Ultimate Shul Design

Last night's Leil Shishi was nothing short of extraordinary. As we conclude the Parshiyos detailing the construction of the Mishkan, we took on an exciting challenge of our own - building the ultimate Mikdash Me’at.
Rabbi Cohen opened the evening with an inspiring introduction, highlighting how Betzalel, the chief architect of the Mishkan, was only thirteen years old. He challenged the boys to see themselves as the Betzalels of this generation - builders of the future, shaping the spiritual spaces of their communities.
Each of the Yavneh Rabbanim passionately presented different aspects of what makes a shul special, encouraging the boys to consider these elements in their own designs. Rabbi Schwarz spoke about the importance of obtaining a mehudar Sefer Torah written by a Yerei Shamayim, ensuring that the heart of the shul is crafted with true sanctity. Rabbi Wulwick emphasised the need to create a Makom Torah, incorporating an extensive library and even utilizing digital resources like Otzar HaChochma to enhance Torah learning. Rabbi Simmonds highlighted the significance of kovea makom l’tefilaso, stressing the importance of having a fixed place for davening and the consistency it brings to one’s connection with Hashem. Rav Elad explained the halachic requirement for a shul to have twelve windows which enhances the spiritual atmosphere. Rabbi Schwalbe urged the boys not to settle for a minimalistic mechitza but to ensure it meets higher standards, preserving the sanctity of the tefillah environment. Finally, Rabbi Rickman connected the Aron Kodesh and Bimah to their representations of the Aron and Mizbeach in the Mishkan, highlighting their significance in the overall design of a shul.
The students were then divided into groups and given a budget to design their own ideal shul. Creativity flowed as they worked through the logistics, ensuring their Mikdash Me’at would be both inspiring and functional. As the groups worked through their designs, the energy in the Beis HaMedrash was electric. Some boys found creative ways to stretch their budgets, and with the encouragement and enthusiasm of Bobby Wagon and Elisha Scheftz, the excitement only grew. Their infectious ruach and support motivated others to think outside the box, bringing an extra spark to the challenge.
The Beis HaMedrash buzzed with energy as each group worked meticulously on their designs. Rabbi Joseph ran the “supply shop,” where boys could purchase essential materials for their projects. The shop was constantly bustling, as students negotiated, bartered, and stretched their budgets to maximize their resources.
Then came the moment of truth: the presentations. Each of the ten groups confidently pitched their vision, describing their ideal Mikdash Me’at with impressive detail and passion. Their creativity and realism convinced us that we were witnessing the future shul presidents, gabbaim, and Rabbanim in the making.
Mazel tov to the winning team, Beis B’Natan, consisting of Toli Hasleton, Natanel Rose, Noam Rose, and Alex Kopirovski. Their outstanding teamwork, devotion, and particularly their focus on incorporating and engaging children in their shul set them apart as the winners of the evening.
The ruach throughout the night was truly palpable, as the boys embraced the spirit of the challenge with enthusiasm and determination. The evening wrapped up with well-earned pizza and chips, capping off another unforgettable Leil Shishi.
This event was a testament to the creativity, leadership, and passion of our students, and we can’t wait to see how they take these lessons forward in their own communities!