By COLlive staff

A unique art project will be showing the global reach of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement through a powerful display of unity — and COLlive is helping make it happen.

A Jewish artist is creating a large-scale installation using yarmulkas collected from Chabad centers across the globe. Each yarmulka proudly bears the logo and identity of its local Chabad institution, representing the unique community it serves while contributing to a larger picture of Jewish unity.

To help bring the vision to life, COLlive is co-sponsoring the Yarmulka Challenge, a two-week campaign encouraging people to bring in their Chabad-labeled yarmulkas.

While each yarmulka carries its own logo, story, and local identity, together they will form a powerful symbol of achdus, illustrating how Chabad’s global presence is built from thousands of individual centers united by a shared mission.

All participants who bring 2 Chabad house yarmulkas to Sweet Expressions in Crown Heights will receive a $15 Gift Card for Sweet Expressions.

Shluchim, Lubavitchers, and all Jews are invited to take part and ensure that their community is represented in what organizers hope will become a one-of-a-kind tribute to the Rebbe’s global network of shlichus and the unity of the Jewish people.

A man was arrested Friday afternoon after assaulting an unsuspecting victim in Crown Heights.

The incident occurred at approximately 4:30PM near Kingston Ave and Empire Boulevard when the suspect elbowed an unsuspecting victim in the chest, causing injury. Crown Heights Shmira located him and NYPD officers detained him near Eastern Parkway, but he was released at first.

Shmira then obtained footage of the assault and tracked him to Throop Ave and Fulton Street, where officers took him into custody.

Please be aware of your surroundings. In case of an emergency, call 911 and Shmira 24/7 at 718-221-0303.

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Shmira is looking for responsible and qualified individuals who are ready to join and give back to the community. If you believe you are ready to join, please fill out the sign-up form at http://www.chshmira.org/join-us/

As schools across the country wrap up the academic year and camps prepare to open for the summer, a newly published response from the Rebbe offers a glimpse into the message he wanted emphasized at Camp Gan Israel in Detroit.

The response, appearing in print for the first time, is being published courtesy of the Igros Kodesh editorial team of Vaad Hanachos B’lashon Hakodesh, and will appear in the farbrengen booklet for Shabbos Parshas Chukas, following Gimmel Tammuz 5786.

Michigan was among the first states to receive shluchim during the Rebbe’s nesius. In 1958, Rabbi Sholom Ber and Mrs. Batsheva Shemtov arrived in Detroit as the Rebbe’s shluchim while still in the days of sheva brachos following their wedding.

One of the first institutions established in the state was Camp Gan Israel, founded in 1961. Since then, hundreds of boys and girls have attended camp there each summer. Located in “Lubavitch City,” the camp has played a central role in the chinuch of generations of Anash families and shluchim.

As preparations were underway for the summer of 5732 (1972), head counselors Feigel Stock (later Turnheim) and Rochel Mochkin (later Kaplan) wrote to the Rebbe requesting guidance.

“We are traveling to Camp Gan Israel in Detroit on Sunday, 20 Tammuz, Parshas Matos-Masei,” they wrote. “We would like to request a central theme that should be emphasized throughout the summer months.”

The Rebbe’s handwritten response, published here for the first time, read:

“כמופת הייתי לרבים…”

“Especially regarding tznius (which applies beginning from the age of three years and one day).”

As was his practice during that year, the Rebbe quoted a verse from Kapitel 71, which he was reciting at the time, and emphasized the word “larabim”—”to many.”

He then added that particular emphasis should be placed on the subject of tznius for Jewish girls, noting that according to halachah, its requirements begin from the age of three years and one day.

The Rebbe addressed this point on numerous occasions, both in writing and in his public talks. See also Likkutei Sichos, Vol. 18, p. 448, and Terumah 5741 (Shichos Kodesh 5741, vol. 2, p. 419).
To view the maaneh, click here
To download the complete booklet, click here

Photos: Tzvi Levenhartz/COLlive

This week is Parshas Shelach

Candle Lighting in Crown Heights: 8:09 PM
Shabbos ends: 9:18 PM

This week’s Shalom Zachors:
Ari and Faigy Rimler – 1266 Carroll St.
Noam Moshe and Mrs. Armani – 770 Main Shul
Shlomie and Mrs. Hecht – 825 Eastern Parkway [Between Kingston and Albany Aves]
Mendy and Mrs. Sapo – 456 Crown St 10:30 [Between Kingston and Brooklyn Aves]
Moshe Chayim Yaakov and Mrs. Wircberg – 9029 Kings Highway (Corner of East 91st St.)

Good Shabbos from the staff of COLlive.com!

Community members and bochurim gathered Thursday night at 770 Eastern Parkway to celebrate the arrival of a new Mitzvah Tank that is making its way to Eretz Yisroel.

The vehicle, Mitzvah Tank No. 22 of Chabad Mobile Centers in Eretz Yisroel, stopped outside 770 before beginning its mission on the roads of Israel. The occasion drew hundreds who came to participate in a spontaneous farbrengen and say L’chaim inside the newly outfitted tank.

Hosting the gathering was Rabbi David Nachshon, chairman of Chabad Mobile Centers and Tzivos Hashem in Eretz Yisroel, who celebrated the milestone together with those in attendance.

The new tank is the latest addition to the growing fleet of Mitzvah Tanks operating throughout Eretz Yisroel, bringing Yiddishkeit, Chassidus, and the Rebbe’s mivtzoim to cities, towns, and communities across the country.

Participants expressed hopes that the new tank will help further expand the Rebbe’s shlichus and hasten the fulfillment of the mission of preparing the world to greet Moshiach.

The gathering concluded with spirited singing and L’chaim as the new Mitzvah Tank prepared to continue its journey to Eretz Yisroel, where it will soon join the fleet already active throughout the country.

https://collive.com/wp-content/uploads/photos/2026/06/whatsapp-video-2026-06-12-at-8.35.14-am.mp4

BESHT: Hachono for Gimmul Tammuz

Shabbos at the BESHT: Rabbi Velly Slavin is a Shliach in Malvern Victoria, Australia. He will be giving this week’s Shiur on Hachono for Gimmul Tammuz.

Rabbi Heschel Greenberg has launched a new series of classes on the Rambam’s Mishneh Torah in response to the Rebbe’s call to learn at least one halacha in depth.

The Rebbe initiated a major effort to unite all Jews with the study of the entire encyclopedic work, Mishneh Torah, by learning three chapters a day and completing the entire work in less than a year. Alternatively, one can learn one chapter and complete the entire Mishneh Torah in close to three years. The Rebbe also gave a third option to study Maimonides’ companion work, Sefer Hamitzvos that parallel the Mishneh Torah.

In addition, the Rebbe requested that we learn one halacha in depth.

We recently began the 46nd cycle of Mishneh Torah which inspired Rabbi Greenberg to record brief classes on selected passages of the Mishneh Torah.

Rabbi Heschel Greenberg is a shliach of the Rebbe in Buffalo NY and the Director of the Jewish Discovery Center, and, for over 50 years, has taught thousands of classes on all aspects of Jewish knowledge.

Rabbi Greenberg has also authored dozens of works on diverse subjects including several volumes of commentary on the Mishneh Torah.

Many of Rabbi Greenberg’s classes can be accessed on his website rabbigreenberg.com.

In this powerful deep dive, we uncover one of the most elegant and profound explanations in all of Rambam’s writings. Why does the Rambam forbid a Kohen from seizing Terumah or Maaser — even with words? Why must it be taken with dignity? And how does this single characterization — that the Kohen is eating from Hashem’s table — solve one of the strongest questions Tosafot ever asked on Rashi regarding the prohibition of Tevel (untithed produce)? This is not just dry halachah. This is Rambam at his philosophical best: revealing the inner spiritual mechanics behind the mitzvah and answering a question that has bothered learners for centuries.

Musical sensations Yoni Z and Chananya Rotenberg have released an official music video for “Through It All”, released on the War on Gravity album.

Chananya Rotenberg Presents: “Through It All” – Featuring Yoni Z
From the album War on Gravity — now available everywhere
Music Credits:
Words By Chananya Rotenberg
Composed By Chananya Rotenberg, Nochum Levitan & Moshe Tischler
Background Vocals by Yoni Z
Music Arranged and Produced by Nochum Levitan

Video Credits:
AI Video Production by Shai Barak
Storyboard and script by Chananya Rotenberg and Yoni Z

This past Sunday, the Vaad Talmidei Hatmimim, in partnership with Mesivta of Coral Springs and Mesivta Lubavitch of Miami, organized a special Yom Hachana program in preparation for Gimmel Tammuz. Hosted at Chabad of Weston, the event brought together Bochurim from both Yeshivos for an evening of learning, inspiration, and achdus.

The program opened with a seder sichos, as Bochurim from both Yeshivos learned the Sicha of Yud-Beis Tammuz 5711 together. It was a beautiful sight to see Bochurim from different Yeshivos sitting side by side, learning, discussing, and preparing together for Gimmel Tammuz.

A highlight of the program was a lively crossfire featuring Rabbi Yossi Denburg, Shliach to Coral Springs and Dean of Lubavitch Hebrew Academy; Rabbi Chay Amar, Shliach to Golden Beach and well-known lecturer; and Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, Yeshiva Gedolah of Miami. The discussion was moderated by Rabbi Menachem Rappaport, Maggid Shiur and Rosh Yeshiva of Mesivta Lubavitch Miami.

Drawing from questions submitted by the Bochurim themselves, the panel addressed a wide range of topics relevant to today’s Bochur. Much of the discussion focused on Hiskashrus in our generation, practical avodah, and meaningful preparation for Gimmel Tammuz. The Bochurim were fully engaged throughout, listening attentively and taking part in the discussion.

Following the program, participants gathered for a grand banquet, which opened with Tehillim and a specially prepared video presentation. Rabbi Yisroel Spalter, Shliach to Weston and host of the event, delivered keynote remarks, encouraging the Bochurim to take the inspiration of the evening and translate it into meaningful action.

The energy in the room soon gave way to spirited and spontaneous dancing, as Bochurim from both Yeshivos joined together in a powerful display of achdus and simcha.

The evening concluded with a farbrengen led by Rabbi Yosef Raichik, Shliach of the Rebbe to Boynton Beach. Lasting late into the night, the farbrengen left a strong impression on the participants, who listened to heartfelt words of inspiration and guidance as they prepared for Gimmel Tammuz.

A special teshurah, published in honor of the event, was distributed to all participants.

Bochurim left uplifted and energized, carrying with them the inspiration of an evening that combined Torah, farbrengen, achdus, and meaningful preparation for the auspicious days ahead.
Special thank you to Rabbi Motti Schurdur, Rabbi Yosef Eizekovitch and Rabbi Moshe Denburg, Rabbi Yisroel Spalter, Meir Avtzon, and Zander Labkowski for making this beautiful event possible.

By COLlive reporter

A new proposal circulating in Israel’s Chabad communities is drawing attention after a group of shadchanim called for introducing compensation for dates that do not lead to engagement.

Outlined in a letter dated Sivan 5786, the proposal comes amid broader discussions surrounding changes in the shidduch landscape and efforts to create what organizers describe as a more balanced and sustainable system.

Under the proposal, traditional shadchanus payments would remain unchanged when a match results in engagement. However, for meetings that do not lead to a shidduch, each family/single would pay up to 100 shekels per date.

The letter says the recommendation follows consultations with multiple shadchanim and points to concerns over increasingly lengthy dating processes and the growing amount of time invested in arranging and managing meetings.

Supporters of the model argue that shadchanim often devote considerable effort to coordinating dates, guiding families, and maintaining communication throughout the process, even when no engagement follows.

At the same time, the proposal is expected to generate debate among families and community members over whether introducing a pay-per-date structure could add financial pressure to an already demanding shidduch process.

The initiative concludes with a call for continued partnership and responsibility in helping build Jewish homes across Israel.

Whether the proposal gains broader adoption remains to be seen, but it has already sparked discussion about whether compensation models in the shidduch world should evolve alongside changing dating patterns.

After a successful launch last year, the Merkos Chinuch Office is announcing the return of the Global Chinuch Pitch, giving mechanchim, principals, and school administrators the opportunity to share practical, impactful ideas that can strengthen Chinuch in schools and classrooms around the world.

Last year’s Chinuch Pitch drew ideas from mechanchim on the front lines of Chinuch, giving them a platform to present their vision, offer solutions to real challenges, and help shape the future of Chassidishe Chinuch.

This year, the Chinuch Pitch is back, building on last year’s momentum and giving even more mechanchim the chance to take part.

“The people in Chinuch every day understand the needs of the next generation best,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, General Chairman of Merkos’s Chinuch Office. “The Chinuch Pitch gives mechanchim a platform for the ideas they’re already developing to meet real challenges in the classroom, and helps bring those tried and tested solutions to children around the world.”

The Chinuch Pitch invites mechanchim to submit practical ideas that address real needs in Chinuch, whether in curriculum, classroom management, student engagement, school systems, or another area that can benefit mechanchim, students, and schools.

The winning idea will receive up to $18,000 in funding support from the Chinuch Office, helping turn a strong idea into real classroom impact.

Submissions are open to the public and close on ו׳ תמוז / June 21, 2026. After submissions close, a panel of judges will review all pitches and vote by כ׳ תמוז / July 5, selecting the top ten ideas by majority vote.

Public voting will take place on כ״ב–כ״ג תמוז / July 7–8, giving the wider community a say in which ideas advance to the finalist stage. Three finalists will then present their pitches live at the closing session of the Kinus HaMechanchim, taking place י״ד–ט״ו אב / July 28–29, where the final vote and winner will be decided.

All participants will be asked to agree to the official terms and conditions when submitting, and finalists should be available to present live at the Kinus.

Mechanchim, principals, and administrators with an idea that can strengthen Chinuch are encouraged to submit their pitch at kinus.chinuchoffice.org/pitch.

Yale University Professor Paul Franks Interviews Rabbi Yehuda Krinsky

On January 10th 2023 a select group of Internationally acclaimed Academics, Journalists, Authors, Business leaders and Ivy league students gathered in New York City for a historic evening.

Yale University Professor Paul Franks interviewed Rabbi Chaim Yehudah (Yudel) Krinsky, the personal secretary of the late Lubavitcher Rebbe OBM and Secretary General of the Lubavitch movement.

The event was sponsored by the Levitin Family in commemoration of the 12th Yahrzeit of their grandmother Miriam Weiss OBM.

Gutnick Academy is honored to release the entire interview in honor of Gimel Tamuz, the upcoming 32nd Anniversary of the physical passing of the Rebbe.

Weekly Story: An Honest Discussion 

by Rabbi Sholom DovBer Avtzon 

As this Shabbos is Shabbos Mevorchim chodesh Tammuz, and every farbrengen is going to be centered on the Rebbe and how to strengthen not merely our connection or hiskashrus to him, but our commitment to carry through on his ideals, and fulfill his requests, I decided to write the following article, before Gimmel Tammuz. 

My hope is that it will clarify a misconception that many of our youth (meaning those in their thirties and younger), and perhaps those who are older as well.

During numerous farbrengens and conversations with younger chassidim I am asked whether I say Yechi, and the discussion about the Rebbe being Moshiach.

After listening to numerous people, I came to the realization that to a large extent, this question is based on the following understanding or perhaps misunderstanding.

In the first thirty some years of the Rebbe’s nesius, while there was this talk, it was not in public. Meaning, we never said Melech Hamoshiach during one of the Rebbe’s farbrengens. Therefore, the logic continues that it was said and gained traction after the petira of the Rebbetzin and especially after the Rebbe suffered his first stroke four years later, in 5752.

So if it began during those difficult times, its purpose was to give us strength and hope during those difficult times. So although those difficulties have not subsided and the world situation has not improved since then, nevertheless, that doesn’t change the fact that it is more of a motivational saying than an actual factual saying.

