Moments of creative joy kept Jason enthused about his ambitious bar mitzvah project: to build K’NEX models of 12 historic synagogues—one for each table at his bar mitzvah reception.

The elaborate undertaking required hours of online research. Jason searched for synagogues with interesting design features or fascinating histories, or those which existed during defining moments of Jewish history. His hunt led him to discover that the chain of Jewish tradition has stretched around the world. “There were synagogues in countries, cities, and towns that I never knew existed,” he says. For example, he was amazed to find that Jews had lived in Kaifeng, China, during the mid-17th century. Their elegant synagogue, which Jason chose to include in the project, borrowed design features from Chinese architecture.

With his research complete, Jason outlined plans for each model. “I had to be the architect, building manager, and builder all at the same time,” he told BABAGANEWZ. In a whirlwind of creative energy, Jason finished all 12 synagogues one month before becoming a bar mitzvah in October 2004. The magnificent centerpieces have attracted attention from museum curators around the country. Since premiering at his bar mitzvah party, the models have been displayed at New York City’s Yeshiva University Museum, the Lisa Ann Watson Children’s Discovery Museum in Miami, and various other places. “I am glad,” says Jason, “that I could help other people learn about Jewish history.”

To see a slideshow of Jason's synagogues, click here.

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