The rise of “mushroom synagogues” during the High Holy Day period is menacing the existence of the all-year-round functioning congregations, many of which are already in a critical financial condition, states an appeal of the Vaad Horabonim, rabbinical council, and Vaad Hair, Jewish community council of Detroit, to the Detroit Jewish community.
The statement of the rabbis declares that the “mushroom synagogues” divert funds that would otherwise go to the functioning congregations. Warning is issued against the rise of temporary congregations in halls where dances are conducted throughout the year, in theatres, garages and other places unfit for religious services. According to the statement the use of such places for religious services, and the placing of Sefer Torahs in them, is prohibited by Jewish law.
The statement charges that such “mushroom synagogues” are organized by private people for personal profit, thereby depriving synagogues of income and placing many of them in danger of closing up because they are not receiving the Holy Days’ income upon whic they depend for their existence.
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