THE JEWISH CENTER OF THE MORICHES
631-878-0388
SYNAGOGUE · HEBREW SCHOOL · COMMUNITY
aboutus
The Jewish Center of the Moriches provides a place of worship for all who wish to participate. We provide religious, educational, social and recreational activities to foster, strengthen and promote Judaism and the Jewish way of life.
We encourage all people, young and old, to participate in our services, which are conducted in both Hebrew and English.
Our synagogue is wheelchair accessible.
All food served at our synagogue is certified kosher.
Our History
Prior to 1938, Jews in Center Moriches worshipped in their own homes. Sometime thereafter, about a dozen men agreed that it was time to congregate in one location and create a Jewish Center for their families and for future generations.
In 1950, this group of local Jewish farmers, merchants and friends purchased the homestead of the late State Assemblyman J.L. Havens and made the site the new home of the Jewish Center of the Moriches.
Their perseverance and dedication paid off. During the ensuing years, the founders and the new members they attracted were able to purchase two adjoining lots, enabling them to construct a new building to accommodate the growing congregation.
In 1966, U.S. Representative Otis G. Pike and other officials joined members of the congregation at the dedication of the newly constructed synagogue, which can seat 200 congregants and includes classrooms and a Rabbi’s study.
Spiritual Leader
High Holiday Services Update
Guest Rabbi for the High Holidays
Rabbi Mathew Marko: A Dynamic, Compassionate Spiritual Leader for Our Times
Rabbi Mathew Marko brings a wealth of diverse experiences to his role as a spiritual leader. Born in Brooklyn, New York, he embarked on multiple careers—as an actor, custom furniture maker, and rabbi—before dedicating himself fully to Jewish leadership. Ordained from the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies, he integrates his love for Torah, creativity, and community-building into every aspect of his work.
Rabbi Marko served as Senior Rabbi at Tifereth Israel Synagogue in San Diego and Congregation Beth Israel in Greenville, South Carolina. He successfully reinvigorated these communities, focusing on inclusivity, creative programming, and fostering strong connections. Known for his warm, approachable nature, Rabbi Marko builds relationships quickly and encourages congregants to explore Jewish tradition in meaningful ways.
A passionate advocate for Israel, Rabbi Marko’s personal experiences, including time spent on kibbutz and his work as an AIPAC Leffell Rabbinic Leadership fellow, deeply inform his rabbinic work. He is equally at home leading prayers, discussing Jewish law, or crafting synagogue furniture—a reflection of his unique combination of skills and interests.
With a focus on constant self-improvement, Rabbi Marko believes that individuals are not called to be perfect but to grow each day. His leadership is grounded in the values of Torah, Avodah, and Gemilut Hasadim, and he is committed to guiding his community with compassion, creativity, and a deep sense of purpose.
Future Plans
We are actively searching for a new spiritual leader to guide our congregation. During this transitional period, our services will be conducted by guest leaders, ensuring that our tradition of meaningful and inspiring worship continues.
Thank you for your understanding and support as we navigate this important process.
