Congregation Magen David of West Deal’s New Mikveh

On a crystal-clear Friday morning, Congregation Magen David of West Deal revealed what some believe is the crowning jewel in its ever-expanding complex—the Gladys Kassin Mikveh/Stephanie Jemal Sultan Building.
Due to an overwhelming influx of new residents over the past several years, the demand for another mikveh at the Jersey Shore could no longer be ignored. The Board of Congregation Magen David, led by its chairman, Charlie Saka and his wife, Brenda, rose to the challenge. With the assistance of Jack and Asaf Tamir, who headed the construction, they created a magnificent venue in which myriads of women will perform a most central mitzvah for decades to come. The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was a perfect tribute to the building, and to all those involved in its completion. Hundreds of community members attended the first-class brunch donated by Benny Azizov of NYK Caterers. The synagogue’s social hall looked magnificent thanks to Doris Dwek Events and Anna’s Flowers. Gift bags containing hallot for Shabbat, celebratory labbas, and women’s siddurim were distributed to all who attended.

A dais running the entire width of the room was filled with most of the community’s rabbis in a splendid show of unity. Harry Adjmi emceed, as awards were given to various donors, including Mr. & Mrs. Jack A. Kassin and family, who dedicated the mikveh in honor of their mother, and Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence Jemal and family, who dedicated the building in memory of their daughter. Mr. & Mrs. Jacob S. Kassin and family, and the Chehebar family were honored, as well, for their generosity. Rabbi Saul J. Kassin was presented with an award for his instrumental role in the project. He consulted with rabbinical experts to ensure that the mikveh would be built to the highest standards of halakha. He spoke about the importance of shalom bayit and family purity, which are integrally connected to the mitzvah of mikveh.
Other speakers included Rabbi Yosef Galimidi, Rabbi Eli Mansour, Rabbi Edmond Nahum, Rabbi Shlomo Diamond and Rabbi Michael Haber. A video was shown of Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef, the Chief Rabbi of Israel, Rabbi Shlomo Amar, the Chief Rabbi of Jerusalem, and Rabbi Meir Mazuz, all speaking about the importance of the new mikveh.

Charlie Saka spoke about the evolution of the project, after which he and his family were given the final award of the morning. After seeing the building itself, however, many would agree that the award was truly deserved by Brenda, for it was her meticulous eye for detail that made it what it is today.

Following the award ceremony, people were guided towards the mikveh building for the big reveal. Rabbi Shemuel Pinchasi gave a special beracha. As Hazan Shlomo Teherani sang pizmonim, the founding families, led by Gladys Kassin, cut the ribbon, and then pulled down curtains, revealing the exterior of the building. After Rabbi Azriel Mansour installed the front door mezuzah, the crowds were led through the building room by room, each of which is named for a different flower and decorated as such. The facility is state-of-the-art, complimented by a serene, spa-like décor. It includes four luxury preparation suites, plus a special bridal suite, spacious foyer and a dedicated make-up room. The multiple prep rooms allow for an efficient and seamless experience for the community’s women, who will soon be able to conveniently book their appointments via a cell phone app. Strategically located for geographic convenience, especially on Friday and holiday nights, it allows for a safe and private option. The foyer houses the Rachel Tawil A”H Eshet Hayil wall in tribute to the wives and mothers of our community, as well as a founders wall in appreciation of the generous donors who enabled the completion of this holy project. In addition, the Joe & Trina Cayre bridal wall has been dedicated to honor all the women who use the bridal suite. Decorative floor to ceiling etched privacy windows adorn the front of the building and are visible from the parking lot.

The Gladys Kassin Mikveh/ Stephanie Jemal Sultan Building, is now part of the Magen David complex, which stands in the heart of our vital and growing community. No doubt it will see further growth in the future, as the Jersey Shore community continues to grow and flourish!q