Our Story

Over Rabbi Larry Rothwachs’ 22 years at Congregation Beth Aaron in Teaneck, NJ, he witnessed 20% of his shul fulfill their aliyah dreams and move to Israel. While they would excitedly tell him about the joys and berachot of making aliyah, there was always one thing they missed in Israel: a community with the shul as its social and spiritual core.

Enter Meromei Shemesh.

In June 2022, the Rotshtein Company, one of Israel’s largest and most trusted apartment developers for over 60 years, approached Rabbi Rothwachs with their vision to create a redefined Anglo neighborhood adjacent to Ramat Beit Shemesh Aleph: Rotshtein Heights. With schools, parks, stores, 1,300 apartments, and more, all Rotshtein Heights needed was an American rabbi to build its first shul community. They named it Meromei Shemesh.

After speaking with Rabbi Rothwachs — a licensed social worker, a long-time American shul leader, and the Director of Professional Rabbinics at the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary — they knew they found the perfect fit. Alongside his decades of unparalleled rabbinic leadership, Rabbi Rothwachs’ communal dedication, sensitive care, and vibrant passion for community were exactly what Meromei Shemesh needed.

Meromei Shemesh is an aspirational, growth-oriented, and Torah-centric kehilla that feels like a family. This shul will be located in Rotshtein Heights and will thrive as the community’s social and spiritual center, just like in America.

Surrounded by Rotshtein Heights’ exceptional and newly constructed modern apartments, breathtaking views, and excellently maintained schools, parks, and stores, Meromei Shemesh ensures your smooth and comfortable welcome with this residential dream come true.

It’s your shul, your rabbi, your community — right here in Israel. Welcome to Meromei Shemesh.