Shalom and welcome to The Pretoria Hebrew Congregation(PHC) campus that is a vibrant and essential Jewish centre. It provides its members with much more than its primary purpose of fulfilling spiritual needs. People gather in its warm and loving sanctuary for many reasons: to pray; to observe Shabbat, festivals and fast days; to commemorate special anniversaries and yahrzeits; to find emotional support; to spend precious time with family and friends; and to demonstrate their connection with the Jewish people in Israel and throughout the world.

"How awesome is this place! There is none other than the abode of G-d and this is the gate of the heavens." (Genesis 28:17)

The PHC Synagogue is a Modern Orthodox synagogue and is the spiritual home of the Orthodox community in Pretoria.

The Pretoria Hebrew community was founded between 1890 and 1895. The community’s first synagogue was inaugurated in 1898 on Paul Kruger Street.

In 1952, the Paul Kruger synagogue was expropriated by the government for the purpose of erecting a new Supreme Court, which was used for security-related cases, the activities of the black opposition movements and socialist/communist alliances. From August 1, 1958, to March 29, 1961, the treason trial of Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu and 26 others was held at the Old Synagogue. On March 29, 1961, all the accused were acquitted. From October 22 to November 7, 1962, Mandela was again on trial in the Old Synagogue.

The Pretoria Hebrew Congregation campus has become a vibrant and essential Jewish centre. It provides its members with much more than its primary purpose of fulfilling spiritual needs. People gather in its warm and loving sanctuary for many reasons: to pray; to observe Shabbat, festivals and fast days; to commemorate special anniversaries and yahrzeits; to find emotional support; to spend precious time with family and friends; and to demonstrate their connection with the Jewish people in Israel and throughout the world.

The addition of  the Rabbinical College of Pretoria known as Machon L'Hora'a, has brought a new dimension to the growth of the community, through Torah study on the campus.

The synagogue service is nourished through our uplifting and exceptional services, especially on Shabbat and Yom Tovim, which are energised by the voice of our Chazan,  Asher Goldberg.  Accompanying Asher is our magnificent choir led by dynamic choirmaster, Rabbi Choni Goldman.  Guests are always welcome to visit, we have a flatlet on the campus, which can sleep 10 people, numerous guest houses are located very near to the Synagogue, or guests can contact our offices and accomodation etc can be arranged in our "open & warm" community.

A vibrant congregation is being achieved through social events for our youth, young adults and senoir members. The "Pretoria Jewish Arts & Cultural Society", has been founded under the auspices of the PHC to organise socials for senior citizens to mingle and interact with others. 

Pretoria is a vibrant place throughout the week, with people studying, learning and participating in myriad activities which make up the rich tapestry of our congregation.