Rededication planned for renovated R.I. community mikveh

Built in 1982, the local mikveh on the East Side of Providence was in serious need of renovation and plans for a major overhaul were proposed. 

The mikveh is a ritual pool that has been an integral part of Jewish life since ancient times.

The mikveh is critical both for performing the mitzvah of taharat hamishpacha (Family Purity) and for the process of conversion to Judaism.

According to Jewish law, the mitzvah of building a mikveh takes precedence over building a synagogue. Since the role of the mikveh is vital, the rabbis ruled that a synagogue or Torah scroll may be sold to raise funds for the construction of a mikveh. 

The renovation of the 32-year-old mikveh was completed thanks to local donors and a generous endowment from Mikvah USA, a New York based organization that supports the establishment and rebuilding of mikvaot nationwide. 

The community is invited to an open house on Aug. 24 at 1 p.m. in the Board Room at the Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, to celebrate the rededication of the newly modernized mikveh and thank the donors who made it possible. There will be an opportunity to tour the mikveh facility and check out its updated look. 

For more information, please contact Ruchama Szendro for the rededication committee at 401-226-9830.