How did a haven for Sephardic traditions blossom in Fort Lee? In the mid-1980s a group of young Sephardic families sought a place to practice their unique liturgy. This led to the establishment of the Sephardic Congregation of Fort Lee. It became a spiritual home for its worshippers.
The Sephardic Congregation of Fort Lee has roots in the Spanish Inquisition. Jews fled persecution in the late 15th century. They sought refuge in North Africa. They thrived there for over 500 years. In 1956 Morocco gained independence. This forced the community to move again this time to the USA. This move led to the first Sephardic congregation in Bergen County.
Today the Sephardic Congregation of Fort Lee is thriving. It offers daily minyanim and shiurim. There are programs for adults and children. Lavish kiddushim are a regular feature. The congregation has a rabbi and over 100 families from diverse backgrounds.
Visitors often remark on the warmth they feel. They say it’s a place where you never feel lost in the crowd. Your participation truly makes a difference. The Sephardic Congregation of Fort Lee does not have membership fees. Fees are only for High Holiday seats. The congregation ensures no one is turned away for inability to pay.
The Sephardic Congregation of Fort Lee is planning an expansion. Plans include enlarging the social hall. A new classroom for children is planned. A new kitchen and a mikvah will be built.
The Sephardic Congregation of Fort Lee extends a warm invitation to new families. They even offer financial aid to those relocating to Fort Lee.
The Sephardic Congregation of Fort Lee was established in 1984. It maintains distinct minhagim cultural standards and meaningful values. These reflect a joyous approach to Jewish living. It is accepting and connected to the world.
The Sephardic Congregation of Fort Lee’s community is religiously diverse. It includes observant families. Some families are traditional but not fully observant. Some families have a cultural affiliation. They identify as Jewish and participate in annual rituals. Some families are on the periphery of the Jewish community. The unifying thread is attendance at the Sephardic Congregation of Fort Lee for religious services. The congregation is inclusive avoiding internal divisions. It seeks to unite its members.
The Sephardic Congregation of Fort Lee maintains a deep connection to its heritage. This is manifested through paytanut. This includes knowledge and practice of its unique liturgy. Culturally it connects through language like French and Judeo-Arabic. Its traditions are reflected in its foods and love of family. Caring for community members is a central value. It is passed down through generations.
Rabbi Ilan Acoca leads the Sephardic Congregation of Fort Lee. He was raised in Bat-Yam Israel and moved to Montreal at thirteen. He received rabbinical ordination and a Master’s Degree in Talmudic studies. Rav Acoca is an expert Mohel. In 2016 Rav Acoca published his book “The Sephardic Book of Why”.
Rabbanit Dina Acoca has worked in Jewish education for over 30 years. She was raised in Montreal Quebec in a Sephardic Moroccan community. She is a dedicated and passionate teacher to students of all ages.
The mikvah at the Sephardic Congregation of Fort Lee was donated by Rabbi Simon Abergel. It was recently renovated. It is the only one in Fort Lee.
The Bet Yosef Sisterhood is a dynamic part of the community. It unites women fostering social connections and providing support. They contribute to the synagogue’s welfare. The Sisterhood organizes educational and social programs. They host weekly Kiddushim. These elevate the Shabbat experience.
The Sephardic Congregation of Fort Lee through its vibrant community and rich traditions offers a warm welcome to all who seek a connection to Sephardic heritage.