Kehilat Ohr Veachdut Marks New Chapter With Mezuzah Ceremony in Hillcrest

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This past weekend marked a major milestone for Kehilat Ohr Veachdut, the Bukharian Jewish Congregation of Hillcrest. Dozens gathered for a meaningful mezuzah-affixing ceremony at their newly acquired building — located just across the street from their current shul. The event wasn’t just about a building; it symbolized growth, unity, and a powerful sense of momentum for this fast-growing community.

Located in the heart of Hillcrest — right between Jamaica Estates, Fresh Meadows, and Kew Gardens Hills — Kehilat Ohr Veachdut has become a cornerstone for local Bukharian families. Under the guidance of their beloved Rav, Rabbi Nissan Shalomayev, and with the leadership of community president Mr. Ruben Gurgov, the kehilla recently acquired this new property, which will serve as the temporary location for all tefillot and programs while construction begins on their original site.

The move represents more than just logistics — it reflects a broader vision for the community’s future. Plans are already underway to include a mikvah kelim in the new space, a much-needed addition that will benefit families in Hillcrest and surrounding neighborhoods alike.

The mezuzah ceremony drew a beautiful crowd — rabbanim, neighbors, community leaders, and supporters, all joining together in song and berachah. After the affixing, attendees crossed the street to the main building, where a festive Bukharian-style meal awaited, complete with the community’s signature plov and other traditional favorites. It was a moment filled with smiles, laughter, and real pride in what had been accomplished — and what’s still to come.

Throughout the week, the shul is a hub of Torah learning and connection:

• Gemara shiurim are held on Mondays and Wednesdays.
• On Tuesdays, Chassidim from Williamsburg and Monroe join community members for chavrusa learning — a rare and moving collaboration that bridges worlds.
• Every Sunday before Shacharit, there's a class on hilchos Shabbos.
• On Shabbos, Rabbi Shalomayev gives drashot in both Russian and English, speaking to the diverse backgrounds in the room.
• The youth minyan, led by Rabbi Yonatan Aminov, gathers each Shabbos morning in the new building, helping guide the next generation of leaders.

With construction on the horizon, there’s a sense of excitement in the air — not just about bricks and mortar, but about building something lasting: a makom kadosh filled with Torah, tefillah, and a strong sense of family. Kehilat Ohr Veachdut isn’t just growing — it’s thriving, and this mezuzah ceremony was a proud reminder of how far they’ve come, and how much lies ahead.

By Shabsie Saphirstein