When I rephrased their question as such, many of them nod in agreement saying that is basically it.

So I reply, that perhaps is how you were raised or perceive it, but that is not how I was raised, and it is definitely not the way to look at it.

Seeing their quizzical expression, as I’d say, how are are we supposed to look at it? I explain, my parents arrived in Detroit in 5714 (1954). On Shabbos afternoons my father would go to the numerous shuls, and review some Chassidus around Mincha time. He also said publicly that people should know that there is a Rebbe in the world, who is a Navi and is happy to help any and every Jew in their time of need.

Furthermore, my father would often repeat one of his favorite stories of why there were 3 generations of marriages between Beis HaRav and the descendants of the Tzaddik HaRav Menachem Nochum of Chernobyl, as the Maggid said I know that Moshiach will be a descendant of one of my talmidim, but I don’t know if it will be from my oldest talmid, HaRav Menachem Nochum, or my youngest talmid, HaRav Zalmanyu.

The Rebbetzin is a descendant of these three marriages and by extension that means that the Rebbe is Moshiach.

Yes, the truth be said, that this did not sit well with some misnagdim, nor did it sit well with a Lubavitcher who settled there a few years later.

The truth be said, it bothered him.so much, that when Reb Moshe Dubinsky came to Detroit to collect Maamid (money that is given as support for the Rebbe’s personal expenses), he said to Reb Moshe, you can collect maamid, but when you give the money and list of the donors to the Rebbe, please tell him that Meir Avtzon [Gasthalter] is saying in all the shuls that the Rebbe is Moshiach, and that comment interferes with the work of the representative of Mekos Linyonei chinuch. Therefore, I am requesting that the Rebbe instructs Meir Avtzon to stop saying this in all the shuls.

The Rebbe responded, what should I do, as he is saying it with an emes (and sincerity).

So you see that believing that the Rebbe is Moshiach is not a new phenomenon that began as some like to say out of desperation, but rather it is rooted in our culture for generations. 

There was this same conversation in the ten years that the Frierdiker Rebbe was in America, of whether he was Moshiach. And our Rebbe was very strong about it that it is a correct statement.

The question becomes, when, where and how should this be said in public, or to rephrase it what is the appropriate way to discuss this in public?

That I discuss in great length in my book A Day To Recall, A Day To Remember. 

A Taste of Chassidus 

שלח לך אנשים

Likkutei Torah Bamidbar p. 36C

We have to understand, the twelve spies were handpicked by Moshe, as they obviously were outstanding individuals who understood what their mission was, so why did they feel so strongly against entering Eretz Yisroel?

Their opposition did not begin after they saw the land in detail, but it began even before they went. So what was their reasoning or thought process to oppose entering Eretz Yisroel from the get-go?

In many maamorim it is explained that they as leaders of their Shevatim recognized the strong possibility, that once the Jews will enter Eretz Yisroel and have the responsibility of working their fields to grow crops, they won’t have the time to learn Torah and might also neglect fulfilling some mitzvos. So they had mesiras nefesh to prevent the Jews from going against Hashem.

But here in this maamar, the Alter Rebbe is explaining it in a different way, not that they may sin, but because they thought this is the proper way to serve Hashem.

In order to understand that, we have to understand the difference between the wilderness and Eretz Yisroel. 

The Torah was given to us in the wilderness, however,  the ability to fulfill mitzvos began mainly when the Jewish people entered Eretz Yisroel. 

So the focal point here is what is the significance of entering Eretz Yisroel,as only then we have the responsibility and that demonstrates that we were then given the ability to fulfill mitzvos.

The Alter Rebbe explains we first have to understand why or how a person receives their sustenance from food which are elements lower than the person. Normally the one who is higher is the one that nourishes the one that is lower than it, and here seemingly the lower level is nourishing what is higher than it.

But as the Arizal explains, the source in the food comes from the supernal world of Tohu, which is higher than the person who is in the supernal world of Tikun. So here too the person has to work with the earth to bring out its source which is higher than the person themself.

The way Hashem created the world is that He concealed His greatness, in order that we creations do not become overwhelmed and nullified from its enormity.  So yes, while our responsibility is to bring the shechina into this world, they felt that we should only reveal a higher amount of G-dliness that is concealed or limited.

However, the ten spies, being that they themselves were on an exalted level, and understood what tremendous revelation of G-dliness will occur through the fulfillment of mitzvos they felt that it will overwhelm everyone, to the extent that the world would become nullified. in other words this level of G-dliness that will become revealed is unlimited. Therefore, they argued that since Hashem wants us to exist, the only way we can continue to exist and serve Hashem at the same time is if we continue to focus on learning His Torah. 

[The Alter Rebbe explains that the Hebrew word for wilderness is  Midbar, which is very similar to the word Dibbur, which means speech. Therefore their argument was, let us remain connected and serve Hashem with Dibbur (speech), and not enter Eretz Yisroel where we will be obligated to serve Hashem through action, which would reveal a level of G-dliness that will nullify us.]

Their mistake was that they misunderstood how the process of a seed develops into a plant. Yes, it shrivels up and seemingly becomes nullified, but that arouses the power of growth that is in the earth and develops into the fruit or vegetation.

The same thing is concerning entering Eretz Yisroel, which the Torah refers to the land of milk and honey, which is a reference to nullifying your desire and refraining from acting against Hashem’s will, and then by doing His positive commandments, becoming receptacles to receive this higher level of G-dliness and not being overwhelmed and nullified.

Or in other words, they were on the level of Dibbur, (speech) and couldn’t lower themselves to the level of Maaseh (action), which would be  a necessity for those who entered Eretz Yisroel, and, therefore, they said we are unable to enter it.

Rabbi Avtzon is a veteran mechanech and the author of numerous books on the Rebbeiim and their chassidim. He is available to farbreng in your community and can be contacted at [email protected].

When the Rebbe Mentioned “Siri” by a Farbrengen

This Beis Tammuz marks 85 years since…    …The Rebbe’s first Farbrengen in 770 upon arriving in America. With 85 being the gematria of פה (mouth, speech), surely this is a perfect time to tune in deeply to the Rebbe’s Farbrengens, which is the Rebbe’s primary way of speaking to all of us.

The Rebbe held 38 farbrengens on Shabbos Parshas Shelach (see image below for a full list). The sichos from these farbrengens span over 1,000 pages in the Yiddish Hanochos (transcripts) in Sichos Kodesh, and around 120 pages in the 12 English Hanochos published by Sichos in English.

Each farbrengen is a priceless treasure. It was the highlight of the week for those fortunate to be present when the Rebbe farbrenged. Nowadays, these farbrengens are preserved in thousands of pages, waiting to be relived by every chossid.

To get a taste of these farbrengens (Some selected highlights appear below), visit https://taste.study/shelachto explore this week’s “Taste”. You can download and print it for Shabbos, with curated suggestions for which farbrengens to learn, along with a qr code to access each one.

BONUS: In honor of 28 Sivan, there is a special list at the end of the booklet, which contains the english words the Rebbe said at the Shelach Farbrengens. Words like “air condition”, “brunch”, “siri” and much more! 

To receive the “Taste” each week, subscribe for free at https://taste.study/subscribe

May we merit to once again experience a farbrengen with the Rebbe—now!

—

Selected excerpts from this edition of the “Taste”

Shabbos Parshas Shelach 5740

In order to succeed in our involvement in the world and with other Jews, spying is necessary. In order to influence someone, it is necessary to appreciate his level, to understand what his position is so that Torah can be presented in a form that relates to him. To cite a gross example, if a child only understands English and someone should try to educate him in Hebrew, arguing that it is the holy tongue, the language in which the Heavens and the Earth were created, he would not succeed. Rather, the child must be taught in English. In this manner, one will be successful, fulfilling the command, “And you shall teach your children the students.”

Shabbos Parshas Shelach 5742

In the light of the above, we see that Shabbos Mevorchim Tammuz is the proper time for good resolutions in spreading Judaism and Chassidus in a manner transcending limitations as it is brought down within limits. Obviously, the resolutions alone are not enough, and the main thing is to translate them into action.

There is a special distinction in all of the above from the date on which Rosh Chodesh falls out this year Monday (and Tuesday). This means that there is an intervening day between Shabbos and Rosh Chodesh Tammuz. When there are no intervening days, the preparations to Rosh Chodesh on Erev Rosh Chodesh (which is Shabbos) are in the manner of service on Shabbos “Shabbos is sanctified of itself.” But when there is an intervening day between Shabbos Mevorchim and Rosh Chodesh, the preparations to Rosh Chodesh made on Erev Rosh Chodesh (which is now weekday) are through man’s efforts. And a person prefers one measure of his own to nine measures of his friend (i.e. acquired through no personal effort).
May it be G-d’s will that each Jew utilize the opportunity of Shabbos Mevorchim Tammuz to make good resolutions concerning all the above, and to translate them into deed.

Weekly Dvar Torah: Eighty-Five Years Strong — And Growing

This Shabbos, the 28th of Sivan, Chassidim around the world will celebrate eighty-five years since the Rebbe and the Rebbetzin arrived on American shores after escaping Nazi Europe.

If not for this day, where would I be today?

Where would Chassidim be today?

Where would world Jewry be today?

We all understand why Chof-Ches Sivan is precious to us. The Rebbe and Rebbetzin survived while much of their family did not. The Rebbe was almost the lone survivor of his immediate family from the devastating combination of Hitler and Stalin. His brother, relatives, uncles, aunts and grandparents perished in the Holocaust, and his holy father passed away in exile after being persecuted by Stalin.

Their survival alone is reason enough for celebration.

But to say that world Jewry depended on this day? Isn’t that a bit of a stretch?

I don’t think so.

There is another question as well.

The Rebbe was an extraordinarily private person. Very little of his personal life was ever discussed publicly. Yet in 1986, forty-five years after arriving in America, the Rebbe himself established Chof-Ches Sivan as a day to be marked and celebrated. Not only that, the Rebbe repeatedly referred to the arrival of “me and my wife.”

Why?

Why share such a personal chapter of his life with us?

Five years later, on the fiftieth anniversary of his arrival, a group of young bochurim prepared a booklet describing the history and significance of Chof-Ches Sivan. The Rebbe not only approved it, but instructed that ten thousand copies be printed. Then he stood for hours distributing a copy personally to every man, woman, and child who passed before him.

The message seems clear.

The Rebbe did not view Chof-Ches Sivan as a private anniversary.

He viewed it as our anniversary.

A family celebrates together.

By inviting Chassidim into this deeply personal chapter of his life, the Rebbe was telling us that we are family.

The Baal Shem Tov teaches that everything happens by Divine Providence. Every person is sent exactly where he needs to be in order to fulfill the mission for which his soul descended into this world.

To understand why Chof-Ches Sivan matters so much, we need to go back a few years.

When the Previous Rebbe visited America in 1929, one of the reasons for his trip was to determine whether America could become a home for Torah Judaism after he had been expelled from Soviet Russia. His conclusion was clear: America was not yet ready.

Keeping Shabbos could cost a person his job. Kosher food was scarce. Jewish education was weak. Assimilation was rampant. It was famously said that the streets of America were treif.

Then came Hitler.

When Hitler uprooted European Jewry from its ancient centers, Heaven was sending a message. The time had come to transplant Torah and Yiddishkeit to the Western Hemisphere and eventually to every corner of the globe.

When the Previous Rebbe arrived in America a decade later, he made his famous declaration: “America is not different.” America was no different than Europe when it came to Torah and Yiddishkeit.

Fifteen months later, on Chof-Ches Sivan 5701, the Rebbe arrived in America, and the Previous Rebbe entrusted him with transforming that vision into reality.

Eighty-five years later, the results speak for themselves. Thousands of institutions, thousands of Shluchim and Shluchos, and Jewish life flourishing in places where nobody could have imagined it. Torah is being taught, Tefillin are being wrapped, and Shabbos candles are being lit in every corner of the globe.

But that only brings us back to the question.

How did this happen?

What was the secret?

What quality stood at the heart of everything the Rebbe accomplished?

Perhaps the answer lies in this week’s Parshah, which this year is read on Chof-Ches Sivan itself.

The Rebbe once explained a Rashi on the verse describing the punishment of the spies. Rashi says that the spies “organized the people against him” — against Moshe.

The Rebbe asked a simple question. The verse already tells us that the spies spoke against Hashem, against the Land of Israel, and against the entire mission of entering the Land. Why does Rashi feel the need to insert Moshe into the picture? What is bothering the five-year-old child learning Chumash?

The Rebbe explained that the child notices something very obvious. When Hashem wanted to destroy the Jewish people, Moshe prayed and saved six hundred thousand Jews. If Moshe’s prayers could save six hundred thousand Jews, why couldn’t they save another ten?

Rashi therefore emphasizes that the spies had turned the nation against Moshe himself. Since their sin was directed against him personally, Moshe could not become their defender. This is based on the well-known halachic principle of אין קטיגור נעשה סניגור — a prosecutor cannot become a defender. Since the spies had rebelled against Moshe, he could no longer serve as their advocate.

The Rebbe then added a practical lesson. Jewish leaders dedicate themselves to bringing blessings to all Jews. Except for those who oppose them.

Years later, Rabbi Leibel Schapiro prepared this sicha for publication. When the edited transcript came back from the Rebbe, something was strange. The paragraph ended in the middle of the lesson. The sicha stated that Jewish leaders bring blessings to all the Jews of their generation, but the concluding comparison to Moshe not being able to save those who oppose him was missing.

Where did it go?

When inquiries were made, it turned out that when the Rebbe reviewed the transcript, he drew a large X through the final paragraph.

The Rebbe was asked: wasn’t this exactly what the Rebbe had said?

His response was astonishing:

“This is completely contrary to Chassidic thinking. Burn this paper and never repeat it.”

Think about what happened here.

The Rebbe was not rejecting the explanation in Rashi. He was not disputing the halachic principle of ein kateigor naaseh saneigor. The logic remained sound.

Yet when those words were about to become a permanent lesson in print, the Rebbe could not allow them to stand.

Moshe Rabbeinu could not defend those whose sin was directed against him. But a Chassidic leader cannot become a prosecutor against another Jew.

Wow.

Perhaps this is the secret of Chof-Ches Sivan.

People often point to the Rebbe’s brilliance, scholarship, vision, and leadership. All of that is true. But none of those qualities alone explain eighty-five years of uninterrupted growth.

The Rebbe saw a Jew where others saw a problem. He saw a soul where others saw disagreement. He saw potential where others saw failure.

Most importantly, the Rebbe never gave up on a Jew.

Not because the Jew agreed with him.

Not because the Jew was observant.

Not because the Jew deserved it.

But because the Jew was a Jew.

Over the years, the Rebbe taught us repeatedly that Ahavas Yisroel is the preparation for Moshiach. When Moshe redeemed the Jews from Egypt, many never made it out. When Moshiach comes, no Jew will be left behind. Every Jew will matter. Every Jew will be gathered. Every Jew will come home.

Perhaps that is why Chassidus is the preparation for Geulah. It teaches us not merely how to think differently, but how to look at another Jew differently.

And perhaps that is the deepest message of Chof-Ches Sivan.

The Rebbe invited us into one of the most personal chapters of his life. He wanted us to celebrate it together with him. He wanted us to understand that his story was our story.

And perhaps the greatest gift he gave us was not only the thousands of institutions, the thousands of Shluchim, and the millions of Jews who have been touched by Torah.

Perhaps the greatest gift was teaching us how to look at another Jew.

With patience.

With hope.

With faith.

With love.

A love that refused to give up on a Jew.

A love that crossed oceans.

A love that reached every continent.

A love that continues to change the Jewish world eighty-five years later.

L’chaim, brothers and sisters.
It is our holiday.

Have a Shabbos of Love and Freedom,
Gut Shabbos and Gut Yom Tov,

Rabbi Yosef Katzman

Gimmel Tammuz – Thursday, June 18 from 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm, women will gather at Chabad of the Five Towns to connect through stories and niggunim, which will nourish both body and soul.

