Thank you to the hundreds who turned out in Newark on May 23rd for the Walk of Ages. We gathered with our friends from Wells Cathedral Church of God in Christ at the old Prince Street Synagogue and learned about what the Greater Newark Conservancy is doing to renovate the historic space and toured their incredible Prudential Outdoor Learning Center. After a short Opening Ceremony, featuring remarks from Newark Deputy Mayor Stefan Pryor, we were off on our walk to the old High Street Synagogue, home to the Wells Cathedral Congregation since 1958.

Upon arrival at Wells Cathedral, ushers from both congregations welcomed us and we enjoyed a stirring, dramatic and emotional interfaith service led by Rabbi Cooper and Pastor Hersey Taylor. Choirs from both congregations filled the historic space with uplifting melodies which brought everyone to their feet. After the service, a gourmet lunch with cake was served in the church's basement and the weather held out long enough for us to eat outside with a great view of lower Manhattan.

Even as more donations are still coming in, we're happy to announce that the Walk of Ages participants from both congregations raised more than $7,000 for three local and deserving charities. Those dollars will go a long way in helping people in our area who need it -- a mission that both Oheb Shalom and Wells Cathedral are proud to continue. This is just the beginning of a long and important relationship between our two congregations.

Thanks to Oheb150 Memories Benefactors Judy and Fred Simon, June and Michael Schechner, Norma and David Schechner, and Betty Feinberg, corporate sponsors Bernheim Apter Kreitzman Chapel, In Thyme Catering and Provident Bank, our dedicated volunteers, and the City of Newark.

All photos are courtesy of Ben Drucker.
Reprints are available for purchase at www.bdrucker.com.