After nearly a century in government hands, the historic shul in Ulan-Ude, the capital of the Republic of Buryatia in southeastern Russia, has been officially returned to the local Jewish community.

The shul first opened its doors in 5642 (1882), serving the Jews of the city until it was confiscated by the Communist authorities in 5689 (1929). Over the decades that followed, the once sacred building was used for various secular purposes, including as a university building and an aviation club.

Following a lengthy effort that was officially completed during 5786, historical documents proved that the property belonged to the Jewish community, allowing the building to be returned to its rightful owners. The project was advanced with the involvement of philanthropist Yan Yankelovich, a supporter of Jewish life in the region.

Rabbi Aharon Hakohen Wagner, Shliach and mara d’asra of Irkutsk, who has been closely involved with the Jewish community of Ulan-Ude, said the restoration will be a major undertaking. Plans include removing an upper floor that was added during the Soviet era and restoring the original structure of the building.

According to community head Yosef Samsonov, Mr. Yankelovich has undertaken the restoration project, which will include building a new Aron Kodesh and returning a Magen Dovid to the top of the dome, as it stood in earlier years. Rabbi Binyamin Wagner, Shliach and Rov of Krasnoyarsk, encouraged the project and remained involved throughout.

Chief Rabbi of Russia Rabbi Berel Lazar has been following the progress of the project and is expected to host the donor to give his bracha for the initiative. In a message marking the occasion, it was noted that the return of the shul is not only the restoration of a historic building, but a powerful sign of the victory of light over darkness and the continued growth of Jewish life after decades of Communist oppression.

Community leaders are now working to complete the required permits so renovation work can begin. They hope that with the restoration and reopening of the shul, Jewish life in Ulan-Ude will be strengthened and renewed for the local community and future generations.

Photo: Community Spokesperson