Our keynote speaker, Rivky Slonim, will weave together the threads of learning and life, helping us explore what it means to carry the Rebbe’s vision into our homes, communities, and daily lives.

The Rebbe often spoke about the extraordinary role of Jewish women. He saw women not as supporting players in Jewish life, but as leaders, builders, educators, and spiritual anchors. He believed that women possess a unique ability to influence their homes, families, communities, and ultimately the world itself.

For many, Gimmel Tammuz is a day of reflection.

It is a day when we think about what it means to remain connected to the Rebbe’s teachings and mission. While the calendar marks a date, the Rebbe’s influence cannot be measured by dates alone. His words continue to guide, challenge, and inspire countless people around the world.

Attending a women’s gathering on Gimmel Tammuz is an opportunity to pause amid the demands of daily life and reconnect with what truly matters. It is a chance to hear new perspectives, strengthen old friendships, form new ones, and leave with renewed clarity and purpose.

Most importantly, it is a reminder that the Rebbe’s mission continues through each of us. The Rebbe’s vision was never meant to remain on a bookshelf. It was meant to be lived.

We look forward to welcoming you at this unique event.
The Program Committee.

To register: chabadfivetowns.com/gtevent
For information: Joannie Tansky 514-550-4996

Fireworks Injure Crown Heights Youth as Shomrim Warns of Dangerous Trend

by CrownHeights.info

As summer approaches and fireworks become increasingly common in neighborhood parks and streets, Crown Heights residents are being urged to take the dangers seriously after another child was injured in a fireworks-related incident.

According to Crown Heights Shomrim, a child suffered burns to the face this week after being struck by a firework in Lefferts Park. The incident is part of what community members describe as a growing problem involving groups of young teens lighting and throwing fireworks near other children.

“Unfortunately, Shomrim continues to receive calls about groups of Yeshivah boys lighting fireworks around other children,” the organization said in a public warning following the incident.

Lefferts Park has long been a popular gathering place for neighborhood families during the warmer months, but parents say the recent increase in fireworks activity has left many children feeling unsafe.

Community members expressed concern that the behavior could easily lead to far more serious injuries if it continues unchecked.

National safety statistics highlight those concerns. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that approximately 14,700 people were injured by fireworks in 2024, with burns accounting for the largest category of injuries. The head, face, and ears are among the most commonly injured areas. Young people are particularly vulnerable, with children and teens accounting for a significant portion of fireworks-related emergency room visits.

Medical experts warn that even seemingly harmless fireworks can cause devastating injuries. Burns, eye injuries, hearing damage, and permanent scarring can occur not only to those lighting fireworks, but also to innocent bystanders standing nearby. Children under 15 account for roughly one-quarter of all fireworks-related injuries nationwide.

Recent incidents across New York have demonstrated how quickly fireworks can turn dangerous. Last month in Brooklyn’s Bath Beach neighborhood, a fireworks explosion left an 18-year-old with severe hand injuries and facial burns, while two others were also hospitalized with burns.

Shomrim is calling on parents to speak with their children about the dangers of fireworks and to closely monitor where they are spending their time.

“Parents: please know where your children are and what they are doing,” Shomrim urged. “Lefferts Park should be a place for children to play and enjoy themselves safely—not a place where they have to dodge fireworks.”

Community leaders hope that increased parental involvement and awareness will prevent further injuries before a tragedy occurs.

Residents who witness dangerous activity involving fireworks are encouraged to contact Shomrim or the appropriate authorities immediately.

There are Yidden who leave this world surrounded by family, memories, and a matzeivah that quietly tells their story.

And then there are those who are left behind… with no visitors, no voice, and sometimes—no matzeivah at all.

For nearly 25 years, one such Yid rested in silence.

A Story That Wouldn’t Let Go

It began with a simple conversation with Rabbi Aaron Margolin of the Chabad House of Virginia.

I had reached out regarding my Tehillim service—reciting the entire Sefer Tehillim at a kever or at the Ohel, l’iluy nishmas, for those seeking yeshuos for themselves and their loved ones.

During that conversation, the topic shifted.

I shared with him the other side of my work—the quiet, difficult world of Chesed Shel Emes, where forgotten kevarim are restored and where I try to bring dignity back to those who have no one left to speak for them.

I told him I had recently raised funds for a matzeivah for a niftar who had passed only two years earlier, and that I was already working on another restoration project. Over time, I have been zocheh to restore more than 300 kevarim, each one carrying its own silent story.

Then Rabbi Margolin said something that stopped me.

He told me that nearly 25 years ago, he had conducted a levayah for a Yid—but to this day, there was still no matzeivah.

No marker. No name on stone. Just silence.

Something about that didn’t let me move on.

### A Name That Was Almost Lost

At first, it seemed nearly impossible.

There was no clear record of the Jewish name. I contacted Chabad contacts, Chevra Kadisha organizations, and Shomrei Hadas. Week after week, one answer led to another dead end.

My Rav and Mashpia reminded me how important it is for a matzeivah to carry the proper Jewish name. That became my focus: not just to place a stone, but to restore identity.

Slowly, through persistence and Hashem’s help, the name finally surfaced.

After almost 25 years, a name was restored to a kever that had none:

ירמיהו יעקב בן יוסף

Today, He Has a Matzeivah

On Chof Sivan, the matzeivah was finally installed.

A Yid who had lain forgotten for decades now has a place that speaks his name.

A stone. A marker. A quiet dignity returned.

Why This Matters

In the world of Chesed Shel Emes, there is no audience. No recognition. No expectation of return.

Only the mitzvah itself.

Every kever restored is a statement:

This Yid is not forgotten.

Every matzeivah placed is a whisper:

You mattered.

A Personal Zechus

Whenever I go to the Ohel or to kivrei tzaddikim, I bring pictures of the kevarim I have been zocheh to restore. I daven there on behalf of those who ask for yeshuos, using each act of Chesed Shel Emes as a zechus.

I would like to thank Shimon Goldman from the Chevra Kadisha for installing this matzeivah. His work brings dignity to those who can no longer ask for it themselves.

Help Continue This Chesed Shel Emes

So far, I have been involved in restoring over 350 kevarim, with a goal of reaching 400 matzeivos by Gimmel Tammuz, iy”H.

But this work cannot continue alone.

Each kever restored requires care, time, and resources. Each matzeivah is another Yid being brought back into remembrance.

Current Projects

Matzeivah installation: $1,500

Restoration project (47 kevarim on Yud-Gimmel Iyar): $4,500

Every contribution directly helps bring dignity to a niftar who has no one else.

### Tehillim Service – L’iluy Nishmas & Yeshuos

I also offer to recite the entire Sefer Tehillim at a kever in the same bais hachaim as the Ohel for $150, for a yahrtzeit, refuah sheleimah, shidduch, parnassah, or other personal needs.

I would go to any kever worldwide.

To Participate in This Mitzvah

Zechusim are not measured in size—but in sincerity.

Every donation helps restore a name, a kever, and a dignity that should never be lost.

PLEASE DONATE

Levi Piekarski

For donation purposes only

Zelle: [email protected]

Cash App: 516-474-5846

If that does not work, please use:

Cash App: [email protected]

PayPal & Venmo: 516.474.5846

For credit card donations, please call me: 516-474-5846

After six weeks of immersing themselves in the intensive Moshiach Chidon curriculum, Mesivta Bochurim from around the world were put to the test, successfully concluding this major phase of the Chidon initiative.

Last week, thousands of Bochurim worldwide sat for the Grand Final. Following weeks of absolute dedication to learning the Moshiach Chidon material, a record-breaking number of Mesivta Bochurim took the comprehensive exam, demonstrating incredible mastery and reaching new heights in their learning.

The excitement is far from over as all eyes now turn to the highly anticipated Grand Moshiach Chidon Banquet, scheduled for Thursday night, Gimmel Tammuz. The Banquet not only celebrates the remarkable achievements of this year’s participants but also marks the expansion of an ongoing revolution.

As the Rebbe has taught us repeatedly, learning and mastering Inyonei Geulah U’Moshiach is the direct path to opening our eyes to the Geulah. This knowledge empowers the Bochurim to actively influence their surroundings and communities, inspiring everyone to view the world through “Geulah lenses” and truly live a Moshiach lifestyle.

To ensure that Anash, Shluchim, and families worldwide can share in this momentous occasion, the entire event will be live-streamed directly here on our website. Tune in to watch, celebrate the Bochurim’s success, and get inspired to elevate your own learning of the Rebbe’s Torah to a whole new level!

This year’s Moshiach Chidon brought together Bochurim from a remarkably diverse range of Lubavitch Mesivtas. Though hailing from different corners of the globe, these Bochurim stood completely united by a singular, powerful goal: to deepen their understanding of Inyonei Geulah u’Moshiach, and through that, bring the Geulah to reality.

With this year’s historic turnout setting a new bar for the Chidon, we are confident in the Bochurim’s continued commitment and drive. We eagerly look forward to seeing them accomplish the ultimate goal of this entire initiative: Learn Moshiach, Live Moshiach, and BRING MOSHIACH!

85 Years Later: Explore the Building That Changed a Hemisphere 

This Shabbos, 28 Sivan, marks 85 years since the Rebbe and Rebbetzin’s arrival on American shores in 1941, after their rescue from war-torn Europe.

From a modest building at 770 Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn, the Rebbe would go on to transform not only American Jewry but the entire Northern Hemisphere. What was once considered a spiritual desert became the launching point for thousands of shluchim, tens of thousands of institutions, and a renewed sense of Jewish pride and purpose worldwide.

In honor of this milestone, the Moshiach Office at Merkos 302, is encouraging families, educators, shluchim, and communities to experience 770 more deeply through its immersive, self-guided 3D tour.

“On 28 Sivan, we reflect on a journey that began with the Rebbe’s arrival in America and continues through every shliach, every Chabad House, and every Jewish life impacted since,” says Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Executive Director of Merkos 302. “This tour helps people connect with the source of that mission and understand the significance of the place from which it spread across the world.”

While the platform originally launched as part of The Mikdash Movement educational initiative, its message feels particularly timely on 28 Sivan.

Available at www.tutaltz.com/770, the experience offers a detailed digital walkthrough of 770 that combines cutting-edge technology with historical context, stories, photos, videos, and educational content.

“Eighty-five years ago, the Rebbe and Rebbetzin arrived in America and began a transformation whose effects are still unfolding today,” said Rabbi Shlomie Naparstek, Director of the Moshiach Office at Merkos 302. “While many people know 770, some even very intimately, this experience imparts how the Rebbe himself saw 770.”

Users can explore the Rebbe’s room, the main shul, the upstairs library, and numerous other locations throughout the building. Interactive breakout experiences allow visitors to see how famous moments unfolded, including Sunday Dollars, Kos Shel Bracha distributions, children’s rallies, Lag BaOmer parades, and other historic events.

The experience includes:

• A fully immersive self-guided 3D walkthrough of 770
• Photos and videos of the Rebbe throughout the experience
• Educational insights about key locations
• Breakout visual recreations of significant events and setups
• Areas generally inaccessible to the public
• Content suitable for classrooms, Chabad Houses, and families

To complement the digital experience, visitors can also access an expanded guided video tour hosted by entertainer Mendy Pellin. The tour includes stories, footage, and videos of the Rebbe throughout the experience.

The project was designed by Mendel Lewis of BeisHamikdosh.com, who helped translate the physical space into a detailed digital environment.

“770 isn’t just a building people visit,” Lewis explained. “It’s a place people learn from. We wanted to create something that allows anyone, anywhere in the world, to experience it in an educational way.”

The tour was originally created as a supplement to The Mikdash Movement, Tut Altz Kids’ adaptation of the Rebbe’s famous sicha Beis Rabbeinu Shebibavel, which explores the unique role of 770 during Golus and its connection to the coming Geulah.

As communities mark 85 years since the Rebbe and Rebbetzin’s arrival, the tour offers a unique opportunity to revisit the place that served as the headquarters of that historic transformation.

This summer, the Moshiach office will be launching two new tours! Look out for details coming soon!

Experience the 3D 770 tour for just $7.70, watch the guided video, and read about the Mikdash Movement here: https://www.tutaltz.com/770

Picture of the Day

Following the Living Legacy conference in Washington D.C. this week, a delegation of Chabad representatives was invited to meet with Vice President JD Vance at the White House. Rabbi Levi Shemtov of American Friends of Lubavitch briefed the Vice President on the enduring legacy of the Rebbe, and Rabbi Avi Weinstein, COO of Chabad on Campus International, briefed him on the work of the Chabad on Campus network of Rabbis and Rebbetzins supporting Jewish students across hundreds of campuses worldwide.

Religious instruction of our youth has always been a priority. But “Jewish literacy” involves far more than rote or academic knowledge. The Avner Institute presents the Rebbe’s gentle encouragement to a couple involved in education and outreach, stressing pride in our heritage, high moral conduct, and communal responsibility – all of which must start small, implanted within the child who will listen, obey, and reap timeless lessons from our Sages.

In loving memory of Hadassah Lebovic A”h

“Planting of a seed”

B”H
18 Shevat 5712
Brooklyn, NY

Mr. and Mrs. Philip Newman
21 Supple Road
Roxbury, MA

Greetings and Blessing:

I was pleased to hear of you through Rabbi Simpson. I was especially gratified to hear of the care and devotion you are giving to the upbringing and yeshiva education of your children, irrespective of difficulties.

The proper upbringing of Jewish children has always been the greatest concern of Jewish parents. Nowadays, after the terrible upheavals in the world and the perplexities besetting the youth, with harmful influences from outside, it is a vital necessity to give the children the proper Jewish education, and no sacrifices can be too great.

Special care must be taken with regard to young children. For education is like the planting of a seed. The slightest defect in the seed, the like of which in the grown tree would be of little consequence, assumes major proportions in the care of the seed, to the extent of crippling the tree that is to grow from it.

May the Al-mighty give you lots of nachas [joy], Yiddishe nachas, from your children, and amply reward you for the sacrifices you make to give them a Torah-true education.

With blessing,

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“From darkness to light and triumph”

By the Grace of G-d
19 Adar 5721
Brooklyn, NY

Mr. & Mrs. —
21 Supple Rd.
Roxbury, MA

Greeting and Blessing:

It was very gratifying to me to hear about your good activities in your work for chinuch al taharas ha-kodesh [education on holy purity]. I hope and pray that you will continue to carry on your good work with an ever-growing measure of success, and in good health and contentment. Your accomplishments in the past will surely stimulate you to increased efforts in the future and serve as an inspiring example to others.

Needless to say, the mitzvah of ahavas Yisroel [loving your fellow Jew], especially as it is expounded in Chassidus, is one of the most basic foundations of our Jewish way of life. It is known that the Ba’al Shem Tov said that G-d’s love for each and every Jew is infinitely greater than the love of parents for their one and only child born to them in their old age, and it is the privilege and duty of every Jew to do everything possible to bring G-d’s children closer to their Father in Heaven, and never give anyone up as lost.

Having just celebrated the happy Festival of Purim, I trust that it has brought a new measure of inspiration and joy to you and to your work, including also the great cause of the religious Released Time Program, and may the ranks of those who help grow, and the forces of opposition diminish until there is a complete reversal from darkness to light and triumph, in the words of the Megillah: “And for the Jews there was light, joy, gladness and glory.”
Hoping to hear good news from you always,

With blessing,

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“Survival of our heritage”

By the Grace of G-d
5 Iyar 5721
Brooklyn, NY

The Newman Family
21 Supple Road
Roxbury, MA

Greeting and Blessing:

I was pleased to receive your letter of Rosh Chodesh Iyar, in which you write your experience of a “chance” meeting with a Jewish girl, and the far-reaching results that it has led to in bringing her closer to her Jewish heritage. It is gratifying to note that you did not fail to see in this the intervention of the Divine Providence which extends to each and every one individually.

