General17:09 · 13h ago

Skver Hasidic Synagogue in US to Be Completely Demolished After Roof Collapse

Kikar HaShabbatReligious
Translated & summarized from Kikar HaShabbat by baba
The story · English

Three weeks after a sudden partial roof collapse at the old Skver Hasidic synagogue in the United States, experts have determined the entire historic building must be demolished due to serious structural instability. The collapse occurred in the southern section of the women's gallery ceiling, but miraculously no worshippers were present and no injuries were reported. Volunteers from the Hatzalah emergency organization confirmed the site was safe following the incident.

The old synagogue has served as the center of the Skver Hasidic community for decades and is located adjacent to a newly completed large synagogue building. While most major religious events have moved to the new hall, the old building was still used for smaller prayer groups and ceremonies. Initially, plans called for the old synagogue to become a hall for festive gatherings, but these plans have been abandoned due to the structural concerns.

Community leaders emphasize that the historic prayer room of the late Rebbe, which survived a major fire in the 1920s unscathed, will be preserved intact during the demolition. This prayer room holds great spiritual significance, as it was the only part of the original synagogue to remain undamaged in the fire. The demolition is expected to take place in the coming months, with preparations underway to clear and secure the site according to professional guidelines.

Read the original at Kikar HaShabbat
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