About Glenwood and Hashmonaim
Our Yishuv
Hashmonaim is a small town located by the beautiful Ben Shemen forest between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. We are a few minutes drive from the city of Modi'in.
Our Mission
To be at the heart of religious and communal life in Hashmonaim, where all generations and backgrounds can come together to daven, learn, and connect with each other.
Our Values
We are a da'ati leumi community (national religious), commited to the Torah and the State of Israel. Our community strives to be the embodiment of Torah v'Avodah.
Our History
Founded in 1988, Glenwood is the largest shul in Hashmonaim. It serves over 220 families, comprising both native Israelis and Olim from around the world. The shul primarily follows Ashkenazi customs but also accommodates Sephard davening, with regular Torah lessons and various community activities for all residents of the yishuv.
The shul’s humble beginnings originated in a couple of multipurpose caravans. The current beautiful building was made possible thanks to generous donations from the Glenwood Jewish Center in Brooklyn, New York. The Bet Knesset’s name honors the original shul which was closed due to the dwindling congregation. Funds from the sale of the Brooklyn building were used as seed money to construct the shul in Hashmonaim. Memorial plaques from Brooklyn were also transferred, preserving the legacy of the original Glenwood community.
Today, our membership is comprised of native Israelis and immigrants from the USA, Great Britain, the Netherlands, South Africa, and more. The shul serves not only its members but the entire Hashmonaim community and visitors, hosting regular shiurim, lectures, and community activities.
