About Us

The Babylonian Jewish Center (BJC) of Great Neck was established in 1997, when members of the Iraqi Jewish community came together to form

a second Babylonian congregation in Great Neck, New York.

The vision behind BJC was clear: to create a vibrant environment dedicated to preserving, promoting, and continuing the rich culture, traditions, and heritage of Babylonian Jewry through religious, social, and educational life.

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From its earliest days, the congregation was active in bringing the community together through social gatherings and preliminary Hebrew classes, while laying the groundwork for formal synagogue life. Preparations soon followed for the first official prayer services, which were held during the 1998 High Holidays, marking an important milestone in the growth of the community and its spiritual home.

 

As the community continued to grow and flourish, so did its needs. In 2012,

the Town of North Hempstead granted approval for a major expansion

of the synagogue. Construction soon began, resulting in the expanded building that serves the community today — a space designed to support prayer, learning, celebration, and connection for all generations.

 

Today, BJC stands as a thriving synagogue and community center,

deeply rooted in the legacy of the Torah scholars of Baghdad and shaped

by an engaged, multigenerational community. Through worship, education, cultural programming, and shared experiences, BJC continues to honor its past while building a strong and meaningful future.

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To learn more about our roots and heritage, we invite you to click here to read Mr. Shlomo Bakhash’s essay on the history of our community.​