On Thursday evening, coinciding with Lag BaOmer, a monumental event took place at 7 Durante Court in New Hempstead, as Kehillas Zichron Yaakov held the Hanochas Even Hapinah for its new shul. The shul will be located in Hempstead Heights, a growing and often overlooked section of Monsey near New Square. The evening began with a carnival for children and continued with the official laying of the cornerstone for what will be a 6,000-square-foot building. The structure is set to become a Makom Torah and Tefillah for the kehilla for many years to come. The celebration concluded with a Lag BaOmer bonfire and a community barbecue.
Kehillas Zichron Yaakov is under the leadership of HaRav Yosef Kaiser Shlita, who has played a key role in guiding the kehilla’s growth. Over 200 people attended the event, including numerous Rabbanim and community leaders. Among the Rabbanim in attendance were Rabbi Avi Neuberger of New City, Rabbi Yosef Niman of Chestnut Ridge, Rabbi Dovid Weiss, Rabbi Chaim Shabes, Rabbi Yosef Grossbard, Mr. Sruly Orzel from Yeshiva of Spring Valley, and Rabbi Yehuda Rusak.
The event was also attended by several prominent elected officials and public figures. Assemblyman Aron Wieder, New York State Senator Bill Weber—who presented an official proclamation to the shul, Ramapo Chief of Staff Mona Montal, Deputy Chief of Staff for Senator Bill Weber Mordy Becker, Rockland County Legislator Itamar Yeger, Mayor Abe Sicker of the Village of New Hempstead, and New Hempstead Trustees Shimon Levy and Marc Schiffman were all present. Ramapo Councilman David Wanounou also attended the Hanochas Even Hapinah.
In addition, Congressman Mike Lawler sent a congratulatory letter expressing his support and admiration for the project. “This is a major milestone for your congregation and for the entire community,” he wrote. “It reflects your deep commitment to faith, tradition, and to building a strong future for generations to come. Your new shul will be a true home for prayer, learning, and community. Mazal Tov on this special day.”