You will also be encouraged to see how every Jewish person, no matter how far estranged from the Jewish sources, is yet sensitive and responsive to the proper influence. I hope this will encourage you in your good work to exercise your utmost influence in this direction.

As we are now in the days of Sefirah, it is well to bear in mind that these days also emphasize the above lesson in regard to the great Sage, Rabbi Akiba and his disciples. For you surely know the story of Rabbi Akiba, who had 24,000 students, all of whom, unfortunately, died during the period of Sefirah, and, as our Sages relate, “The world was desolate.”

However, subsequently, Rabbi Akiba had five students, and these five individuals laid the foundation for the whole future of the Mishna and Talmud, and thus ensured the survival of our people. This story which our Sages recorded for a purpose, namely, that we should learn something from it in our own daily life, emphasizes the importance of every individual in the survival of our heritage, for no one can tell whether the particular individual Jewish child, boy or girl, may be one of such five students as Rabbi Akiba said.

Your experience should also serve as a complete rebuttal of those who oppose or are indifferent to such work as the Release Hour, minimizing the effect that one hour a week can have on a child, and at the same time making all sorts of false calculations to discourage making contact with Jewish children; for the sole effect of such an attitude is simply to deprive Jewish children from the only opportunity they may have to make contact with Jewish life.

May G-d bless you in your good work and influence, and may you go from strength to strength. Hoping to hear good news from you always,

With blessing,

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BDE: Ariella Benhiyoun, 81, OBM

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the sudden passing of Ariella Benhiyoun OBM, beloved sister, aunt, educator, and founder of Beis Medrash L’Nashim U’Lebanot who passed away on Thursday, 27 Sivan, 5786.

She was 81 years old.

Ariella was born in Morocco & came from a very prestigious family & was a descendant of the Chida & Rabbi Yosef Albo.

Ariella devoted her life to Torah, Chassidus, education, and helping others. Through her vision and dedication in founding Beis Medrash L’Nashim, she inspired countless women and left a lasting impact on her community and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Her outstanding acts of chesed touched countless lives and created a legacy that will continue for generations.

She is survived by her siblings: Dr. Esther Reich (Crown Heights), Dr. Miriam Parks (Huntington Beach, CA), Rabbi Meir Chai Benhiyoun (Chicago, IL), and Dr. Yosef Benhiyoun (Paris, France), along with many nieces, nephews, relatives, students, and friends who cherished her deeply.

Levaya Details:

The levaya will take place on Friday, passing by 770 Eastern Parkway at 12:00 PM, and will continue to Montefiore Cemetery for a 1:00 PM burial.

Shiva Details:

1301 President Street
(Between Brooklyn Avenue and New York Avenue)

Times TBD.

Boruch Dayan Hoemes

Ariella Benhiyoun, beloved sister, aunt, educator, and founder of Beis Medrash L’Nashim U’Lebanot in Crown Heights, passed away suddenly on Thursday, 27 Sivan, 5786.

She was 81.

Ariella was born in Morocco and came from a very distinguished family. She was a descendant of the Chida and Rabbi Yosef Albo. 

Ariella devoted her life to Torah, Chassidus, education, and helping others. Through her vision and dedication in founding Beis Medrash L’Nashim, she inspired countless women and left a lasting impact on her community and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Her outstanding acts of chesed touched countless lives and created a legacy that will continue for generations.

She is survived by her siblings: Dr. Esther Reich of Crown Heights, New York; Dr. Miriam Parks of Huntington Beach, California; Rabbi Meir Chai Benhiyoun of Chicago, Illinois; and Dr. Yosef Benhiyoun of Paris, France, along with many nieces, nephews, relatives, students, and friends who cherished her deeply.

Levaya Details:

The levaya will take place on Friday, passing by 770 Eastern Parkway at 12:00 PM, and will continue to Montefiore Cemetery for a 1:00 PM burial.

Shiva Details:
1301 President Street
(Between Brooklyn Avenue and New York Avenue)

Times TBD.

Baruch Dayan Ha’emes.

VIDEO: Clappy Checks Out New Haven.

By Mimi Minsky

For years, the New Haven community has quietly drawn families looking for a different pace of life; one rooted in strong schools, meaningful Jewish life, attainable homeownership, genuine community and institutions, and the kind of belonging that can’t be manufactured. Today, more families aren’t simply discovering New Haven. They’re choosing it.

Nestled between New York and Boston, and within reach of both Crown Heights and Monsey, New Haven has steadily grown from a well-kept secret into a place more and more families are choosing to call home. In other words, it isn’t about convenience anymore. It’s now becoming a destination in its own right.

Across the community, signs of growth are everywhere. The changes taking place across New Haven are impossible to miss. Most recently, a new women’s mikvah, designed to accommodate the needs of a rapidly growing community, will feature six preparation rooms and expanded luxury accommodations. (The groundbreaking took place last month). Nearby, construction is underway for a spacious new men’s mikvah.

Meanwhile, a few blocks away, a fully-stocked kosher supermarket is preparing to open its doors, bringing with it: fresh takeout, sushi, deli counters, pastries, coffee, and many of the conveniences the growing community has dreamed about.

For longtime residents, these projects represent more than infrastructure. They are evidence of a community investing in its future. Yet speak to the people who live here, and they’ll tell you that the real story isn’t about buildings. It’s about community.

“We’ve crossed an important threshold,” says one resident. “People aren’t just asking if New Haven has what they need anymore. They’re seeing a community that’s building for the future, together, and they want to be part of that.”

Perhaps the clearest reflection of New Haven’s growth may be found in its classrooms. Across the community’s two educational institutions (both “SCHA” and the local Cheder), enrollment is rising, and leaders are planning not only for today’s families, but for the generations that will follow.

At Southern Connecticut Hebrew Academy (“SCHA”), the community’s momentum is reflected in its classrooms. Under the leadership of Rabbi Sheya Hecht, the school recently acquired a new building, a reflection of the community’s expanding footprint and vision for the future. Preschool and elementary enrollment has steadily increased as young families arrive from all over the tristate area, many drawn to New Haven through Yale’s renowned medical, nursing, residency, and graduate programs. Under the thoughtful direction of Mrs. Raizy Kaplan, the preschool has continued to blossom, growing into a thriving institution, recently opening a second location (East Rock, New Haven) to meet increasing demand.

For many parents, the appeal extends beyond physical space. Known for its warm, family-like atmosphere and commitment to nurturing each child as an individual, the Cheder has become an important anchor for many young families putting down roots in New Haven. Founded by Mrs. Basya Deitsch, the Cheder focuses on individualized attention and meeting each child where they are. And for newcomers, the school serves as more than an educational institution: it becomes a first introduction to the warmth and connectedness that define life in New Haven.

Meanwhile, at Yeshivas Beis Dovid Shlomo, expansion has become a necessity rather than a luxury. After outgrowing its longtime campus, the yeshiva recently acquired a significantly larger property, creating opportunities for continued development and growth. “In larger communities, it’s easy to feel like one of hundreds,” says a local mother. “Here, every child is known. Every family matters.”

Over the past several years, community members have increasingly invested in projects designed to support the needs of a diverse community. Among them is Rabbi Eli Raskin, founder of Jewish Israeli Center (shul and community center), whose vision has helped bring several significant initiatives to life, including a new state-of-the-art men’s mikvah, as well as a keilim mikvah that will further enhance the neighborhood.

In many ways, New Haven’s story is not being written by any one institution or person. It is being shaped by families, business owners, educators, rabbanim, and community leaders.
“When people invest in a community, they’re making a statement,” says one resident. “They’re saying: we’re here to stay.”

Yet, ask residents what keeps them in New Haven, and the conversation quickly shifts away from real estate and local amenities and driving time tables. Instead, they talk about friendships. They talk about Shabbos. They talk about community.

Many of the families who move to New Haven arrive without parents or siblings nearby. Over time, neighbors become extended family. “A lot of us moved here not knowing anyone,” one woman explains. “Now our friends are family. We host each other for meals, celebrate simchas together, help each other through challenges, and raise our children alongside one another.”

On Shabbos afternoons, children walk from house to house. Families gather in backyards. There are dozens of events every month for men and women, from meaningful N’shei programs to creative Rosh Chodesh evenings, heartfelt shiurim, BBQs, and more. Young couples who arrived years ago now watch their children grow up together. It’s the kind of environment many people remember from previous generations and increasingly struggle to find elsewhere. “I came for the Kollel,” one young woman shares, “but now I want to stay.”

Asked about business and employment opportunities, Mendel Deitsch, owner of www.loohaven.com, says, “Connecticut is a lot more spread out and laid back than New York, there is a lot less competition, and you don’t have five plumbers on one block. There are also many employers within the community, and they are always hiring.”

For many years, New Haven was often viewed as an alternative to larger Jewish communities. Today, residents say that mindset has changed. Within driving distance of Crown Heights, Monsey, and New York City, New Haven offers access to larger shopping areas, real estate opportunities, even opportunity to maintain jobs within distance.

“Once a week, The Marketplace delivers from Crown Heights, as well as Rubashkin’s, Cruster’s, and other delivery services. We now have three neighborhood restaurants, a local health market, Edge of the Woods, with kosher takeout, and even our Shop Rite and Stop & Shop are equipped with kosher items,” shares one community member.

Housing remains affordable for many young families, with a range of options that would be difficult to find in other communities. The presence of Yale University, healthcare
institutions, local businesses, and entrepreneurial ventures have also attracted professionals from a variety of backgrounds.

But, that doesn’t explain the growth. “People aren’t moving here because they can’t live somewhere else,” says one community member. “They’re moving here because they want to live here.”

Community leaders like Rabbi Schneur Kessler, leader of the New Haven Kollel, emphasize that growth was never pursued for its own sake. The goal was always to build a warm, welcoming Jewish community where families could thrive.

The new mikvah projects, expanding schools, growing shuls, youth programming, charitable initiatives, and a new kosher supermarket are all expressions of that larger vision. What makes New Haven unique is the way those institutions work together to support a community built on connection.

As one resident put it, “At the end of the day, people stay because of people here.”

The new mikvah will open. The supermarket will welcome its first customers and both schools will fill new classrooms with students. The shuls will continue to grow and there will be events buzzing on the community chats. But perhaps the most remarkable thing about New Haven isn’t what is being built. It’s what already exists. A community that will continue to invest in each other.

—-

Reach out to Dovid Leib Morosow for for more info.
[email protected]
(347) 512-0042

By Rabbi Mendel Prescott

In the previous articles, much was brought up on ribbis in the corporate world. To give a real sense of how ribbis issues permeate so much of everyday financial life in America, we present here a few real-life cases that serve as prototypes for a much broader range of situations. We’ll examine what goes into determining the “kashrus” of a financial institution.

Let’s focus on Goldman Sachs, one of America’s largest investment firms, which operates like a typical bank alongside its other investment services. The founders of Goldman Sachs in the mid-1800s were Jewish, as the names plainly suggest — but over a century, companies change hands, and founding identity usually carries no weight. What matters is who is running the firm today. But let’s examine the current leadership.

The firm’s present leadership is notably Jewish — David Solomon as CEO, John Waldron as President, and Kathryn Ruemmler as General Counsel — all sitting at the very top of the decision-making structure. But leadership is not ownership. A malveh is the owner of the funds, not the one who administers the loan. One may bank at a non-Jewish bank even if the managers happen to be Jewish. Let’s take a look at the holdings.

Of the Jewish board members, Solomon holds the largest number of shares, at over 150,000, quite a sizable holding. While this may sound substantial, realize that Goldman has approximately 307 million shares outstanding. His stake amounts to roughly 0.05% of the company — negligible by any measure.

We previously cited Rav Moshe Feinstein and the Minchas Yitzchok who rule that Jewish stockholders pose no ribbis problem, since a minority shareholder exercises no real control over company decisions. A 0.05% stake carries no extra voting weight, no board access, and no operational influence whatsoever. (It is the institutional investors like Vanguard and BlackRock who hold 6–7% who sometimes manage move outcomes at annual meetings.) But Solomon isn’t a passive shareholder — he’s the CEO. Does his executive authority elevate his shareholdings to the level of halachic baalus?

Authority vs. Ownership

In a public company like Goldman Sachs, executive authority derives from one’s board appointment, not from share ownership. Solomon’s power to set lending policy, direct strategy, and oversee the firm’s interest-bearing operations is entirely due to the board’s hiring him as CEO. Even if he were to sell every share he owns, his would theoretically remain with identical authority. It would seem, then, that the two factors can be separated: his shareholdings are negligible, and his executive authority is independent of ownership and therefore poses no ribbis concern.

However, in practice, these two elements — share ownership and executive power — are difficult to be entirely isolated from one another. Large public companies typically maintain stock ownership guidelines, requiring executives to hold a significant number of shares (e.g. five to six times their salary) so that his decisions are aligned with the company’s interests. Goldman Sachs has such a policy. Hence, the shares are not incidental; they are a component of the executive’s role. So, David Solomon’s equity stake and his authority are not as easily separated as one might have thought.

Rav Avraham Moshe Levanoni in his Mishnas Ribbis (p. 61) addresses this question. His position is that the two aspects need not be viewed as connected — a CEO’s power stems from his election to that position, not from his ownership stake. He writes that he presented this reasoning to Rav Yisrael Belsky, who agreed, and added that he had heard the same sevara from Rav Moshe Feinstein. In addition, Rav Levanoni cites a teshuva from Rav Elyashiv (in the appendix to the sefer) who rules leniently on this point.

However, he writes that Rav Belsky added an important distinction: board members are to be treated differently from ordinary shareholders. Even a percentage of ownership that would pose no problem for a regular shareholder may be problematic when held by a board member, given the relationship between ownership and authority. The precise threshold, however, is not spelled out there; possibly 0.05% would pose a problem.

Subsidiary Companies

A related question arises with subsidiary companies. A subsidiary company is an independent company that is bought out completely by a larger company, but retains its own identity. Take GreenSky Lending as a real example — a construction loan firm that was acquired by Goldman Sachs in 2022 and structured as a wholly owned subsidiary of Goldman Sachs Bank. As such, borrowing from GreenSky would be halachically identical as to bowworoing form Goldman Sachs.

Subsidiary companies are not as straightforward as they may seem. Sometimes the parent company literally purchases the smaller company outright. But sometimes a parent company functions essentially as a syndicator or aggregator — it doesn’t truly “own” the subsidiary in the conventional sense. Rather, it raises money from outside investors, manages the operation, and collects a fee or carried interest, while the actual capital belongs to those outside investors.

For ribbis purposes, this distinction is significant. If Goldman Sachs is acting as a syndicator, then the real malveh isn’t Goldman Sachs at all — it’s the institutional funds behind the curtain who are the true lenders, and those are almost invariably non-Jewish entities. Determining which model applies requires researching the specific structure of the arrangement. (As of this writing, Goldman Sachs has sold GreenSky entirely to another institution, eliminating the issue for future transactions.)

Rov and Breirah

Even where Jewish ownership exists, two additional heteirim were raised by earlier poskim when the bank question first surfaced in the mid-1800s.

The first is the principle of rov. Rav Yitzchok Aharon Ettinger, in his teshuva regarding the beer production company in Nadvornah in which Jews held stock (discussed in an earlier article), added – beyond his primary hetter – that the Jewish shares could be disregarded since they constituted a minority.

Rav Yisrael Salanter (cited by Rav Moshe Sternbuch in Teshuvos Vehanhagos 4:194 and 2:421) similarly ruled that where Jewish shareholdings are a minority, we may apply bittul b’rov. However, he notes that this only works where the Jewish portion is not publicly known or identifiable. Otherwise, bittul b’rov cannot be applied. So, this hetter will not straightforwardly apply in the Goldman Sachs case, where Jewish identity in its leadership is very much publicly known.

