Congregation Ohab Zedek facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Congregation Ohab Zedek |
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| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Modern Orthodox Judaism |
| Ecclesiastical or organizational status | Synagogue |
| Leadership |
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| Status | Active |
| Location | |
| Location | 118 West 95th Street, New York, New York 10025 |
| Country | United States |
 Location in Manhattan
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| Architecture | |
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| Architectural type | Synagogue |
| Architectural style | Moorish Revival |
| Date established | 1873 (as a congregation) |
| Completed |
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Congregation Ohab Zedek, also known as OZ, is a historic Jewish synagogue in New York City. It is located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. This special place of worship follows Modern Orthodox Judaism, a branch of the Jewish faith. Founded in 1873, Ohab Zedek has been a central part of the community for over 150 years. Today, it is known for its active and welcoming community. The current Senior Rabbi is Allen Schwartz.
Contents
Discovering Ohab Zedek: A Historic Synagogue
The Journey Begins: Early Years in New York
A New Home on the Lower East Side
Congregation Ohab Zedek started its journey in 1873. It began on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. The community built its first synagogue building in 1881. This was at 70 Columbia Street. A few years later, in 1886, the congregation moved. They moved to a beautiful building on 172 Norfolk Street. This building was designed in the Gothic Revival architecture style. Today, it is known as the Angel Orensanz Center. It is one of the oldest synagogue buildings still standing in New York. Rabbi Philip Klein was the rabbi here for many years. He served the community from 1890 until 1926.
A Grand Design on 116th Street
Between 1906 and 1907, Ohab Zedek moved again. They built a very impressive building on 116th Street. This was in the growing neighborhood of Harlem. The design of this new synagogue was grand. It had elements of Gothic Revival architecture and Moorish Revival architecture. A famous singer named Yossele Rosenblatt was a Hazzan (or cantor) there. He led the singing during services from 1911 to 1926, and again in 1929. In 1926, Ohab Zedek moved to its current home. The 116th Street building was later sold. It became a church for many years. Sadly, due to serious damage, the building was taken down in 2009 and 2010.
Ohab Zedek Today: The West 95th Street Building
Architectural Wonders: Moorish Revival Style
The synagogue's current home is at 118 West 95th Street. It was built in 1926. This building is famous for its beautiful Moorish Revival architecture. Architect Charles B. Myers designed it. Inside, you can see amazing Mudéjar style plasterwork. This style has intricate patterns and designs. Because of its historical importance, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places on August 18, 2017. This means it is recognized as a special landmark.
A Welcoming Community
In recent years, Ohab Zedek has become a vibrant place. It attracts many young people and new members. They come to participate in its services and activities. In 2005, the congregation shared its history in a book. It was called First Hungarian Congregation Ohab Zedek. A member named Chaim Steinberger wrote it. Rabbi Allen Schwartz has been leading the congregation since 1988.
