The Sephardic Center held its first services in a new building at 9457 Abbott Ave. in Surfside on Sept. 11, opening the space for Rosh Hashanah.

The congregation serves more than 200 member families in Surfside and Bal Harbour. It had been based at 9524 Abbott Ave. The new location sits next to the Publix supermarket on Abbott Avenue, about a block from the previous address.

Rabbi Massri leads growing Sephardic congregation

Rabbi Yair Massri leads the center, which follows the Sephardic Yerushalmi prayer rite. Sharon Hakmon serves as president, Daniel Amram as chazan and Maoz Tal as teen director. More than 25 volunteers help run programming that includes daily prayer services, a night kollel, women's events, youth programs and weekly Torah classes.

The center announced the move in an Instagram post on Sept. 10, saying it could not wait to celebrate its first High Holidays in the new space. The center's website describes the project as a new permanent home for the growing community.

Nearby Sephardic congregations also serve Surfside

The Sephardic Center is one of several Sephardic congregations in Surfside. Hechal Shalom Or Oziel at 310 95th St. and Magen David of Surfside at 9348 Harding Ave. also serve the neighborhood.

Thursday night gatherings at the center feature Torah learning, cholent, l'chayim and music. Shabbat services include a Sephardic kiddush and seudah shelishit. The center describes itself as a place where families build lasting friendships and Jewish life is celebrated with warmth.

Residents can reach the Sephardic Center at 305-204-9333 or [email protected].

Upcoming Yom Kippur services set for Sept. 20-21

Upcoming

• Yom Kippur services: Sunset Sept. 20 through nightfall Sept. 21, at 9457 Abbott Ave., Surfside