The second principle raised is breirah. The concept of breirah allows us to clarify the designation of something that is otherwise unspecified. The classic example brought in the Gemara (Bava Kamma 51b) is the case of two partners in a property, where one forbids the other through a neder from deriving benefit from him. The question is whether the forbidden partner may still use the jointly owned property. If we apply breirah, we say that whatever portion he uses is viewed as his own for the time being — even though partnership ownership is by definition unspecified.

The same logic is applied here: any loan taken by a Jew from such a bank can be considered as coming specifically from the non-Jewish portion of the ownership. The Sho’eil U’Meishiv (Kamma 3:31), among others, raised this as a viable hetter. However, it sparked considerable debate among the poskim as to whether breirah can legitimately be applied in this context.

The Rebbe, in a letter addressing ribbis, cites this sevara but limits it to cases where the ribbis in question is d’rabbanan as the halacha follows the shittah of ein breirah for issurei d’oraysa. (See earlier article more on the Rebbe’s letter.)

Fintech: A Jewish Face on a Non-Jewish Bank

In the last decade, a new model of financial services has reshaped how people borrow and bank: the fintech company. Unlike a traditional bank, a fintech doesn’t hold a banking charter or lend its own money. Instead, it builds a digital platform, acquires customers, and partners with a licensed bank in the background to hold the deposits and issue the loans.

BlueVine is a classic example. Founded in 2013 by Eyal Lifshitz and Nir Klar, both of whom are Jewish, the company provides business banking to thousands of small businesses across the US and is currently privately owned. Can one bank with BlueVine without a hetter iska? The answer would seem to be yes — because BlueVine is not a bank itself. It is the face, the app, the brand, and the customer relationship, while the actual banking services are provided by Coastal Community Bank, and lines of credit are issued by Celtic Bank, a Utah-chartered industrial bank. The money being lent is theirs, not BlueVine’s. BlueVine is but one example of many such companies in the fintech world.

Download this week’s Olam Hahalachah here

When hundreds from around the world logged on to the first-ever Chassidus and AI Conference last year, it answered one question and opened a dozen more. This Sunday, June 14, 2026 / 29 Sivan, 5786, the second annual conference returns. It’s free and fully virtual, with its complete speaker lineup now announced.

The premise is hundreds of years old and as new as this week’s technology: how do we bring the deepest teachings of Chassidus to every Jew, in every place, in a way that speaks to each person individually? This year’s presenters take that question into territory most people haven’t yet imagined, and several of them will be showing real, working tools rather than talking in the abstract.

The conference is built around the questions Anash is already asking, out loud and in private: Where is this technology actually heading, and what does it mean for the way pnimiyus haTorah is learned and taught? Can a machine really help me integrate what I learn, or only help me look things up? When AI tells me what I want to hear, how is that quietly shaping the way I think? And how do you take a maamar and make it speak to a child, to a newcomer, or to someone struggling with anxiety at 2 a.m.?

The conference will be opened by words of inspiration from Rabbi Levi Wineberg, who is an acclaimed teacher of chassidus in Johannesburg, South Africa, whose father was the pioneer to bring chassidus to the radio, and who himself pioneered live simultaneous translations of the rebbe’s farbrengens, translated Lessons in Tanya, and was instrumental in founding Sichos in English.

Rabbi Asher Crispe, a technology futurist working with a French AI company on AGI, will open the horizon: the future of Chassidus and AI, where the technology is heading, and what it means for how Chassidus will be learned, taught, and internalized in the years ahead.

A cluster of presenters is quietly building the technology that everything else depends on.

Rabbi Yossi Yaffe, a shliach in Connecticut, will show how parsing and ingesting Chassidus can unlock a vast, interconnected network of knowledge, making it possible to trace how a single idea develops across generations and gain real insight into the intellectual history and development of Chassidus.

Rabbi Eliezer Shemtov will explore some of the most valuable and resonant applications of all: the mental-health dimension of Chassidus, and how to use AI to harness the lessons of Tanya and maamarim to speak directly to issues people wrestle with, including anxiety and depression.

Shimon Rosenberg, a Crown Heights businessman, will speak on how he uses AI to integrate his own Chassidus learning and how he has been applying Chassidus-based solutions to real-world problems in tech, letting the learning shape the engineering rather than the reverse.

Drawing on his research at Rutgers University, Dr. Joel Finkelstein will lead a discussion on the dangers of sycophancy, what happens when AI becomes an echo chamber that tells you what you want to hear, and how that can subtly distort your thinking.

Meyer Schmukler will discuss his passion for using AI to generate music to convey deep chassidic concepts and the revolutionary apps he is creating to bring chassidus to the world.

Rayi Stern who oversees AI at Merkos 302 will share what he learned building a retrieval system for Chassidus that, in addition to returning accurate answers, adds a flavor of insight and unique perspective.

Berel Marosow will speak about the dozens of apps he built to put Chassidus within arm’s reach.

Mendy Elishevitz will demonstrate how he uses AI to map the full scope of Chassidus, or the Rebbe’s Torah, on a given topic, parsha, or Yom Tov, so a learner can see the whole landscape of an idea at a glance.

Moishy Goldstein will give a practical, expert-level look at multimedia creation: how to achieve studio-level visual consistency in hafatzah, and how to bring concepts, values, and ideas to life on screen.

Rabbis Levi Raskin and Chanoch Chaskind of Maor will share how they use AI to translate the Rebbe’s Torah for children and for non-Chabad audiences, including how the technology helps uncover the Rebbe’s own unique way of speaking to children.

The conference takes place this Sunday, June 14, 2026 / 29 Sivan, 5786, beginning at 1pm EDT, online. Participation is free, though spaces are limited, with preference given to those actively involved in advancing the field. All registrants will receive access to the full recordings after the event.

The conference is co-hosted by Rabbi Zalman Abraham of JLI and Rabbi Mendy Shishler of “AI for Shlichus” (associated with Merkos 302).

Registration is open at ChassidusAI.com.

TTOP Pre1A Talmidim Shine At Chagigas Siddur

The TTOP Campus was filled with pride and joy at Tomchei Tmimim Ocean Parkway this past Sunday, as the Pre1A talmidim celebrated their milestone Chagigas Siddur. Standing proudly on stage, the young boys welcomed parents and family members through a levedike song and thanked them for coming. 

They then presented a poem with various pointers about davening learned in class with their rebbi – Rabbi Haberman, and showcased their excitement for receiving their Siddur. The program concluded with words of inspiration by Rabbi Lifshitz, Rabbi Dechter and Rabbi Haberman pointed out the importance of yeshiva and home partnership.

We extend a warm Mazal Tov to all of our incredible Talmidim, and their families. May they grow up to become a חסיד ירא שמים ולמדן bringing endless nachas to their parents and the entire TTOP family!

Behiros Bringing Chassidus to Non-Chabad Yiddish-Speaking Chassidish Communities

Over the past four years, the organization “Behiros” has been quietly building a growing movement focused on bringing the teachings of Chassidus and פנימיות התורה to non-Chabad Yiddish-speaking Chassidish communities in a relatable and authentic way.

Through farbrengens, publications, and Shabbos programs conducted in heimishe Yiddish, the organization has drawn hundreds of participants from communities across Monsey, Williamsburg, Boro Park, Lakewood, and beyond who are seeking inspiration, clarity, and a deeper connection to Yiddishkeit.

Throughout the year, Behiros arranges farbrengens in local communities, many of them drawing hundreds of participants. Unlike programs that focus primarily on abstract concepts, Behiros places strong emphasis on helping mainstream people understand how Chassidus applies directly to real life — including chinuch, shalom bayis, marriage, purpose in life, emotional wellbeing, parnassah, and day-to-day living as an עבד ה׳.

One of the unique aspects of the organization is its effort to present Chassidish ideas in a style and language familiar to the broader non-Chabad Yiddish-speaking Chassidish communities. In addition to live events, Behiros publishes Chassidish booklets written specifically in heimishe Yiddish, making the teachings more accessible to readers who may not otherwise be exposed to this approach.

Producing the material involves significant investment in writing, editing, design, printing, and distribution in order to ensure the content speaks to the realities and challenges faced by today’s heimishe families.

A major milestone came last year when Behiros organized what participants described as the first large-scale Shabbaton dedicated to spreading practical Chassidus within the broader non-Chabad Yiddish-speaking Chassidish world. More than 50 couples attended the uplifting weekend.

The Shabbaton was led by Rabbi Manis Friedman, Rabbi Shais Taub, and Mrs. Shterna Ginsburg, all widely respected speakers known for presenting deep Chassidish ideas in a practical and relatable way.

Participants described the Shabbos as transformative. Many were especially moved by Rabbi Manis Friedman’s Yiddish farbrengens, which deeply resonated with attendees.

One participant, identified as “B.K.,” shared that after nearly 30 years of marriage and raising a family with several married children, he still felt he was searching for deeper meaning in life and marriage. After coming across an advertisement for the Behiros Shabbaton, he decided to attend.

According to B.K., the experience opened an entirely new perspective for him. Through the classes and farbrengens, he discovered the Chassidish understanding that marriage itself is part of עבודת ה׳ — a way of serving Hashem with kedusha, purpose, and connection. He later testified that the Shabbos transformed the atmosphere in his home and changed the way he viewed both Yiddishkeit and married life.

Before Shavuos, Behiros hosted another large farbrengen in Monsey in preparation for Kabbolas HaTorah ahead of Shavuos, featuring Rabbi Manis Friedman. The event drew over 200 attendees for an evening of inspiration and Chassidus.

Videos of the recent Monsey farbrengen, along with many previous Behiros events and lectures, are available on YouTube.

As Behiros continues expanding its programs, publications, and events, those interested in supporting the effort, receiving the booklets, or joining the organization’s newsletter can contact [email protected] for more information.

Insights from Toras Reb Levi Yitzchok, a weekly class based on the teachings of Harav Levi Yitzchak Schneerson, chief rabbi of the city of Dnipropetrovsk, Ukraine, during the bloody Bolshevik revolution and the subsequent Communist oppression and father of the Rebbe.

The shiur is presented by Rabbi Dovid Dubov, Director of Chabad of Mercer County in Princeton, New Jersey, and author of Yalkut Levi Yitzchok, an anthology of commentaries collected from the works of Harav Levi Yitzchak, of blessed memory.

Organized by Irguntorah.org and aired on community news service COLlive.com.

From The Rebbe’s Father זצ״ל
Shelach

he must offer up with this bull a grain-offering consisting of three tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with half a hin of oil
15:9

The Talmud

״וְהַשְּׁתִיָּה כַדָּת (אֵין אוֹנֵס)״, מַאי ״כַּדָּת״? אָמַר רַבִּי חָנָן מִשּׁוּם רַבִּי מֵאִיר: כְּדָת שֶׁל תּוֹרָה, מָה דָּת שֶׁל תּוֹרָה אֲכִילָה מְרוּבָּה מִשְּׁתִיָּה — אַף סְעוּדָּתוֹ שֶׁל אוֹתוֹ רָשָׁע אֲכִילָה מְרוּבָּה מִשְּׁתִיָּה.
The verse states: “And the drinking was according to the law; none did compel” (Esther 1:8). The Gemara asks: What is the meaning of “according to the law”? Rabbi Ḥanan said in the name of Rabbi Meir: The drinking was according to the law of the Torah. Just as, according to the law of the Torah, with regard to offerings, the food sacrificed on the altar is greater in quantity than the drink, for the wine libation is quantitatively much smaller than the sacrificial offerings it accompanies, so too, at the feast of that wicked man, the food was greater in quantity than the drink.
.12a

Questions

A) Why is rule
Foods are greater/more then Liquid?

תורת לוי יצחק , ע רנב
ילקוט לוי יצחק פורים ע׳ ח

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Weekly Letter: Does the Law of Hasogas G’vul/Encroachment Applies in the Area of Torah Education?

On the topic of shlichus – as we learn in this week’s parsha of the sending of emissaries by Moshe Rabbeinu on a mission – our letter this week deals with shluchim of the Rebbe – and a basic and clear guideline for them in connection with Chabad shlichus. 

The Rebbe addresses the question and ruling by the Shulchan Aruch of whether the law of hasogas g’vul/encroachment applies in the area of Torah education and brings a number of points to support his position. 

By the Grace of G-d

9th of Sivan, 5745

Brooklyn, N.Y.

The Honorable

Canada

Greeting and Blessing:

I was pleased to receive your letter with enclosure.

First of all, many thanks for the good news it contained about your physical health, enabling you to get involved personally in the life of the Jewish community in your city.

I was also very pleased to read about your going from strength to strength in your personal spiritual advancement, in matters of Torah and mitzvoth. Your approach of doing mitzvoth and learning about their significance – in this order – is certainly in keeping with the approach of our Jewish people when the Torah was first received at Mt. Sinai, with the commitment of Naasseh (first, followed by) v’Nishma.

Since in the realm of the good there is always a natural striving for better, as our Sages express it, “whoever has 100 desires 200 and (having achieved) 200, desires 400” – it should certainly be so in regard to the eternal value of the Torah and mitzvot. 

Indeed, the assurance of Divine help in carrying out His imperatives takes account also of this Jewish nature of ever striving to do better, in keeping with the principle that “All matters of holiness should be on the ascendency.” Thus, Hashem provides the capacity not only to maintain one’s level of Yiddishkeit, but also to do so in a steadily growing measure, since the status quo in matters of Yiddishkeit, however satisfactory today, is not quite good enough tomorrow, when it should be on a higher level.

Now to the second point of your letter and the enclosed copy of the letter which you received from a Rabbi in your community – I must say that I was astonished at its contents. So much so, that I am impelled to depart from a principle established by my father-in-law, the Rebbe of saintly memory, in his activities ever since he arrived in the U.S.A. As expected, he also encountered criticism and sometimes more than that, from certain quarters or individuals. But he followed the principle of not engaging in a polemic since it was almost certain to be fruitless. Indeed, since the issue or issues involved activities to disseminate Torah and strengthen Yiddishkeit, he let the actions and results speak for themselves, for sooner or later, the critics and those who stood aloof, would recognize their misjudgment and become supporters and participants.

My astonishment was all the greater because the letter was written by a Rabbi who should know that there is a clear ruling in the Rambam and Shulchan Aruch to the effect that the law of encroachment (hasogat g’vul) – though it is one of the eleven strict prohibitions which the Jews were instructed to and did proclaim upon entering the Promised Land (Deut. 27:17) – does not apply in the area of Torah education. Moreover, the Shulchan Aruch further rules that not only is competition in Torah Chinuch permissible but, indeed, obligatory – regardless of existing facilities, especially when it concerns providing the best possible education for the young generation. Even if existing facilities were satisfactory under existing conditions, there is the rule of maalin b’kodesh, to upgrade things of holiness, i.e. not to be satisfied with the status quo, as indicated.

The halacha does not require to be approved by human reason. But this is a case where even a little reflection will suffice to realize why competition in the field of Torah Chinuch, far from being a negative factor in a Jewish community, is indeed healthy and commendable – if one considers it objectively.

For those who would still try to defend their contrary position in a polemic, I would pose a few “dumb questions,” to use a colloquialism.

Suppose a new and severe disease threatens, or actually takes the form of an epidemic – has one the right to discourage efforts to improve medical treatment of the provable, claiming that existing medical methods are satisfactory?

Question #2: Can one estimate how many of our younger generation and older ones, have moved and are moving away from Jewishness in recent years, many of whom have moved away very far, almost to the point of no return?

Question #3: Has the proliferation of educational institutions ever been harmful, and is not the time-honored Talmudic saying “Competition among the wise increases wisdom” a truism that has certainly proved itself in regard to Jewish institutions?

As for the person who declines to participate in a good cause, yet maintains that it “not be taken as critical in any way, but simply to make clear” his position, etc. – the answer is that public opinion is not shaped by intent, even good intentions, of a person taking a public stand, but by how the public interprets his words and action; and ultimately the important thing is the actual net result of that action.

