Artist Quarter Minyan Restores Historic Building in Tzfas

By Susan Cohen
Photos: Jodi Sugar

After a four-month extensive renovation, the doors were officially opened to the permanent home of the Artist Quarter Minyan in the holy northern Israeli city of Tzfas.

It has taken three years to transition from house minyan to a thriving congregation. Founded in 2017, Americans Rabbi Zalman and Chana Traxler along with Zalman Nelson, saw a need for the growing Anglo community to find a shul where language and customs were not a barrier.

The Traxlers first fell in love with Tzfas as students – Zalman at Yeshiva Tzeiri Hashluchim, and Chana at Machon Alte.

After their marriage, they settled in Tzfas as newlyweds in 2012, and started a family and several businesses, including a laundromat and selling art online. They were determined to find a way to serve the growing Anglo Jewish community.

In February, with the Traxlers about to lose their space, they negotiated to take over the former Shaarei Bina Seminary. With extensive restoration needed, they recruited a core of volunteers to knock down walls, fix broken glass, plaster, paint and garden.

It now is home not only to a sanctuary but a library, community and children’s room, kitchen, women and children’s gemach and a safe and secure rooftop for the wide array of functions in store for the growing congregation.

The ark now houses a Torah on loan from the city of Chevron. Arranged by longtime Chabad representatives Rabbi Danny and Batsheva Cohen, it was retrieved from the quarantined-closed Maarat Hamachpela in a special arrangement with the army.

Last week, mezuzot made by renowned local artist Sheva Chaya were affixed by Mayor Shuki Ohana as part of a program commemorating the 26th anniversary of the Rebbe‘s passing. After sharing a personal memory from his trip to the United States last year and a moving visit to the Rebbe’s library and the Ohel, the mayor spoke about his commitment to Anglo residents.

“The English speaking community strengthens Tzfas with its experience, education and commitment to the city. This beautiful building is an inspiration and reflects your willingness to participate fully in the economic, spiritual and cultural growth of our city. I recognize the abundance of resources you bring and promise to do everything possible to make the absorption of new olim as easy as possible. ”

The mayor called on us to encourage the surge of new olim expected in coming months. ” New residents will be helped in every area- housing, employment and education. They will be a big part of our economic development plans, and can count on the municipality to help them transition into a rewarding life here.”

Mayor Ohana also assured the audience that as the community grows, so will the resources. ” I want to take this moving occasion to invite you to partner with us in encouraging Aliyah, and to actively participate in making Tzfas a safe and productive home for English speakers.”

Despite the continued fundraising challenges, the Traxlers have big plans for the burgeoning congregation.

“Our vision is to continue to grow as a spiritual and cultural center bustling with local and tourist activity.and to grow as a nurturing hub of authentic Judaism.”

For more info and to support their work, visit Chabadbythegalleries.com