The Jewish community of Tyumen, Siberia, recently celebrated a momentous series of events marking the growth and revival of Jewish life in the city. The inauguration of a newly built state-of-the-art mikvah, the affixing of a mezuzah at a new rented and temporary Chabad House and synagogue, and the laying of the cornerstone for an upcoming wide and permanent Jewish educational and community center, all took place in a grand, spiritually uplifting gathering.
Tyumen, a major industrial hub, has attracted a growing Jewish population over the years. Fifteen years ago, Rabbi Yerachmiel Gorelik and his wife arrived to lead the Jewish community, establishing a vibrant Chabad center despite the harsh Siberian climate and various challenges. Their dedication has helped strengthen Jewish identity in the city, fostering an active and engaged community. As the original location could no longer accommodate the expanding congregation, local and international donors came together to fund a new, modern space for Jewish life in Tyumen.
Chief Rabbi of Russia, Berel Lazar, traveled from Moscow as the guest of honor, accompanied by a delegation of community supporters. Their presence brought warmth and encouragement to the local Jewish residents.
The festivities began with the affixing of a mezuzah at the main entrance of the rented and temporary new synagogue and Chabad House, followed by words of Torah and blessings from Rabbi Lazar. Following, in his remarks, Rabbi Gorelik expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the entire Jewish community for the unwavering support that made this historic day possible.
The celebrations continued at the newly constructed mikvah, a beautifully designed ritual bath built according to the highest halachic standards. The mikvah’s architectural design was overseen by Rabbi Mordechai Menashe Gorlik, Rabbi Gorelik’s father, a renowned expert in synagogue and mikvah construction. Rabbi Gorelik was honored with placing a mezuzah at one of the mikvah’s entrances.
Following a joyous Chassidic gathering with donors and friends, the delegation proceeded to the future site of the Jewish Community and Educational Center, where they laid the cornerstone for the long-anticipated building. In a deeply symbolic moment, snow was cleared away with shovels, Psalms were recited, and the foundation stone—brought from the courtyard of the iconic 770 building in New York—was placed, signifying the community’s connection to its heritage. Participants committed to supporting the new center, with some pledging a magnificent Aron Kodesh (Torah Ark), a new Torah scroll, and other essential items for the facility.
Adding to the day’s joy, the community also celebrated the Bar Mitzvah of Note Gorlik, son of Rabbi Yerachmiel Gorelik. The event was attended by many local dignitaries and community members, who used the occasion to express their appreciation for the Gorlik family’s tireless efforts in reviving Jewish life in Tyumen.