To conclude on the timely subject of Shavuos , which we have just celebrated, it is worth noting that one may wonder why such a “to do’ is made of the Festival of Mattan Torah, considering that only twelve months ago it was celebrated enthusiastically and wholeheartedly, etc. Yet, the Torah requires that it should again be celebrated with renewed enthusiasm and commitment, reliving – as much as possible – the tremendous experience of the Divine Revelation and the Giving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai. And since the Torah does expect this, it is certain that every Jew possesses the potential to actualize it, not only for the sake of others, but also for one’s own sake and edification.

May you continue advancing in Torah and mitzvoth steadily and consistently, which includes of course, continuing to benefit your community in a growing measure, in keeping with the Great Principle of the Torah – V’Ohavto L’Reacho Komocho.

Looking forward to further good news from you in all above and wishing you again much hatzlocho in all your endeavors.

                                                                  With esteem and blessing,

Pocono Raceway Debuts First Kosher Food Stand in NASCAR History

by Dovid Margolin – chabad.org

In what is almost certainly a first for the 78-year-old sport, the Pocono Raceway will be introducing a kosher concession stand at the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series race this weekend.

One of the most important races on the circuit, the NASCAR Cup Series has been coming to the Pocono Raceway in Long Pond, Penn., for the last 53 years. “It’s as big as it gets as far as stock car racing goes,” explains Ben May, president of the Pocono Raceway. The race draws 115,000 fans over the weekend of June 12-14, with 50,000 attending Sunday’s Great American Getaway 400—160 laps on a 2.5 mile long triangle-shaped track nicknamed the Tricky Triangle. “Forty of the greatest race car drivers in the world doing close to 200 mph for three hours, with that intense focus, neck and neck. It’s an unbelievable experience.”

I know what you’re thinking. Jews? Stock car racing? Who ever heard of Jews into stock car racing?

“It is surprising to me that there are Jews who are interested in NASCAR,” admits Jeffrey S. Gurock, longtime professor of Jewish history at Yeshiva University in New York and the author of Judaism’s Encounter with American Sports, among other books. And a kosher concession stand? “It is certainly unusual.”

There’s nothing nefarious about the Jews’ historic disinterest in stock car racing, Gurock explains. The American sport first developed in rural areas of the south with small or non-existent Jewish populations, places like Martinsville, Va.; Lincoln, Ala.; Darlington, S.C.; and Bristol, Tenn. With little exposure to the sport, Jews simply never got into it.

More and more Jewish families are attending NASCAR events. That’s why Chabad rabbis approached the Pocono Raceway with the idea of offering kosher food at their marquee event of the season. Bendet says the response was enthusiastic. Pocono Raceway

But the times, they are a-changin’.

More and more Jewish families are attending NASCAR events, say Rabbi Mendel Bendet and Rabbi Mendel Raices of Chabad-Lubavitch of the Poconos. That’s why they first approached the Pocono Raceway with the idea of offering kosher food at their marquee event of the season. Bendet says the response was enthusiastic. “They were very happy to work with us.”

Pocono Raceway’s May didn’t grow up with racing himself, and knows all about the historic lack of Jewish NASCAR fans. But he’s also unsurprised that it’s changing. “This really is a family experience,” he says. “We’re a family-owned racetrack, we treat people like family, and our events feel like family.” Having kosher food available for fans just made sense.

In an era when the price of admission to major sporting events has climbed to eye-watering heights—as they have at a host of other attractions, from amusement parks to museums—family-friendly also means affordable. Tickets for the premier event start at $60, but children under 12 are free, parking is free, and small coolers are allowed. Besides for the fan fair, the Pocono Raceway has two playgrounds, one in the infield and the other behind the grandstand; mothers’ room; sensory rooms; and a host of other amenities. Not to mention world class racing.

The kosher stand will be located under the grandstand, says Raices, and will have a limited menu of hot dogs, drinks, and the opportunity to do a mitzvah, but they plan to expand their offerings in the future.

Gurock, the professor of Jewish history, told me that while he may be surprised that Jews are starting to follow NASCAR, kosher food becoming available is another reflection of the way American Jews can maintain their traditions while partaking in American sports.

“It’s news to me that Jews are into NASCAR,” he says. “But it’s not news to me that now that they are, Chabad is there to help.”

Pocono Raceway

This week, the Living Legacy Conference was held in Washington, D.C., bringing together hundreds of Chabad Shluchim, supporters, public officials, and distinguished guests from across the United States and dozens of countries around the world.

Organized by the American Friends of Lubavitch–Chabad, the conference was dedicated to the legacy and vision of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, and to examining the impact of his teachings on Jewish and public life in America and beyond.

The event highlighted the work of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, which today maintains an active presence in all 50 U.S. states and in more than 110 countries worldwide. It also served as a platform for meaningful engagement between community leaders, Chabad emissaries, and prominent figures from the political, business, academic, and nonprofit sectors.

Rabbi Levi Shemtov, Executive Vice President of American Friends of Lubavitch-Chabad, said, “We hold conferences like this every few years to reflect on the Rebbe’s leadership, his legacy, and the impact of his teachings on American life.”

The three-day conference opened with an elaborate breakfast on Capitol Hill with the participation of dozens of members of Congress and senators from both parties. Lawmakers from across the political spectrum—including Democrats and Republicans from both the House of Representatives and the Senate—addressed the gathering.

Participants then continued to the Library of Congress, where the Hebraic Section showcased rare and valuable Jewish manuscripts, such as the Washington Haggadah and Chabad related publications from its collections.

Special presentations prepared by the Jewish Learning Institute (JLI) explored the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States, the role of the Jewish community in American history, and the Rebbe’s connection to these historic developments. Dr. Naftali Loewenthal, Assistant Professor at the University of London and the Head of the UK Chabad Research Unit delivered a paper on Ten Points of Leadership in the Rebbe’s Teachings.

The conference then moved to the U.S. Department of State’s ornate Benjamin Franklin Room, on of the capital’s most magnificent venues, where senior diplomats participated in the Global Jewish Roundtable. Among the speakers was Israel’s Ambassador to the United States, Dr. Yechiel Leiter.

“It is not easy to inspire a room full of rabbis, but he succeeded, and everyone was talking about his remarks afterward,” Shemtov said.

Letters were then inscribed into the Washington Torah to remember the occasion. A panel followed featuring the Ambassador of the European Union to the United States and the Australian Ambassador to the United States, focusing on the challenges facing Jewish communities in their respective regions. Another panel brought together Chabad representatives from the Gulf States, Latin America, Asia, and Europe, who shared firsthand perspectives on the issues and concerns confronting Jewish communities around the world.

In the evening, participants attended a gala banquet at the Organization of American States that included a tribute to members of the United States military and Jewish servicemen and women. A number of Generals, Admirals, and senior civilian and military representatives from the U.S. defense establishment were in attendance, as were the parents of the last US Citizen returned from Gaza, Edan Alexander, Adi and Yael Alexander, who delivered moving remarks about their visit to the Ohel of The Rebbe, centered on faith, hope, and prayer.

The keynote address was delivered by Hon. Justice Marcus Solomon of the Supreme Court of Western Australia, who also serves as a rabbi. His presentation focused on the Rebbe’s approach to combating antisemitism and addressing some of the most pressing social and moral challenges of our time. The evening concluded with a special concert featuring melodies taught and shared by the Rebbe, alongside original symphonic Chabad niggunim performed by a 25 piece orchestra, especially commissioned for this occasion. Music arranged and conducted by Avremi G, performed by the ‘A Team’.

On the conference’s final day, a large delegation visited the White House, where participants met with senior presidential advisers and engaged in discussions on a range of Jewish issues. A smaller group later met with Vice President of the United States JD Vance for what participants described as a “substantive and meaningful” exchange of views.

Asked why such a conference is especially important at this moment, Rabbi Shemtov said that the Jewish people are facing unprecedented challenges and that studying the Rebbe’s teachings provides practical guidance for addressing them effectively.

“I believe one of our core missions is to bring people together—people with different levels of religious observance and different political perspectives,” he said. “The Rebbe’s message was that we can remain firmly committed to our values and identity while also listening to others, understanding them, and working toward unity and mutual respect.”

According to Rabbi Shemtov, at a time when Jewish communities around the world are confronting growing challenges, strengthening a shared sense of purpose and responsibility is more important than ever.

“Throughout history, Jews have been expelled from 109 countries,” he concluded. “Today, Chabad operates in 112 countries around the world. We are here to stay. We are here to continue our work and to bring more light wherever we go until our mission is done.”

Construction continues to move full steam ahead on Phase 2 of the major expansion project at Lubavitcher Yeshiva, as the growing Crown Heights moised continues building “hecher un hecher.”

The Phase 2 expansion includes the addition of two new floors and approximately 20,000 square feet of new space to the existing building. Once completed, the expansion will provide much-needed classrooms, resource rooms, offices, and recreational areas to support the Yeshiva’s continued growth for years to come.

https://online.flippingbook.com/view/684878675/

Parents and community members continue to express excitement as visible progress becomes more noticeable week by week.

With construction moving steadily forward, Lubavitcher Yeshiva says additional updates will continue to be shared with the community as another major chapter in the growth of Tomchei Temimim becomes reality.

Lubavitcher Yeshiva thanks its Rebbeim and Morahs for helping make this expansion happen!

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The Juneberry Gallery’s newest fine art exhibition, The Jewish American Experience in the Medina shel Chesed, drew an appreciative audience of art aficionados this past Sunday, June 7th. The exhibit, featuring an array of marvelously talented artists, launched the first in a series of special events and programs planned for the summer in conjunction with the gallery.

On Sunday, June 14, 2026, Erev Rosh Chodesh Tammuz, the Juneberry Gallery will host Crown Heights Women for the Safety and Integrity of Israel’s 12th Annual Shleimus HaAretz Conference for Israel.

Open to the public, the conference begins at 2pm. The Juneberry Gallery is located in Crown Heights, 1714 President Street, Brooklyn, New York 11213.

Held annually in the lead up to the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s Yom Hillula (day of passing) on Gimmel Tammuz, the conference honors the Rebbe’s legacy of leadership under the banner for Shleimus HaAretz – preserving Israel’s territorial integrity in order to protect Jewish lives – Pikuach Nefesh and also gives special recognition to those resolute individuals and groups from across the Jewish community whose steadfast efforts bring the Rebbe’s message to fruition.

This year’s shining star is the Legal Forum for Israel headed by CEO Yotam Eyal. Yotam is both a Constitutional Expert and the legal commentator for Channel 14 in Israel.

The Legal Forum was founded in 2004 in response to the utterly ill-conceived, flagrant legislation that gave sanction the Expulsion from Gush Katif, r”l. Ever since, The Legal Forum’s team of over 400 volunteer attorneys work to safeguard and protect the national interests of the Jewish people in the State of Israel by bringing constructive change through legal means to the country’s legislative and judicial branches.

Among its many achievements has been the bill to Offset the Palestinian Authority’s Pay to Slay salaries given to terrorists who murder or maim Jews. Passed in 2018, the equivalent in revenue used to pay terrorists’ “salaries” – collected from the tariffs and taxes the State of Israel collects on the PA’s behalf – is, by law, kept in Escrow.

Needless to say, the next step must be to ensure that these funds are never returned to these vile anti-Semites and are instead used exclusively to support victims of terror and their entire families recover and rebuild their lives.

The program includes a gallery tour of The Jewish American Experience in the Medina shel Chesed. Light refreshments will be served.

Yotam will begin speaking at 2:30pm sharp. RSVP required. To Learn More and RSVP: www.juneberrygallery.com/shleimushaaretzconference

By COLlive reporter

A new initiative aims to address a long-standing challenge facing Jewish communities across New York, New Jersey, and the broader United States: the proper disposal of sheimos and genizah materials.

Sheimos, also known as genizah, refers to worn-out or damaged Jewish religious materials that contain Hashem’s name or sacred Torah content and therefore cannot be discarded in a regular manner. These items can include siddurim, chumashim, prayer sheets, Torah study materials, mezuzah parchments, and other printed or handwritten texts containing divrei Torah. According to Jewish law, such materials require respectful disposal, traditionally through burial. As a result, Jewish communities have long maintained systems for collecting and properly handling sheimos before it is transferred for burial.

Unlike in Israel, where dedicated genizah containers are commonly available in many neighborhoods, there has been no widespread, organized solution in the United States. As a result, many people store accumulated sheimos until Erev Pesach, while others struggle to find appropriate disposal options throughout the year.

A new system is designed to provide a practical solution for both individuals and shuls.

Specially designated collection containers will allow users to deposit a bag of sheimos for a fee of $6 per bag – approximately the size of a grocery bag. Organizers say the pricing was intentionally set to remain affordable and accessible for the public.

One such container has been installed in Crown Heights, conveniently located on the corner of President and Kingston Avenue, in the yard near the former Gombo’s Bakery, thanks to the generosity of Itzik Benabou, the owner of the property.

The initiative also seeks to ease the burden on shuls, where gabbaiim often find themselves handling large quantities of genizah brought by community members who have no other place to dispose of it. Organizers say the new system will help reduce pressure on shuls while providing a convenient year-round option for the public.

The first 30 collection sites have already been installed. Over the coming month, the system will be evaluated to identify and correct any issues. If successful, organizers plan to expand by adding approximately 300 additional collection units over the next year to year-and-a-half.

According to the project’s organizers, the goal is not profit but rather covering operational expenses, including collection, transportation, maintenance, and burial costs.

A major focus of the initiative has been oversight and transparency. To address concerns about how genizah is ultimately handled, the project operates under the supervision of two major kashrus organizations, the OU and the CRC.

Organizers say both organizations provide certification and supervision for the collection containers as well as the burial process itself, ensuring that materials are handled properly from collection through final burial.

Another unique feature of the program is its burial method. Rather than burying genizah underground, organizers have secured dedicated above-ground burial space in New Jersey. They say this approach was chosen in part due to potential future environmental regulations that could restrict underground burial. The designated burial areas are supervised and monitored under the same certification standards.

Organizers expressed hope that the project will provide a long-term solution for communities that have struggled for decades with proper genizah disposal, offering individuals and institutions an accessible, supervised, and reliable option throughout the year.

How to use the machine:

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CGI Parksville Releases Song for 70th Anniversary

This summer, Camp Gan Yisroel is marking a major milestone — seventy years since the Rebbe established what has become one of the most iconic Jewish summer camps in the world. To mark the occasion in a fitting way, CGI Parksville has released an original song titled Seventy Years Strong, set to the well-known tune of B’cho Hashem Chosisi, which was composed for the Rebbe’s 70th birthday in 1972.

The song tells the story of Gan Yisroel, tracing the camp’s journey from its very first summer in Ellenville, NY, through its years in Swan Lake, and finally to the current grounds in Parksville, where camp has been home for over fifty years. The lyrics capture both the fun and spirit of camp life — the sports, the trips, the friendships — and the deeper mission that the Rebbe had in mind: Torah above all.

For many alumni, those memories remain vivid decades later. Among them is renowned singer Avraham Fried, who recalls looking forward to Camp Gan Yisroel all year long. One of his favorite memories was performing in an acrobatic show on Visiting Day under the direction of a talented staff member, Yontil Lison. The highlight was a diving routine in which each boy leaped over a row of campers. By the time his turn came, more than a dozen boys were lined up, and after one mishap during practice, he successfully made the longest jump of them all.

Avremel also remembers singing during Color War a song composed by Rabbi Mendel Lipsker, today the head Shliach to South Africa. “Whether my team won or lost, I no longer remember,” Avremel recalls. “What I do remember is the joy and excitement that made Camp Gan Yisroel — the Rebbe’s camp — such a special place.”

