“Did you know that ritual purity has a dedicated space?” Right here stands the Lower Merion Community Mikvah. It is more than just a building. It’s a cornerstone of spiritual life for the Jewish communities of Lower Merion.
The Lower Merion Community Mikvah opened its doors in 2017. This was after years of planning and effort by the Lower Merion community. Monica Rasch Kohn had a vision. Her vision was of an inclusive and beautiful community mikvah. It would serve as a spiritual center. The community dedicated the building to her memory.
Inside the Lower Merion Community Mikvah, you’ll discover ten preparation rooms. There are also two Mikvaos. One mikvah is fully handicap-accessible. It proudly holds the distinction of being the only one in the Greater Philadelphia Area. The mikvah serves the Jewish communities. These include Bala Cynwyd, Merion Station, Wynnewood, and West Philadelphia.
For women, the Mikvah operates every weeknight from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM. On Shabbos, access is by appointment only. This is one hour after candle-lighting time. On Motzei Shabbos, the mikvah opens two hours after candle lighting. It then stays open for two hours. Late arrivals are subject to a fee.
The Lower Merion Community Mikvah also provides a Men’s Mikvah. It opens early each morning. Sunday through Thursday it opens from 4:30 AM to 10 AM. On Fridays, the hours are 4:30 AM to one hour before candle lighting. Shabbat morning mirrors the weekday schedule. Access to the Men’s Mikvah is via a mechanical door. The code is 1 and 3 together, then 5.
The fees for the Men’s Mikvah are quite reasonable. A daily visit costs $4. Erev Shabbat costs $7. Monthly access is $50. An annual membership is $750. The annual membership includes daily access, Erev Shabbat/Yomtov visits, and use of the children’s and keylim mikvah. Payment can be made by cash or credit card. This is through the vending machine near the turnstile.
The Keilim Mikvah is available daily. It is available from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM.
Some rules apply for the men’s mikvah. Minors must be accompanied by a parent. Visitors should bring their own towels. The facility provides soap and shampoo. Personal items should not be left behind.
As you stand here, remember the Lower Merion Community Mikvah. It is a place of renewal and spiritual significance.