This summer, Rabbi Levi Mushaiev and Congregation Derech Emunah transformed the former Holtzer residence at the corner of 70th Avenue and 147th Street in Kew Gardens Hills into a new home for the growing kehillah. The renovated space has bright, marble-look walls and long tables that serve for both learning and shared meals. Photos from the campus show Rabbi Mushaiev learning with groups of boys and children gathering around a table to eat.
The building was already hosting programs during Chol Hamoed Sukkot. From September 28 through October 1, Derech Emunah held a morning program for boys ages 8 to 12, open to all boys. Led by Rabbi Maimon Ohayon, each day began with breakfast at 9:45, followed by learning from 10 to 10:30. Story time and a raffle followed from 10:30 to 10:45, with prizes and additional activities.
Founded in 2024, Derech Emunah has grown from a small group into a kehillah with daily minyanim, morning and evening learning, a night kollel, shiurim for baalei batim, women’s programming, and activities for children. Its campaign seeks to secure a permanent home for the growing congregation.
Rabbi Mushaiev had hoped to settle in Lakewood, but his rebbe encouraged him to return to Queens and help build a Torah presence here. His work in Queens has included serving as executive director of Queens Cheder and as director of Midrash L’man Achai, where he worked with yeshivah students.
He also serves as co-director of Oorah’s Rebbetzins Network, which pairs singles with mentors and shadchanim and offers guidance through the dating process. He has also taken on a position within Emet Outreach.
Derech Emunah Transforms Former Holtzer Residence Into a Torah Center
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