Seventy years is no small thing. A camp that the Rebbe personally visited, named, and called his own “reshus,” Gan Yisroel has grown into something truly extraordinary. Thousands of campers have passed through these grounds over the decades, and the fruits of those summers are felt throughout the world to this day. As the Rebbe explained, a Gan is a place where beautiful fruit grows. That is Gan Yisroel — the garden where Jewish children grow, and have grown — for seventy years, and many more to come.

The song was written and developed by Shmuly Wudowsky, Leibel Kahan, Avrohom Goldberg, and Rabbi Mendel Denburg. A special thank you goes to Yoel Weiss for going above and beyond to produce the track. Thank you to CGI alumni — Avraham Fried, Benny Friedman, Bentzi Marcus, Boruch Sholom Blesofsky, and Eli Marcus who joined together to help Gan Yisroel celebrate this special moment in its history.

None of this would have happened without the vision and investment of camp directors Rabbi Avrohom Shemtov and Rabbi Yossie Futerfas, who made the project a reality from start to finish.

Now available on all major streaming platforms!

song.link/70yearsstrong

The lyrics of the song are presented below:

Seventy Years Strong — Shivim Shana Theme Song (T.T.T.O. B’cho Hashem Chosisi)

In Ellenville the seeds were sown / The Rebbe’s camp created / Then Swan Lake became its home / The grounds of Gan Yisroel
In Parksville now the garden grows / Its mission clearly stated / With all the sports and trips we know / It’s Torah above all

Chorus (x2): Kiryas Gan Yisroel / Where each child does belong / The Rebbe’s garden blossoming / For seventy years strong!
Kiryas Gan Yisroel / Let the celebration start / Shivim Shana / Ashreinu we’re a part

Like the branches of a tree / Camp expanded globally / A dirah for Hashem’s the goal / Each camper playing an important role
I gaze up at our flag so tall / Reminding me to heed its call / I’ll make sure to show what grew here / Its perois tovois all throughout the year

In Episode 65 of Lamplighters: Stories From Chabad Emissaries On The Jewish Frontier, reporter/producer Gary Waleik presents the story of Rabbi Peretz and Rebbetzin Chanie Chein, Chabad emissaries to Brandeis University in Waltham, Massachusetts. The Cheins’ shlichus includes campus outreach, of course. But it also includes a dynamic new program, an approach to inner work modeled on a famous Maamer of the Lubavitcher Rebbe.

Lamplighters: Stories From Chabad Emissaries On The Jewish Frontier is producing a series of moving, beautifully produced, sound-rich and often surprising stories of Chabad shluchim and the people they inspire in every corner of the world.

Listen and subscribe at http://www.lubavitch.com/podcast and on all major podcast platforms.

To pitch a story for our podcast about Chabad emissaries or for dedication/sponsorship opportunities, email us at [email protected].

Gimmel Tammuz Event to Explore the Gift of the Rebbe’s Torah

Gimmel Tammuz is a day dedicated to connection.

For many, however, that connection can feel surprisingly elusive.The day is filled with emotion, reflection, travel, farbrengens, hachlatos, and countless worthwhile activities. By the end of the day, one may have participated in many rituals and even meaningful experiences, yet still feel an unfulfilled desire for something deeper and more personal.

It is this need that stands at the heart of ‘The Gift of the Rebbe’s Torah’ program. Created by Karnei Ohr, the program was carefully designed to create a space where participants can slow down, learn deeply, and experience the hiskashrus that comes through Torah itself.

Five respected rabbonim and mashpi’im will each present a single foundational insight, perspective, or chiddush that captures something distinctive about the Rebbe’s Torah and its relevance to our lives today.

The Gift of the Rebbe’s Torah will take place on Wednesday evening, the eve of Gimmel Tammuz. Each speaker will deliver a concise 15-minute presentation highlighting a foundational idea, perspective, or chiddush. 

The speakers are Rabbi Fishel Oster, maggid shiur at Oholei Torah; Rabbi Shmuly Avtzon, director of Sichos in English; Rabbi Ephraim Mintz, executive director of JLI; Rabbi Shlomie Sternberg, menahel of Chovivei Torah; and Rabbi Levke Kaplan, rabbi of The Shull in Crown Heights.

Anash and shluchim are invited to join the evening of learning and connection, gaining a renewed appreciation for the depth of the Rebbe’s Torah and the guidance it offers in everyday life.

Wednesday, June 178:00 PMLubavitcher Yeshiva – 570 Crown Street

Light refreshments will be served.
Maariv will follow the program.

The event is organized by Karnei Ohr, whose mission is to make Torah accessible, relatable and relevant. Through transformative learning experiences, one-on-one study, and community programs, Karnei Ohr, headed by Rabbi Shloime Wolvovsky, has made a significant impact on Torah learning in Crown Heights and beyond.

To learn more about Karnei Ohr, visit karneiohr.org.

To partner with Karnei Ohr in this event and future initiatives, visit donorbox.org/supporters-circle.

First-Ever Tanya Printing in Chad, Africa Takes Place by Solo Female

by CrownHeights.info

A new chapter was written in the ongoing mission to spread the wellsprings of Chassidus to every corner of the globe as a Tanya was printed in the African nation of Chad for the very first time.

Making the achievement even more remarkable, the printing was organized and carried out by a woman working independently, marking what is believed to be the first solo woman-led Tanya printing in Chad.

The historic undertaking was made possible with the assistance and guidance of the Chabad-run Jewish Center in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, under the leadership of Rabbi Eliyahu and Rebbetzin Devorah Leah Chaviv.

Just days before Gimmel Tammuz, this printing in Chad represents yet another step in the realization of the Rebbe’s vision. Beginning in the 1970s and intensifying after the Rebbe’s historic call in 1984, Chassidim and shluchim around the world have worked tirelessly to bring the Tanya to every conceivable location, from military bases and embassies to remote islands and far-flung communities across the globe.

The Rebbe explained that printing a Tanya in a particular location establishes a lasting connection between that place and the teachings of Chassidus, bringing spiritual illumination and strengthening Jewish life in the area. Over the decades, thousands of unique editions have been printed worldwide, each serving as a beacon of holiness in its respective corner of the world.

While Chad is not known as a center of Jewish life, the printing underscores a theme familiar to Chabad chassidim: that no place is too distant and no location is beyond the reach of Torah and Chassidus. Just as Tanyas have been printed in locations ranging from Caribbean islands to diplomatic missions and military installations, Chad now joins the growing list of countries connected to the Alter Rebbe’s timeless teachings.

Mazal tov to all those who participated in this historic achievement whose assistance brought the first Tanya printing in Chad from dream to reality.

To donate towards the work of the Jewish Center In Ethiopia: Click Here

Gimmel Tammuz is a day dedicated to connection.

For many, however, that connection can feel surprisingly elusive.

The day is filled with emotion, reflection, travel, farbrengens, hachlatos, and countless worthwhile activities. By the end of the day, one may have participated in many rituals and even meaningful experiences, yet still feel an unfulfilled desire for something deeper and more personal.

It is this need that stands at the heart of ‘The Gift of the Rebbe’s Torah’ program. Created by Karnei Ohr, the program was carefully designed to create a space where participants can slow down, learn deeply, and experience the hiskashrus that comes through Torah itself.

Five respected rabbonim and mashpi’im will each present a single foundational insight, perspective, or chiddush that captures something distinctive about the Rebbe’s Torah and its relevance to our lives today.

The Gift of the Rebbe’s Torah will take place on Wednesday evening, the eve of Gimmel Tammuz. Each speaker will deliver a concise 15-minute presentation highlighting a foundational idea, perspective, or chiddush.

The speakers are Rabbi Fishel Oster, maggid shiur at Oholei Torah; Rabbi Shmuly Avtzon, director of Sichos in English; Rabbi Ephraim Mintz, executive director of JLI; Rabbi Shlomie Sternberg, menahel of Chovivei Torah; and Rabbi Levke Kaplan, rabbi of The Shull in Crown Heights.

Anash and shluchim are invited to join the evening of learning and connection, gaining a renewed appreciation for the depth of the Rebbe’s Torah and the guidance it offers in everyday life.

Wednesday, June 17
8:00 PM
Lubavitcher Yeshiva – 570 Crown Street

Light refreshments will be served.

Maariv will follow the program.

The event is organized by Karnei Ohr, whose mission is to make Torah accessible, relatable and relevant. Through transformative learning experiences, one-on-one study, and community programs, Karnei Ohr, headed by Rabbi Shloime Wolvovsky, has made a significant impact on Torah learning in Crown Heights and beyond.

To learn more about Karnei Ohr, visit karneiohr.org.

To partner with Karnei Ohr in this event and future initiatives, visit donorbox.org/supporters-circle.

Here’s My Story: The Interview of a Lifetime

Rabbi Shalom DovBer Levine

Click here for a PDF version of this edition of Here’s My Story, or visit the My Encounter Blog.

Six years after I started working in the Rebbe’s library at Chabad Headquarters — where one of my tasks was gathering letters and manuscripts of the past Rebbes and preparing them for publication — I developed a connection with Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka.
This came about because — starting in about 1982 — the Rebbe and the Rebbetzin began staying in the library for Shabbat. By then, the Rebbe was in his eighties and he had survived a very serious heart attack. During the week, he could be driven back and forth from his home on President Street to 770 Eastern Parkway, but on Shabbat this was obviously impossible.

To accommodate the needs of the Rebbe and the Rebbetzin, my office in the library was turned into a living room, and other areas into a dining room, kitchen and bedroom. Because the Rebbetzin was now a frequent visitor in my work space, I got to know her and began to feel comfortable speaking with her.

In 1983, I was working on the fifth volume of the letters of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka’s father, the Previous Rebbe. These letters had been written at the beginning of World War Two, between 1939 and 1941, and some of them concerned the extraction of the Rebbe and the Rebbetzin from France during the Nazi occupation.

As I read the various letters, I was confused about their travels through France — the cities named in the letters were Paris, Vichy, Nice, Marseilles, and Lisbon, Portugal. I felt that it would not be appropriate for me to ask the Rebbe about the details of his personal life, but I needed to know the background in order to make sense of the letters. So, instead, I decided to ask the Rebbetzin.

The occasion presented itself one Friday just before the onset of Shabbat, after the Rebbetzin lit Shabbat candles and the Rebbe went off to pray. I requested to speak with her then, and I explained to her that I was editing her father’s letters and needed to write an introduction describing the background, but I could not quite grasp what had happened. Could she help me? She heard my question and thought about it for a while in silence. In truth, I expected her to tactfully decline, but to my surprise, she began to recount the whole story.

She said that, in those days, before the Nazis occupied Paris, it was quite dangerous for a young man to walk on the streets. The French police could grab him and take him away to fight in the war. So the Rebbe enlisted in the civilian guard and received a certificate that he was a registered recruit. With this certificate, he could walk on the streets without being harassed.

But when the Nazis occupied Paris (and, indeed, most of France), every Jew was in grave danger, not to mention a Jew who was also a recruit, and so the Rebbe and the Rebbetzin had to flee. The first place they went was Vichy in the Free Zone, which the French still controlled. They left Paris just before Shavuot and arrived in Vichy when twilight had already begun. To reach their hotel, the Rebbe hired a horse and wagon for the Rebbetzin and all their many suitcases. Although one is normally not allowed to ride on a holiday, when one’s life is at risk, it is certainly permissible. Nevertheless, the Rebbe walked alongside the carriage all the way to their destination.

Now here I must explain why they had so many suitcases.

Some years before this, the Previous Rebbe told his secretaries that for every letter of public interest that he wrote, they should make an extra carbon copy and send it to his son-in-law (who would become the future Rebbe). So this is how the Rebbe acquired hundreds of letters written by the Previous Rebbe. In addition, the Rebbe had also made photostat copies of many manuscripts of discourses by the Previous Rebbe’s father, the Rebbe Rashab. This was a lot of precious material. But he brought it all with him from place to place, even though it was wartime.

The Rebbe and the Rebbetzin remained in Vichy for several months, but with the French cooperating with the Nazis, it was not safe for Jews there, so at the end of the summer of 1940, they moved to Nice, which was under the occupation of the Italian government and somewhat safer. While in Nice, they applied for papers to immigrate to the United States, but these were a long time in coming.

Meanwhile, the Previous Rebbe, who was already in America, was doing all he could to get them permission to immigrate. He was writing letters to various individuals, trying to get them exit visas and entry visas and all the necessary papers. Some of this correspondence went to Nice, but I noticed that at some point — during the winter of that year — it was sent to Marseilles, although they remained in Nice. The Rebbetzin clarified that it was easier to receive travel documents from the American consulate in Marseilles, and these finally came through at the end of Passover of 1941.

However, although they now had the correct papers to enter the US, they had no way to get here from France. It turned out that the best option was to board a ship in Portugal. For this, they required a transit visa, which was hard to obtain.

The Previous Rebbe contacted Rabbi Nissan Waxman in Lakewood, who had a brother-in-law with connections, and this individual was able to arrange a transit visa for them. And that is how, after thirteen months of effort, they finally managed to get out of Europe, arriving in America on the 28th of Sivan.

The Previous Rebbe was overjoyed and that very day he wrote a thank you letter to the people involved in their extraction, notably to Rabbi Dovid Meir Rabinowitz whose son was instrumental in getting them some of the necessary papers. (Incidentally, it is from this letter that we know the exact date of the Rebbe and the Rebbetzin’s arrival in the US.)

I recounted this entire story in my introduction to the collection of letters of the Previous Rebbe from this period, but I did not state there that all this information came from Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka because I knew that, being such a private person, she probably would not have liked that. But I think now, after so much time has passed, I can testify that it all came from her.

Rabbi Shalom DovBer Levine is an author, historian and researcher, who has published many books pertaining to the Chabad Movement and its leadership. He serves as the director and curator of the Chabad-Lubavitch Library. He was interviewed three times – in 1994, 2007 and 2023.

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A Story – 25 Years In The Making – That Wouldn’t Let Go

by Levi Piekarski

There are Yidden who leave this world surrounded by family, memories, and a matzeivah that quietly tells their story.

And then there are those who are left behind… with no visitors, no voice, and sometimes—no matzeivah at all.

For nearly 25 years, one such Yid rested in silence.

A Story That Wouldn’t Let Go

It began with a simple conversation with Rabbi Aaron Margolin of the Chabad House of Virginia.

I had reached out regarding my Tehillim service—reciting the entire Sefer Tehillim at a kever or at the Ohel, l’iluy nishmas, for those seeking yeshuos and yeshuos for their loved ones.

During that conversation, the topic shifted.

I shared with him the other side of my work—the quiet, difficult world of Chesed Shel Emes, where forgotten kevarim are restored, and where I try to bring dignity back to those who have no one left to speak for them.

I told him I had recently raised funds for a matzeivah for a niftar who had passed only two years earlier, and that I was already working on another restoration project. Over time, I have been zocheh to restore more than 300 kevarim, each one carrying its own silent story.

Then Rabbi Margolin said something that stopped me.

He told me that nearly 25 years ago, he had conducted a levayah for a Yid—but to this day, there was still no matzeivah.

No marker. No name on stone. Just silence.

Something about that didn’t let me move on.

A Name That Was Almost Lost

At first, it seemed nearly impossible.

There was no clear record of the Jewish name. I contacted Chabad contacts, Chevra Kadisha organizations, Shimrei Hadas—week after week, one answer led to another dead end.

My Rav and Mashpia reminded me how important it is for a matzeivah to carry the proper Jewish name. That became my focus: not just to place a stone, but to restore identity.

Slowly, through persistence and Hashem’s help, the name finally surfaced.

After almost 25 years, a name was restored to a kever that had none:

ירמיהו יעקב בן יוסף

Today, He Has a Matzeivah

On Chof Sivan, the matzeivah was finally installed.

A Yid who had lain forgotten for decades now has a place that speaks his name.

A stone. A marker. A quiet dignity returned.

Why This Matters

In the world of Chesed Shel Emes, there is no audience. No recognition. No expectation of return.

Only the mitzvah itself.

