 Twelve Bavarian , Dutch , and Portuguese Jews gathered at a private home on January 22 , 1856 to discuss their " earnest desire [ to ] effect the incorporation of a synagogue and congregation for divine service " , and in March that year they founded Congregation Baith Israel . The group had originally organized in 1855 as the United Brethren Society , a benefit society that provided members with medical and burial assistance . Hiring the Reverend M. Gershon as cantor ( the person who leads the prayers ) , they first met in various homes , then rented space at 155 Atlantic Street , now Atlantic Avenue . 
