Our Founder
Rabbi Jacob J. (J.J.) Hecht
Rabbi Jacob J. (J.J.) Hecht (1923–1990) was a prominent Chabad-Lubavitch rabbi, known for his dynamic leadership, powerful oratory, and close relationship with the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson.
Born in Brooklyn, Hecht became a central figure in American Jewish life, dedicating his life to education, outreach, and community building. He founded several key institutions, including the National Committee for the Furtherance of Jewish Education (NCFJE), which focused on bringing Jewish learning and identity to unaffiliated Jews. Rabbi Hecht served as the Rebbe’s official translator for public addresses delivered in Yiddish and was instrumental in communicating the Rebbe’s messages to broader English-speaking audiences. He was also the long-time spiritual leader of Congregation Meir Simcha Hakohen in Brooklyn. Rabbi Hecht’s passion, charisma, and unwavering commitment left a lasting impact on the American Jewish landscape and the global Chabad movement. His legacy continues through his writings, students, and family.
As the East Faltbush community dwindled ( before its recent revival) Rabbi JJ Hecht continued to serve as the Yoshev Rosh of the Beth Din of East Flatbush until his passing in 1990.
After which his so Harav R Shimon Hecht assumed mantle of leadership of the Beth Din, who for more than 35 years has served this position with great humility.
Rabbi Shimon Hecht is a prominent Chabad emissary (shliach) based in Brooklyn, New York. He serves as the spiritual leader of Congregation B'nai Jacob in Park Slope, where he fosters a welcoming environment for Jews of all backgrounds to engage in Torah study, mitzvot, and community life.
In addition to his role at B'nai Jacob, Rabbi Hecht is the chaplain at Methodist Hospital and co-founded Chabad of Park Slope. He is actively involved in several key organizations, including the National Committee for the Furtherance of Jewish Education and the Rabbinical Committee of Brownstone Brooklyn.
Since 1984, he has organized the lighting of a large public menorah at Grand Army Plaza during Hanukkah, an event that has become a major community tradition. The menorah, recognized as Brooklyn’s tallest, has drawn thousands of participants and widespread attention.
Through his leadership and outreach, Rabbi Hecht continues to play a vital role in strengthening Jewish life in Brooklyn and beyond.
Harav R Shimon Hecht