabama, where he introduced conservative services for the first time to that city. It was in Montgomery where the Rabbi was presented as a gift, the degree of the Shrine.
In 1921, Rabbi Mazur was invited to preach on the pulpit in East St. Louis, Illinois, and the Agudath Achim Congregation elected the Rabbi as the spiritual leader of that community, where he served for nine years, putting into practice a co-ordinated program of religious, civil and social activities. Rabbi Mazur was instrumental in the erection of a new Hebrew and Sunday school building. While in East St. Louis, he served as one of the Vice-Presidents of the city-wide scout troups. He was, also, a charter member of the Kiwanis Club. Through his active work in the East St. Louis Zionist Emergency Council, Rabbi Mazur was instrumental in having East St. Louis Jewry play a prominent part in our National Zionistic endeavors.
Rabbi Mazur was called to the Brith Sholom Congregation to conduct Friday night and Sabbath services in February 1930. It was the wish of Rabbi Mazur that the late Rabbi Rosentreter be elected as Rabbi Emeritus. Unfortunately Rabbi Rosentreter met his Maker on Passover that year, six weeks before Rabbi Mazur took over the Rabbinical duties of the Brith Sholom Congregation.
The first Conservative men's club in the city of St. Louis was organized by Rabbi Mazur in the Brith Sholom Congregation. He, also, inaugurated the first Sunday school in the Brith Sholom Congregation and a Parent Teachers Organization. Mrs. Mazur organized the Daughters of Brith Shalom, which has grown into one of the most active Woman's Organizations in the city.
Rabbi Mazur has completely transformed the Brith Sholom Congregation. And, through his initiative, the Congregation membership increased from one hundred members to almost three hundred families. At his insistence the entire interior of the synagogue was renovated, a new Chapel was added, and a building was purchased on Washington Avenue for temporary Hebrew and Sunday School use At present, the Congregation is in search of a new site for a Brith Sholom Center.
Rabbi Mazur organized the following Sunday schools during the past years: Collinsville, IL; Granite City, IL; Belleville, IL; Cape Girardeau, MO. He dedicated the cornerstone of the Synagogue in the Tri Cities, IL. He also dedicated that Synagogue.
Rabbi Mazur has written several newspaper and magazine articles. He contributed many articles to the Modern View and the Jewish Post. Rabbi Mazur is now the President of the St. Louis Rabbinical Association.
Rabbi Mazur, five years ago, inaugurated the first services to be conducted weekly, at the State Sanitarium on Arsenal Street. These services are being held every Tuesday morning from ten to eleven. These services are now under the auspices of the St. Louis Rabbinical Association and are being conduced alternately by the various Rabbis of the Association.
It is with a deep sense of appreciation that we, the officers, members and friends of the Brith Sholom Congregation give this testimonial in honor of our leader and friend, Rabbi Jacob R. Mazur. We trust that he will continue to guide and lead us to even greater heights.
(article provided courtesy of Mrs. Saul Silvermintz)
_________________________
** FEATURE NEWS ARTICLE **
St. Louis Post-Dispatch
December 4, 1958
RABBI JACOB MAZUR'S FUNERAL TOMORROW
CIVIC LEADER -- HEADED BRITH SHOLOM CONGREGATION 29 YEARS
Funeral services for Rabbi Jacob R. Mazur, religious and civic leader, will be at 11 a.m. tomorrow at Brith Sholom Congregation, 6166 Delmar Boulevard, whee he was rabbi for the last 29 years. Burial will be in Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery, University City, Missouri.
Rabbi Mazur, 66 years old, died of a cerebral hemorrhage yesterday at Jewish Hospital. He had suffereed a stroke on Nov. 23rd.
Rabbi Mazur was born in Poland and lived for a time in hte Union of South Africa. He served congregations in Tampa Florida, Montgomery, Alabama, and East St. Louis, Illinois before settling here.
The son of a rabbi, he was ordained in Europe. Not long after coming to this country in 1912, Rabbi Mazur married Miss Edith Frankel, daughter of the chief rabbi of New York City.
Rabbi Mazur lived at 6405 Cates Avenue, University City. He was a past president of the St. Louis Rabbinical Association, a 32° Mason, a member of B'nai Brith, the National Conference of Christians and Jews, and the Citizens Committee for City-County Cooperation.
He served as chaplain at St. Louis State Hospital where he started Jewish religious services several years ago.
Surviving in addition to his widow are one daughter, Mrs. Saul Silvermintz, and two sons, Dr. Sigmund E. Mazur and Dr. Herbert A. Mazur, all of St. Louis; four sisters, Mrs. Michael Gibson and Miss Bella Mazur of New York; Mrs. Ssm Solomon of Miami, Florida and Mrs. Rebecca Volks of the Union of South Africa; and one brother Sam Mazur of New York.
The body is at the Berger undertaking establishment, 4715 McPherson Avenue.
_________________________
** FEATURE NEWS ARTICLE **
St. Louis Globe Democrat
December 4, 1958
RABBI MAZUR DIES; 29 YEARS AT B'RITH SHOLOM
Rabbi Jacob R. Mazur, 66, rabbi of B'rith Sholom Congregation, 6166 Delmar Blvd. for the past 29 years, died at 2:45pm yesterday at Jewish Hospital of a cerebral hemorrhage. Hew had suffered a stroke 10 days ago.
Rabbi Mazur, who lived at 6405 Cates Avenue, University City, was a past president of the St. Louis Rabbinical Association and was active in numerous Jewish and civic organizations.
Born in Poland, he came to the United States in 1912. Before coming to St. Louis, he served congregations in Tampa, Florida; Montgomery, Alabama, and East St. Louis.
