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Brooklyn synagogue honors Moroccan heritage through celebration and community outreach
The Merkaz Sefarad Synagogue in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, marked a significant milestone with its dual celebration of the 41st Hiloula for Baba Sali and inaugural fundraising campaign. The event, held at the Grand Ballroom of Oholei Torah, raised $36 in tzedakah from local Sephardic Jews and visitors, many with Moroccan roots. The campaign aims to strengthen the synagogue's role as a spiritual center for those seeking Nusach Sefardi prayer experiences and cultural connections.
Founded by Rabbi Lazer Avtzon following his 1982 mission to Morocco, the synagogue maintains strong ties to Moroccan traditions while incorporating the Rabbi's teachings. Over twenty years, Merkaz Sefarad has evolved into an essential hub for Crown Heights' Sephardic community, uniquely blending Chabad philosophy with Sephardic customs.
The diverse congregation encompasses Jews from Morocco, Tunisia, Iraq, Syria, Turkey, Persia, Yemen, Israel, and America, including Ashkenazi members drawn to the community's warmth. The synagogue cultivates a respectful atmosphere during prayers, facilitating discussions before Torah readings and during Kiddush gatherings.
Educational offerings include Halacha classes based on Ben Ish Chay, Yalkut Yosef, and Rabbi Shalom Messas's works, led by Rav Kuti Feldman, Rav Daniel Mahpour, and visiting scholars. The synagogue incorporates Sephardic melodies in Tefilot and welcomes congregants to chant Torah portions in their traditional styles.
Crown Heights hosts other Sephardic congregations, including Ner Menachem and the Persian Shul at Hadar Hatorah, each following distinct prayer schedules. Merkaz Sefarad maintains a balanced approach, conducting Shacharit within the prescribed Zman Tefilah timeframe.
Rabbi Avtzon, though Ashkenazi, embraces Moroccan traditions, wearing the traditional glima during Hiloulot—a practice associated with Moroccan Rabbonim, particularly the Abuhatzeira family. This garment symbolizes both Sephardic heritage and personal spiritual dedication.
The Hiloula, commemorating a respected Jewish sage's passing, holds special significance in Sephardic tradition as a time for communal prayer, storytelling, and spiritual connection. Baba Sali's Hiloula carries particular importance among Moroccan Jews worldwide.
Under Rabbi Avtzon's guidance, inspired by the Rebbe's teachings, Merkaz Sefarad continues its mission of preserving Sephardic traditions while serving as both a community anchor and welcoming space for visitors maintaining their minhagim.
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