Welcoming the Jewish Community to the Madagascar Synagogue

The Madagascar Synagogue stands as a beacon of hope and connection for Jewish families and individuals in Madagascar. For centuries, the island has been home to a vibrant Jewish population, yet it lacked a designated house of worship. Our mission is to create a welcoming space where traditions can be honored, spiritual fulfillment found, and community bonds strengthened. As the first Jewish synagogue in Madagascar, we are committed to building a sanctuary that celebrates rich Jewish heritage while honoring the unique beauty of this land. Beyond the synagogue, we are blessed to offer comfortable bungalows for families during the Sabbath and high holy days, as well as two mikvot—one for men and one for women. Join us as we embark on this important journey of faith and community.

Building Community and Tradition in Madagascar

Batya and Jerry Kestenbaum visit members of the Madagascar community in the summer of 2024, who take them on a tour of the 1 hectare of land purchased for the community.
Our Mission
Our mission is to create a welcoming space for Jewish families in Madagascar to connect, worship, and celebrate traditions together.
4 teenage boys won awards donated by the Kestenbaums during a Mishnah konowledge contest

Youth Programs

The community holds regular Mishnah and Torah competitions for their youth to participate in and win prizes. In addition, all Jewish children learn Hebrew and study Torah weekly.

The Kestenbaum's brought 75 pounds of frozen red meat with them in 2024, as the community had not had any in over 2.5 years. They made shechianyu blessing on the meal cooked by the teenage boys, and enjoyed a kosher, traditional Malagasy meal!

Keeping Kosher in Madagascar

The community has a shochet, which allows them to enjoy chicken and lamb on holy days and shabbatot. They plant their own vegetables and fruit trees, and even produce their own beverages.

Here, members are planting fruit trees and plants during Tu Bishvat.

Community Celebrations

In Madagascar, there are many communal gatherings and holiday observances, reinforcing their shared heritage and strengthening bonds. Most recently, they planted fruit trees in celebration of Tu Bishvat.

Hear from Our Community: Experiences at The Madagascar Synagogue

"It has been one month now that the mikvah is in use. You can imagine how the women are happy. It's easier for them than to go to the river. They can shower and have more privacy. Thank you so much!"
R
Rabbi Moshe Yehouda
Head Rabbi, Madagascar Synagogue 3/22/2026