Congregation Ohr Torah

Ever wonder how a synagogue finds its home? Congregation Ohr Torah’s journey to its magnificent building is a testament to community spirit and resilience. Congregation Ohr Torah started its life in 1964 as a branch of AA in Highland Park. This small group, driven by Mel Wagshul, Herb Kenter, and Harold Levy, envisioned a place for worship and connection. Tragedy struck in 1981 when AA’s Richmond Avenue shul burned down on Yom Kippur. This event propelled the Highland Park minyan to become independent. They adopted the name Ohr Torah, meaning “Light of Torah.” Their first home was above the Berkeley Bakery. They held services on the second floor. This space was destroyed by a fire. Mel and Herb bravely rescued the Torah scrolls from the flames. Congregation Ohr Torah then moved to a room in the Workman’s Circle building on Woodbridge Avenue. Services were initially only held on Shabbat and Yom Tov. The congregation, around 25 members strong, continued to grow. They then moved to a larger space within the same building. A brief stint in an office building followed. Then, in 1978, Congregation Ohr Torah found a unique home. They rented space from RPRY elementary school. The “gymnasium shul” became legendary. The basketball backboard served as an unlikely acoustic panel. The shulchan, the table for reading the Torah, was positioned at the foul line. Congregation Ohr Torah remained in this unconventional space until 1998. They then built their current, magnificent building. Rabbi Pesach Raymon served as the congregation’s rabbi during the early years as part of Ahavas Achim. He continued in this role even after both shuls were located in Highland Park. Rabbi Yaakov Luban was elected as the congregation’s rabbi in 1983, serving alongside Rabbi Raymon for a short time. Rabbi Luban served Congregation Ohr Torah with distinction for an impressive 42 years. Congregation Ohr Torah’s journey, from a small minyan to a thriving congregation, is a story of perseverance and dedication to faith.