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Welcome to Congregation Bais Tefilah

Congregation Bais Tefilah is a close-knit, warm, multi-generational, Modern Orthodox Synagogue in the heart of Woodmere, NY.  As its name implies, Bais Tefilah provides its members with a serious environment to daven and connect with Hashem.  However, Bais Tefilah is so much more than just a place to daven.  It provides its members with stimulating shiurim and learning opportunities on a regular basis. Every member, whether with a stronger or weaker learning background, can find appropriate and engaging educational opportunities within our walls. 

Bais Tefilah is actively engaged in Israel advocacy and social programming.  Our programming committee and sisterhood work to ensure Bais Tefilah is your spiritual home away from home, welcoming you and providing you with a warm environment conducive to spiritual growth. Our youth program is second to none, with youth directors and leaders eagerly waiting to interact with your children.  Whether it is during regular youth groups, or our special “extra-curriculur” activities, our kids love coming to shul. 

Come join us for Shabbos, for a tefilah, or for one of our exciting shiurim or programs and see all that we have to offer!

Rabbi Ephraim Polakoff 

Rabbi Ephraim and Tova Polakoff and their family joined the Bais Tefilah family in September of 2015.  Prior to becoming the rabbi of Bais Tefilah, Rabbi Polakoff served as the assistant rabbi of the Young Israel of Staten Island, as well as the assistant rabbi of the Young Israel of Long Beach.  Rabbi Polakoff also teaches at the DRS High School for Boys in Woodmere as well as at the SKA High School for Girls in Hewlett.

Rabbi Polakoff, originally from Great Neck, NY, studied at Yeshiva Derech HaTalmud in Yerushalayim under Rav Chaim Ilson, one of the esteemed students of Rav Yosef Dov Soloveitchik, זצ"ל.  He then attended Yeshiva University and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.  Rabbi Polakoff continued his studies at the Ner Israel Rabbinical College in Baltimore, MD, where he received semicha in 2011.  Concurrently, he attended classes at YU’s Azrieli Graduate School and graduated with a Master’s degree in Jewish Education in 2012.

Tova (Frank) Polakoff, originally from Teaneck, NJ, graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Stern College for Women in 2008.  Since that time she has taught general and Judaic studies to elementary, middle, and high school girls.  Currently, Tova is a beloved Dean of Students at Bnos Bais Yaakov and Tichon Meir Moshe High School in Far Rockaway.  Tova is also an active Rebbetzin, hosting Shabbos meals and giving regular shiurim to the women of the community.

The Polakoffs are blessed with seven beautiful children - Yisrael Meir, Zevy, Gavriel, Aharon, Asher, Yafa, and Devora.

 

Rabbi Polakoff

rabbipolakoff@gmail.com

Tue, March 19 2024 9 Adar II 5784