This editorial examines the evolving role and legitimacy of the synagogue as the central institution of Jewish religious life in contemporary American society. The author addresses concerns regarding the potential delegitimation of the synagogue's representative function, despite its institutional survival over nearly two millennia. The piece explores challenges facing modern congregational structures, including the diversification of Jewish religious expression beyond traditional synagogue boundaries, the sustainability of auxiliary organizations like Sisterhood amid changing demographics, and the competitive pressures facing congregational schools from secular preparatory institutions. The editorial introduces a scholarly initiative funded by the Lilly Foundation, which provided grants to the Seminary to conduct rigorous research on the synagogue's contemporary role within American religious and cultural contexts. This research represents a departure from previous impressionistic and anecdotal approaches to understanding synagogue function. The work aims to provide substantive analysis for rabbis and congregational leaders concerned about the future viability of traditional synagogue structures and their continued centrality in Jewish communal life, offering both challenges and potential solutions for institutional adaptation.