Ten families a dream a synagogue. That’s the story of Congregation KINS of West Rogers Park. It all began in the early 1950s. Post-World War II West Ridge was booming. These ten families led by Maurice Aberman and Maurice Spilky needed a synagogue. They wanted a place for Traditional Judaism. Their first home was a rented storefront at 2642 West Pratt Boulevard. Daily services Sabbath services a school. They even received a charter in October 1951. A membership drive followed. The congregation quickly grew. They decided to build. Construction began in March 1952. By September 1952 they held High Holiday services at their new building. This was 2800 West North Shore Avenue. Rabbi Louis Levy led them. Congregation KINS of West Rogers Park has been there ever since.
In 1954 something amazing happened. Knesses Israel Nusach Sfard another synagogue merged with them. KINS was one of the oldest synagogues on Chicago’s West Side. It had been at 1308 South Independence Boulevard in Lawndale. Rabbi Moses Mescheloff led the merger. Congregation KINS of West Rogers Park was born. This story is even featured on WBEZ-FM’s Curious City.
The merger brought growth. A larger youth program formed. An agreement with the Jewish Community Centers of Chicago helped. The community thrived. Hebrew school Sunday school adult education classes. A sisterhood and men’s club flourished. Members celebrated weddings funerals bar and bat mitzvahs. Rabbi Mescheloff led until 1981. Then he became rabbi emeritus. Rabbi Paul S. Greenman took over. Times changed. Many residents moved to suburbs like Skokie and Buffalo Grove. Membership declined. The congregation fought to survive.
Then came Rabbi Leonard A. Matanky in 1994. He revitalized the congregation. It served a growing Orthodox community in West Ridge. He was also Dean of Ida Crown Jewish Academy. He was active in the broader community. He served as past president of the Chicago Rabbinical Council and the Rabbinical Council of America.
Today Congregation KINS of West Rogers Park continues to thrive. Families participate in their faith and community. They engage in charitable projects social activities and religious practice. The synagogue is a testament to faith perseverance and community. It is a vibrant hub in West Rogers Park a living legacy. It’s a place where history resonates in every prayer and every gathering.