A thirty-second degree Mason, he was active in the Zionist organization, B'nai B'rith, the National Conference of Christians and Jews and the Citizens Committee for City-County Co-operation. He instituted Jewish religious services at St. Louis State Hospital several years ago and served as chaplain there.
Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Edith Frankel Mazur; one daughter, Mrs. Saul Silvermintz, two sons, Dr. Sigmund E. Mazur and Dr. Herbert A. Mazur, all of St. Louis; one brother, Sam Mazur, New York, and four sisgers: Mrs. Michael Gibson and Miss Bella Mazur of New York; Mrs. Sam Solomon, Miami, Florida, and Mrs. Rebecca Volks of the Union of South Africa.
Funeral services will be held at B'rith Sholom Congregation at 11am tomorrow, with burial in Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery. The body will lie in state at Berger Memorial Funeral Home, 4715 McPherson Avenue, from 8 to 10pm on Friday.
_________________________
IN MEMORIAM
United Hebrew Temple "Light"
December 12, 1958
by Rabbi Jerome W. Grollman
RABBI JACOB MAZUR
I write these words just a few moments after hearing the sad news of the passing of my good friend and colleague, Rabbi Jacob Mazur.
For twenty-nine years, Rabbi Mazur faithfully served Brith Sholom Congregation and the St. Louis Community. A Past President of the St. Louis Rabbinical Association, it was Rabbi Mazur who initiated the weekly religious services at the St. Louis State Hospital.
This brief recital of bare facts, however, cannot truly convey the deep sense of friendship we shared together. Indeed, there were strong ties of affection and devotion which united Jake Mazur with all his colleagues.
I know that there is always a temptation to be overly generous at such a time as this. Without any fear of exaggeration, however, I can honestly say that I have never known a Rabbi moe sincere than Jacob Mazur--or one with a better heart. He was intrinsically good. He knew no guile. He was a man of great compassion. With his insight and sensitivity to the sufferings of others, it is not surprising that he was the one to initiate weekly visits to the State Hospital. It could not have been anyone else.
In the ten years that I knew Jacob Mazur, I never detected even the slightest spark of envy in his personality. If one of his colleagues achieved some notable distinction or delivered an especially fine message, Jacob Mazur was the first to come forward and offer his congratulations. Nor was it ever an empty gesture. He sincerely meant it.
For me, the memory I will eternally cherish occurred at the Sabbath Service honoring his Twentieth Anniversary in St. Louis. Officially, my only duty was to read a portion of the Service. Unexpectedly, however, the President of the Congregation asked me to confer the Priestly Benediction upon Rabbi Mazur at the conclusion of the Service. I did. Jake Mazur never forgot it and neither will I. So that at my installation banquet, he was delighted when he was granted the opportunity to reciprocate and I was overjoyed.
The richest legacy which Jacob Mazur bequeathes is his family. Which is as it should be, if Judaism means anything at all. It is the strength of the family which is the strength of Judaism. And Jacob Mazur's home was a sanctuary filled with love and devotion. One only had to spend a single evening with him and his family to recognize what kind of a husband and father he was. Once knowing that, it was not difficult to understand why he was such a fine Rabbi, in the best sense of the word.
So to Edith, his lovely wife and one of the nicest women in our community...to his children--Naomi, Sig, and Herb, who already walk in their father's footsteps--I offer my own humble tribute in deepest sympathy. For I have lost one of my best friends.
"Zecher Zaddick Lavrocha"--May the memory of the righteous be for a blessing. J. W. G.
(article provided courtesy of Mrs. Saul Silvermintz)
_________________________
"A SCHOLARLY SAINT"
Temple Israel Bulletin
December, 1958
by Rabbi Ferdinand Myron Isserman
While the sudden shock of Rabbi Jacob R. Mazurs's passing is upon me, it is not easy to adequately to access the meaning of his life. The first thought which comes to my mind is his saintliness. It was he who industriously, indefatigably, and with moving sincerity championed the cause of the most helpless people in the community, the forgotten men and women of the State Mental Hospital on Arsenal Street. He arranged for a religious ministry for its Jewish patients, and when his colleagues in the rabbinate could not fulfill their engagements there, he assumed their responsibilities. Those he served there, the humblest of the humble, found in this sensitive rabbi a staunch champion and a sturdy friend.
Rabbi Mazur, likewise, was a scholar. Ordained by some of the greatest rabbis of our age, he was at home in the various fields of rabbinic lore, and was aware of the message of the rabbis to our time. Judaism to him was not a museum piece, but a faith and an ideal that the world needs today.
He was a warm friend, a helpful colleague, always appreciative, generous in his praise, and stimulating in his conversation and thought.
Never to be forgotten were the evenings at home with his lovely wife of distinguished rabbinic lineage for the rabbis and their families. There, all the tensions of his work would disappear. He gloried in his family, its rich traditions, and his educated children who, in their professional careers, reflected his love for learning and service. Staunch in his religious attitudes, he was sympathetic with and understanding of other points of view. He was beloved in East St. Louis whence he came to our city He was beloved in Brith Sholom, and also throughout the Jewish and general community. His friends in Temple Israel are many, and with me at this hour they feel a deep sense of loss. F. M. I.
(article provided courtesy of Mrs. Saul Silvermintz)
_________________________
Scroll down this page and just below the final photo on the right, click on the access link to reveal more photos. Double-click on any photo image to enlarge it and to reveal any captions, or attributions by scrolling to the bottom of the photo.
_________________________
The rabbi featured on this Find A Grave page is one of many included in a "Virtual Cemetery" of rabbis who've passed but who served on St. Louis pulpits during their rabbinate. The complete "Virtual Cemetery" list can be found at SAINT LOUIS RABBIS. Questions about this "Virtual Cemetery" project may be directed to:
Steven Weinreich
Email: [email protected]
