New Shul Inaugurated in Moscow Prison

A new shul inaugurated in Moscow Prison with the participation of the Chief Rabbi of Russia, Rabbi Berel Lazar, joins a dozen active shuls in Russian prisons, aiming to bring light to the inmates and reduce recidivism.

Thanks to the investment from the Moscow Prison Service administration, another shul for Jewish inmates was inaugurated in a Moscow prison, joining 12 such shuls across the capitol.

The new space will host Torah classes, tefillin laying, as well as talks of support—continuing the work of community members who visit the prison. With the opening of this new facility, the activities will gain momentum and organization, with the help of the prison administration, which is pleased by the positive impact on the inmates.

The renovation and opening of the new synagogue were led by Rabbi Aharon Gurevitz, the prison chaplain who has been working across Russia for many years, serving both Jewish soldiers and prisoners. This initiative now includes a dozen shuls in various prisons, with some holding weekly classes and meetings.

Federal Prison Chief Sergey Moroz, the prison warden Ilya Aristov, and his deputies awaited the arrival of the Chief Rabbi of Russia, Rabbi Berel Lazar, who was received with an honor guard of local officers. After a general tour of the facility and its different sections, the guests were brought to the new shul, where some of the Jewish inmates were already waiting. They laid tefillin and davened. After the first group finished, a second group of inmates from another wing was brought in.

Together with volunteers from the Jewish community who visit the prison regularly, conversations were held with the inmates to uplift their spirits and address their Jewish needs. The Chief Rabbi spoke about the significance of the time—Elul, when the King is in the field—and the need for personal strengthening in emuna and bitachon, especially as the new year approaches. At the end of his speech, he blew the shofar in honor of Elul.

The Chief Warden highlighted the positive impact this connection to religion and observance has on the inmates, noting when these inmates are released, they don’t return to prison. Certificates of appreciation were presented by the Chief Rabbi and Rabbi Gurevitz to the prison administration, expressing gratitude for their extensive investment in refurbishing the facility, including a comprehensive Jewish library.

Photos: Moscow Prison Service