Rabbi Emeritus Manfred Gans ז”ל
Rabbi Gans’ memory continues to be a guiding presence in our congregation, community and beyond. After leading our congregation for sixty years in 2010 Rabbi Gans retired, continuing to serve the community as a beloved elder statesman until his passing away in August of 2020 at the age of 96. Under his leadership the Congregation has developed into one of the major Synagogues in Forest Hills-Rego Park. Rabbi Gans is a scholar, a gifted speaker and educator who, in addition to his position as Synagogue Rabbi, functioned as principal of leading Yeshivot in metropolitan New York. The founder and chairman of the board at Otsar Family Services, he is deeply involved in the welfare of the Jewish community, with leadership positions in numerous Jewish organizations and is a dedicated supporter of Medinat Israel – The State Israel. Rabbi Gans served as President of the Vaad Harabonim of Queens – The Rabbinical Council of Queens. His warm and friendly personality has endeared him to countless people of all ages.
Rabbi and Rebbetzin Yossi and Mushky Mendelson
Rabbi Mendelson has been with our congregation since August of 2010 and during this short time he has endeared himself to us with his warm likeable personality, inspiring and thought-provoking sermons and classes and the interactive, lively and accessible service he leads. Prior to becoming our Rabbi, Rabbi Mendelson long served the Jewish community in Forest Hills. He and his wife, Mushky, along with their seven children, have lived in Forest Hills since 2005. Rabbi Mendelson joins our congregation from the Queens Jewish Center, where he served since 2005. Prior to that, Rabbi Mendelson taught Judaic studies at the Jewish Institute of Queens high school and served in leadership positions in Synagogues in Manhattan, Omaha, NE and Riverdale. Rabbi Mendelson also serves as Clergy Liaison for the NYPD and Chaplain at New York Presbyterian-Queens Hospital.
Rebbetzin Mendelson is beloved by all for her unassuming and friendly manner. She has proven herself to be a significant leader in our congregation. Under her guidance, our Shul and Sisterhood have initiated many new and exciting programs. Before she became our Rebbetzin, Mushky was already widely known in the community for her hospitality. She is an accomplished educator having taught both Judaic and Secular studies at Beth Jacob Bnei Miriam in the Bronx and Yeshiva Primary in Queens.