New Light in the Golan: First Synagogue and Historic Torah Scroll Dedication in Kibbutz Merom Golan
A historic moment in the Golan: Kibbutz Merom Golan celebrates the opening of its first synagogue ever, along with an exciting Torah scroll dedication.
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A particularly exciting event at Kibbutz Merom Golan: The dedication of the first-ever synagogue in the kibbutz's history. The event, held in the festive atmosphere of Chanukah, also featured a magnificent and moving Torah scroll dedication, attended by kibbutz members, the head of the Golan Regional Council, Uri Kalner, local residents, and security forces. What began as a private initiative by kibbutz member Doron Bogodovsky has turned into an inspiring project, symbolizing an emotional connection between tradition, community, and faith—even in the heart of the northern kibbutz.
Rabbi Shlomo Ra'anan, chairman of the "Eyalet HaShachar" organization, recounts: "The establishment of the synagogue in Merom Golan came following an appeal by Doron Bogodovsky, a kibbutz member, who heard from members of the nearby kibbutz, Sde Nehemia, about a synagogue we established there."
"The idea took a few years to unfold; we presented the request to the kibbutz secretariat members, who initially feared the involvement of a Haredi rabbi," added Rabbi Ra'anan, noting that trust between him and the kibbutz members had developed over time after they realized he had no intention of changing the kibbutz's character.
Local residents rallied unprecedentedly to establish the synagogue, which is now one of the most magnificent in the entire Golan Heights. The sacred place was built to very high standards and meticulously designed by top architects, featuring impressive and high-quality furniture.
''The synagogue's dedication is a festive day for us," said kibbutz members, "After more than a year of having to uproot from our homes due to the war, we are fortunate to return to the kibbutz with a new synagogue. In yesterday's *shehecheyanu* blessing, we included both the synagogue and our return home."