Located at 407 East 53rd Street Congregation Bnai Abraham of East Flatbush stands proudly. It’s a cornerstone of the community a place where generations have celebrated life’s milestones and found solace in times of need. Congregation Bnai Abraham of East Flatbush wasn’t always here. Its story began much earlier a testament to the enduring spirit of faith.
In 1988 Stephen and Penny Rosen sought a more observant religious life. They wanted an Orthodox Shabbat minyan. They contacted Rabbi Shimon Hecht of Bnai Jacob in Park Slope. He generously provided a Torah scroll books and a young rabbi to lead services. Services were initially held in the Rosens’ residence. Amazingly people came. A minyan was formed. The Congregation Bnai Abraham of East Flatbush had begun.
For nine months Yom Kippur holiday and Saturday morning services were held in the Rosens’ home. The Congregation was officially founded in December 1988. The name Bnai Abraham honored Stephen Rosen’s grandfathers both named Avraham. Rabbi Raskin noted that Bnai Abraham children of Abraham is a name given to converts. The congregation has had many converts among its members.
After the Rosen’s home Congregation Bnai Abraham of East Flatbush rented a parlor floor apartment on Clinton Street. It later moved to a commercial space at 100 Clinton Street. In 1996 a significant moment arrived. The synagogue moved to its current location at 117 Remsen Street. This building was purchased from the Brooklyn Heights Synagogue a Reform congregation that had moved to a larger building nearby.
In 2000 a stunning addition enhanced Congregation Bnai Abraham of East Flatbush. The Mei Menachem Community Mikvah was built. It’s considered one of the most beautiful and elegant mikvahs in New York. The Congregation Bnai Abraham of East Flatbush continues to thrive. It is a vibrant community a beacon of faith and tradition in East Flatbush. Its story is a reminder of the power of faith perseverance and community. It’s a place where everyone feels welcome and finds a comfortable place in a vibrant community. It’s a living testament to the enduring spirit of faith and community. The Congregation Bnai Abraham of East Flatbush is a part of this history a vibrant community.