Jews Gather at Kingsbrook Hospital in Defiance of Shul Closure

By COLlive reporter

A Menorah lighting was held at Kingsbrook Hospital in Brooklyn on Wednesday night, in an act of defiance against those who have shut the beloved Shul after nearly 75 years of operation. The Menorah was lit by the victim of this week’s antisemitic attack on the NYC Subway.

The event was emceed by Sam Stern, who opened the program by addressing the rise in antisemitism and emphasizing the importance of Jewish pride, resilience, and living openly and unafraid. He explained that the location was chosen intentionally, noting that the entire building was constructed in response to antisemitism and that gathering there was meant to express solidarity with the synagogue.

The recitation of the 12 Pesukim was led by Rabbi Zalman Goldstein, a longtime trustee of the congregation and a synagogue leader for decades. Rabbi Goldstein shared personal memories of the shul and reflected on its role across generations, noting that some of the children reciting the Pesukim had their bris at the synagogue and now look forward to celebrating their bar mitzvahs there once it reopens.

The crowd chanted “We will not be erased” and “We will not be displaced,” and called for the synagogue’s reopening.

Tehillim for the safety of Jews worldwide and for peace in the world was led by Rabbi Yeruchem Silber of Agudath Israel. A representative of Agudath Israel spoke at the synagogue’s grand opening 75 years ago, and Rabbi Silber himself grew up and attended school in this neighborhood, adding a deeply personal connection to the moment.

Rabbi Yaacov Behrman then introduced Menachem, the victim of the recent antisemitic attack on the subway, who addressed the crowd and lit the menorah.

Menachem was with a group of other bochurim when were attacked Monday evening on the New York City subway as they were returning from a Chanukah mivtzoim outing in Manhattan. The bochurim quickly exited at the nearest station and immediately ran to a nearby police station. Police have opened an investigation.

Speaking to the crowd, Menachem said, “I never thought something like this would happen to me in New York. I love this city, and I was so excited to come here to learn.

“I know that the people who attacked me don’t represent most New Yorkers. Most people here are good people. I want to thank the NYPD and everyone who helped me and showed care. I chose to light the menorah to show that light will always win over darkness,” he said.

The organizers expressed their gratitude to the NYPD and to all who attended and stood together in a powerful display of unity and faith.