Chabad Joins Leadership of Historic Park East Synagogue in NYC
Park East Synagogue and Chabad of the Upper East Side have announced a collaborative partnership beginning this Rosh Hashanah. Rabbi Ben-Tzion Krasnianski, who has led Chabad of the Upper East Side for the past 35 years, will serve as Associate Rabbi alongside Senior Rabbi Arthur Schneier, who has led Park East since 1962 and is the longest-serving rabbi in New York City.
Park East Synagogue and Chabad of the Upper East Side have announced a collaborative partnership beginning this Rosh Hashanah. Rabbi Ben-Tzion Krasnianski, who has led Chabad of the Upper East Side for the past 35 years, will serve as Associate Rabbi alongside Senior Rabbi Arthur Schneier, who has led Park East since 1962 and is the longest-serving rabbi in New York City. Rabbi Yosef Wilhelm, director of Chabad Young Professionals UES, will join as Assistant Rabbi along with the broader Chabad team.
Founded in 1890, Park East Synagogue is among New York City's prominent Orthodox congregations. Rabbi Schneier is a Holocaust survivor and advocate for religious freedom and cultural dialogue.
In a letter to congregants, Rabbi Schneier and Park East President Les Lieberman described the partnership as "an important new chapter" In the synagogue's 136-year history. "This collaboration brings together two vibrant Jewish communities with a shared commitment to Torah, prayer, education, and acts of kindness," They wrote, noting the partnership will "expand the opportunities available to our members and create an even more dynamic and welcoming synagogue experience."
The collaboration will enhance weekday and Shabbos programming, Torah classes, lectures, holiday celebrations, and programming for young professionals, families, and members of all ages.
Rabbi Krasnianski reflected on his arrival on the Upper East Side in 1991 to establish Chabad, stating "The Rebbe's love for every single Jew knew no bounds." He characterized the partnership as "a giant leap forward" In the mission to ensure "No Jew should be left behind."
Park East will become home to many divisions and programs including Chabad's Young Professionals community, Friendship Circle, Young Families programming, the Upper East Side Kollel, Chabad at Hunter College, and educational initiatives. Rabbi Krasnianski highlighted the work of multiple rabbi couples serving various community segments and thanked supporters who helped build the Schneerson Center for Jewish Life, which houses a mikvah, the Upper East Side Kollel, a preschool, and online Torah initiatives.
Both announcements stressed that the collaboration is rooted in a shared commitment to strengthening Jewish life in the neighborhood.
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