Hillcrest Jewish Center

Who could imagine a synagogue’s fate hanging on a summer day camp? Here at the Hillcrest Jewish Center in Fresh Meadows, New York, that very scenario unfolded. This grand center, a hub for the local Jewish community, faced a crossroads. The pending sale of the building in 2025 cast a shadow over the future, forcing the beloved HJC Day Camp, run by Howie Seidman for thirty years, to close its doors. The Hillcrest Jewish Center, a traditional, egalitarian, and participatory congregation, has served as a spiritual anchor for families in this Queens neighborhood. Rabbi Manes Kogan, with his diverse background in psychology, Jewish education, and even military chaplaincy, leads the congregation. Alongside him is Student Cantor Rachel Black, a senior at the H.L. Miller Cantorial School, whose voice has graced venues from the House of Representatives to the Knesset. They follow in the footsteps of Cantor Emeritus Moti Fuchs, whose charismatic personality and soulful voice continue to resonate within the community. The Hillcrest Jewish Center boasts not only spiritual leadership but also a rich artistic heritage. Five tile murals by Anton Refregier adorn the facade, depicting symbols of labor, peace, and the eternity of Jewish faith. The central panel, “The Fruitful Life,” even earned a Hallmark Christmas card prize, a curious intersection of secular and religious art. Inside, the chapel’s ark doors feature an abstract mosaic by Raymond Katz, its vibrant colors and symbolic forms inviting contemplation. The congregation hoped to create a “Sistine Chapel” for the world, a testament to their commitment to art and beauty. Hillcrest Jewish Center, with its blend of tradition and modernity, offers a unique glimpse into the evolving landscape of American Jewish life. From the closing of a cherished summer camp to the enduring legacy of its cantors, the center stands as a testament to the ever-changing dynamics of community and faith.