2 Leading Conservative Newark Congregations May Merge

A notable religious merger may be effected here in the possible amalgamation of Temple B’nai Abraham, the largest Conservative Jewish edifice of worship in New Jersey, and Oheb Shalom Synagogue, an equally prominent Conservative congregation. Rumors current here of the probable merger became even more pronounced last night, despite lack of confirmation from congregational officers, when it was learned that a private meeting of leaders of both congregations has been called for next Monday night.

Albert Hollander, president of Temple B’nai Abraham, was reluctant to discuss the proposed plans but he did acknowledge that a meeting has been called. Samuel Schechner, president of Oheb Shalom Synagogue, could not be reached last night, but Ira I. Schwartz, vice-president, termed the proposed action as “very vague” and affirmed his belief that “there is nothing to it.”

Like Mr. Hollander, Herman Kussy, former president of Oheb Shalom Synagogue, also acknowledged the fact that a meeting will take place, but asserted that he did not know its purpose. Among those with intimate knowledge of Jewish affairs, the rumors of a possible merger have been persisting for some time.

Temple B’nai Abraham, erected several years ago at a cost said to have exceeded $1,500,000, includes among its congregants the Hollander family, Louis V. Aaronson, Philip J. Schotland, William S. Rich, and others well known among the local Jewish community.

Oheb Shalom Congregation last April observed its 70th anniversary. The Kussy family, Joseph Stern and others are prominently identified with it.

Those among whom the rumors persisted, advance economy as the basic reason for any possible merger. It would ease any existing financial strain and give Newark a united Conservative Jewry, they assert.