Every kever restored is a statement:

This Yid is not forgotten.

Every matzeivah placed is a whisper:

You mattered.

A Personal Zechus

Whenever I go to the Ohel or to kivrei tzaddikim, I bring pictures of the kevarim I have been zocheh to restore. I daven there on behalf of those who ask for yeshuos, using each act of Chesed Shel Emes as a zechus.

I would like to thank Shimon Goldman from the Chevra Kadisha for installing this matzeivah. His work brings dignity to those who can no longer ask for it themselves.

Help Continue This Chesed Shel Emes

So far, I have been involved in restoring over 350 kevarim, with a goal of reaching 400 matzeivos by Gimmel Tammuz, IY”H.

But this work cannot continue alone.

Each kever restored requires care, time, and resources. Each matzeivah is another Yid being brought back into remembrance.

Current Projects

Matzeivah installation: $1,500

Restoration project (47 kevarim on Yud-Gimmel Iyar): $4,500

Every contribution directly helps bring dignity to a niftar who has no one else.

Tehillim Service – L’iluy Nishmas & Yeshuos

I also offer to recite the entire Sefer Tehillim at a kever in the same bais HaChaim of the Ohel for $150, for yahrtzeit, refuah sheleimah, shidduch, parnassah, or other personal needs.

To Participate in This Mitzvah

Zechusim are not measured in size—but in sincerity.

Every donation helps restore a name, a kever, and a dignity that should never be lost.

PLEASE DONATE

For donation purposes only

Zelle: [email protected]

Cash App: 516-474-5846

PayPal & Venmo: 516.474.5846

For credit card please call: 516-474-5846

Lamplighters Podcast: The Question That Changed Their Shlichus

In Episode 65 of Lamplighters: Stories From Chabad Emissaries On The Jewish Frontier, reporter/producer Gary Waleik presents the story of Rabbi Peretz and Rebbetzin Chanie Chein, Chabad emissaries to Brandeis University in Waltham, Massachusetts. The Cheins’ shlichus includes campus outreach, of course. But it also includes a dynamic new program, an approach to inner work modeled on a famous Maamer of the Lubavitcher Rebbe.   

Lamplighters: Stories From Chabad Emissaries On The Jewish Frontier is producing a series of moving, beautifully produced, sound-rich and often surprising stories of Chabad shluchim and the people they inspire in every corner of the world. 

Listen and subscribe at www.Lubavitch.com/podcast and on all major podcast platforms.

To pitch a story for our podcast about Chabad emissaries or for dedication/sponsorship opportunities, email us at [email protected].

As Chassidim around the world prepare to mark Gimmel Tammuz, Rabbi Chaim Fogelman has released a moving song, “The Ohel,” a powerful expression of the profound bond that continues to unite Jews with the Rebbe.

Written, composed, and performed by Rabbi Fogelman, the song captures the emotions experienced by countless visitors who journey to the Ohel seeking inspiration, guidance, blessing, and connection. Through its stirring melody and heartfelt lyrics, “The Ohel” reflects the timeless message that the Rebbe’s influence remains alive and accessible to every Jew.

Released specifically in honor of Gimmel Tammuz 5786, the song serves as both a personal reflection and a communal anthem for those who draw strength from the Rebbe’s teachings and vision. The music evokes the atmosphere of standing at the Ohel, the holy resting place of the Rebbe, where individuals from all walks of life come to pray, reflect, and renew their commitment to Torah, mitzvos, and acts of goodness and kindness.

“Gimmel Tammuz is a time when Chassidim strive to strengthen their connection to the Rebbe and recommit themselves to carrying his mission forward,” said Rabbi Fogelman. “My hope is that this song helps listeners feel that connection and inspires them to bring the Rebbe’s teachings into their daily lives.”

Listen to “The Ohel” on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and 24six.
Youtube

As the worldwide Chabad-Lubavitch community reflects on the Rebbe’s enduring impact, this new release offers a meaningful soundtrack for the season, reminding listeners that the Rebbe’s guidance, inspiration, and love for every Jew continue to resonate today.

Listen to “The Ohel” on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and 24six.

A Bris and a Bar Mitzvah at 66

A beautiful and inspiring moment took place at a recent Bris Milah hosted by Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz of Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Florida

Joining the celebration were renowned Mohel & Shliach Rabbi Yochanan Klein, Shliach Rabbi Sholom Katz and Shliach Rabbi Yossi Korf, as family and friends gathered to welcome a precious Jewish child into the covenant of Avraham Avinu.

During the Bris, Rabbi Minkowicz spoke with the baby’s grandfather, who had traveled all the way from Israel to share in this special simcha. In the course of their conversation, Rabbi Minkowicz asked him if he had ever put on Tefillin. To everyone’s surprise, the grandfather replied that he never had.

Seizing the opportunity to create an unforgettable mitzvah moment, Rabbi Minkowicz helped him put on Tefillin for the very first time. At 66 years old, the grandfather not only celebrated the Bris of his grandson, but also experienced a personal milestone—his own spiritual “Bar Mitzvah” moment.

What began as a celebration of a new generation entering the covenant became a powerful reminder that it is never too late to connect with one’s Jewish heritage and perform a mitzvah for the first time.

A truly moving and memorable day for the entire family.

This article is brought to you by the editorial team of JLI’s Living Jewish series, which has recently released The Complete Guide to Keeping Kosher, as previously reported on COLlive. 

My lunch at the office is whatever my wife packed from last night’s leftovers. My coworkers, on the other hand, are creatures of habit—they eat the same yogurt granola and cheese toasts every day. Some days I can happily pull up a chair. Other days I’m the outlier with a meaty leftover, and I take my plate to an empty corner and let Rabbi Dinerman’s podcast keep me company. Today, though, I left my earbuds at home. And of course, today I’ve got a container of chicken and quinoa salad. So now what? Do I really have to sit alone in silence?

The good news is that there are options. But first, let’s understand the issue.

What’s the problem with eating my meaty lunch at the dairy office table?

Chazal instituted a rabbinic prohibition against two people eating milchig and fleishig at the same table. The concern is that someone might absentmindedly reach over and take a bite of the other person’s food and end up inadvertently consuming meat with dairy.

Interestingly, this concern is unique to meat and dairy. An observant Jew may sit at the same table as a non-Jew eating nonkosher food because we’re naturally on guard against nonkosher items. With meat and dairy, though, each one is permitted on its own, and since you’re used to sharing with friends, it’s easier to slip up.

So besides sitting with my non-Jewish coworkers, what are my options?

Several. If any one of the following applies, you’re permitted to eat together:

• The two of you are seated far enough apart that you can’t reach each other’s plates.
• You’re each eating on your own place mat.
• You wouldn’t feel comfortable helping yourself to the other person’s food anyway (which can apply with coworkers you don’t know well).
• You place a heker—a reminder object—on the table between you.

What counts as a heker****?

The heker has to be either something unusual for the table or something moved from its normal position, and it has to be of noticeable height. It could be a coworker’s fidget toy parked between you, a stapler grabbed from a nearby desk, or even a tissue box turned on its side. The point is that it catches your eye and reminds you that someone across from you is eating the opposite type.

What if I ate fleishigs earlier and now I just want to grab a pareve snack at their table?

If you’re within the six-hour waiting period after eating meat, you can still sit at the same table as someone eating dairy, as long as you yourself are only eating pareve food. The prohibition is about two people actively eating opposing types—not about who ate what earlier in the day.

What if I missed lunch so I’m eating alone, but there’s leftover Rosh Chodesh cheesecake on the table?

Even when you’re by yourself, you shouldn’t eat meat at a table with dairy items on it. Clear off the dairy before you start. If for some reason you can’t move it, you can still eat the meat as long as the dairy items are far enough away to be out of reach.

So next time you walk into the lunchroom with leftover schnitzel and everyone else has pizza, you don’t have to retreat to the corner. Slide your briefcase (or whatever’s around) to the middle of the table, sit down, and join the conversation.

The first volume of Living Jewish: The Complete Guide to Keeping Kosher is available now at Hamafitz and Judaica World. 

If you have a question you’d like to submit, email us at [email protected].

Note: The Halachic rulings in this article were reviewed by Bais Hora’ah Chabad.

CBDChabad Sydney Expands Weekly Lunch & Learn Network Across Sydney CBD with Launch of Barangaroo Program

CBDChabad Sydney has successfully completed a trial Lunch & Learn session at Tower 2, Westpac HQ, Barangaroo, paving the way for the launch of a new weekly Thursday gathering serving professionals working in Sydney’s western CBD.

The initiative forms part of CBDChabad Sydney’s ongoing effort to make Jewish learning, networking and community accessible throughout the city and downtown area, providing local residents, Jewish professionals and members of the wider Australian community with opportunities to connect, learn and build meaningful relationships during the workday.

The Barangaroo program completes a city-wide network of weekly Lunch & Learn gatherings, with CBDChabad now serving four key CBD districts:

• Monday: Surry Hills
• Tuesday: Chifley Square & the Financial District
• Wednesday: Central & Hyde Park Precinct
• Thursday: Barangaroo

“Wherever you work or live in and around Sydney’s CBD, there is now a regular opportunity within walking distance to connect with others, engage in meaningful learning and strengthen community,” said Rabbi Danny Yaffe, Director of CBDChabad Sydney.

The Barangaroo trial brought together professionals and community members from across the precinct and surrounding CBD for an hour of learning, networking and connection.

CBDChabad expressed its gratitude to Kelly Benson and Westpac for helping facilitate the initiative and supporting the establishment of a welcoming community presence within Barangaroo.

The expansion comes at a time when many communities are seeking practical ways to strengthen social connection and resilience.

“In light of everything our community has experienced in recent years, our response is not withdrawal, but engagement. Not isolation, but connection. Not fear, but community,” Rabbi Yaffe said.

Weekly Lunch & Learn sessions are open to local residents, Jewish professionals and members of the wider Australian community throughout the Sydney CBD and surrounding areas.

For further information, visit CBDChabad Sydney

Getting Central Africa’s Rabbis Into One Room Isn’t Easy

by Shloimy Galperin – chabad.org

It took some of the conference-goers two flights and a layover in Europe just to get there. One flew from his home in Abuja, Nigeria to Paris and then on to Kinshasa, the capital and largest city in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Another took the Accra to Amsterdam flight, before turning around and flying to Kinshasa.

That’s just how it works when you’re a rabbi in Central Africa, where getting from one place to another isn’t always a straight line.

But make it there they did, all 11 Chabad-Lubavitch emissaries representing 11 Central African countries from Ivory Coast to Tanzania, Ghana to Zambia, for their conference of rabbis in Kinshasa. On Tuesday May 26 they finally met—together for the first time on African soil—celebrating an occasion worth the lengthy journey: 35 years of Chabad of Central Africa.

The occasion was marked on the rooftop of the Sheraton Kinshasa, drawing diplomats, community members, distinguished guests, friends of Chabad, and, somewhere in the middle of it all, colleagues who hadn’t seen each other in years.

Ambassador-at-Large Antoine Ghonda Mangalibi spoke on behalf of President of the DRC Félix Tshisekedi. “Your work goes beyond religious boundaries,” he said. “It touches something more universal: human dignity, respect for others, the transmission of knowledge, and the light of faith.”

Rabbi Shlomo Bentolila addresses the celebration.

Humble Beginnings

Rabbi Shlomo Bentolila and his late wife, Myriam, received the blessings of the Rebbe—Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory—to establish Chabad-Lubavitch of Central Africa on the second-to-last night of Chanukah 1990. They settled in Kinshasa, then Zaire, today Congo, less than a month later.

Life in the Congo wasn’t always easy, especially in the beginning. The Bentolilas headed out to Kinshasa with little fanfare in an age before widespread internet. For a while, they lived in a tiny two-bedroom apartment before moving into a larger and more secure home in the synagogue compound. The country was plagued by electric blackouts, and even once they got a generator, there was no guarantee it wouldn’t blow.

Over time they built a beautiful Jewish community in Kinshasa, Myriam focusing on education and Rabbi Bentolila balancing his responsibilities in the Congo with reaching out to Jews in the rest of Central Africa.

The Bentolilas with three of their children in Kinshasa, late 1990s. The couple left for the Congo with little fanfare and in the beginning the only way she could stay in touch with her family was via pay phone. (Credit: Bentolila family)

Every holiday season, Bentolila would draft rabbinical students to lead services and organize Passover seders in countries across the continent, in the process discovering Jews in even the remotest parts of Africa. Bentolila would maintain and develop relationships with all the Jews the young rabbis found, and when the need for a full-time rabbi in a location became a necessity, he would dispatch a young couple to build a permanent Chabad center.

Rabbi Israel Uzan was one of those student rabbis. Today he lives in Abuja where he directs, together with his wife Haya, Chabad of Nigeria.

“These years of rabbinical students and Chabad of Central Africa’s outreach allowed the Jews of Nigeria to become familiar with Chabad,” he says. “Because of this foundation, they already knew what to expect from Chabad: the same warm and uplifting atmosphere they tasted during the festivals.”

He and his wife moved to Nigeria in 2011, and were joined by Rabbi Mendy and Mazal Sternbach in neighboring Lagos nine years later.

Rabbi Noach and Alti Majesky first visited Accra, Ghana, during Chanukah of 2014, and returned four months later to lead a community Passover Seder. Seeing how much their presence and service was needed, they stayed.

During the workshops at the conference, the rabbis heard and learned from their colleagues, some of whom they’d never met before.

Today, they lead a community of hundreds of Jews—Israeli expats, American and European businesspeople, and everything in between—guests filling the Chabad center every Shabbat. Their Jewish preschool has dozens of children and hundreds of alumni. They also run a kosher store inside the center, with containers with kosher food and Judaic supplies coming in regularly from Israel.

“The logistics of life are difficult,” Majesky says. “We have to import everything, but it’s worth it. Every year, there are more families joining the community.”

Two years ago, Chabad of Ghana purchased a property. Construction is underway on a permanent facility, a $3 million project that the community is largely funding itself.

What began as a single Chabad House in Kinshasa has, over 35years, grown into eleven permanent Chabad centers across ten countries: the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria, Angola, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, Kenya, and Tanzania. Each center serves as a full hub of Jewish life, synagogues, Torah classes, educational programs for adults and children, youth activities, kosher facilities, mikvahs, holiday celebrations, lifecycle events, and a welcoming home for residents, businesspeople, diplomats, travelers alike.

Coming Together

The continent’s geography does not always make things convenient.

“People don’t realize that Africa is a continent, and assume all the emissaries here are nearby,” says Majesky. “But it’s hard to see each other in person. At the conference, there were colleagues I met for the first time because travel is so difficult, and there are visas required too.”

But once they were there, something clicked. They all shared common experiences: the same power outages, the same embassy negotiations, the same everyday struggles and successes.

Workshops over the two-and-a-half days covered everything Chabad emissaries deal with: education, youth programming, community development, security, fundraising and outreach approaches specific to the African context.

A highlight of the conference was the announcement of a new Chabad center opening in Senegal, another young couple soon to establish a permanent Jewish presence in a country that has never had one.

From the Jersey Shore to São Paulo, Jewish Teens Unplugged for a Shabbos Together

Lucy Volfson powered off her phone Friday afternoon. She didn’t see it again until well after dark the next night.

“It gave me a lot of time to sit quietly, to reflect, to be alone with my thoughts,” said the teen from Roslyn, New York.

Lucy was one of dozens of teens at the Long Island Regional Shabbaton in late May. It was one of several CTeen regional Shabbatons this spring that brought Jewish teens from neighboring towns together close to home, from a boardwalk in New Jersey to a soccer museum in Brazil.

The season opened the weekend of May 15, with two Shabbatons running at once on opposite ends of the hemisphere.

In São Paulo, Brazil, 35 teens from two chapters gathered for “Shabbat Across Brazil,” led by CTeen Noach Adventures. Between Shabbos meals and davening, they rode bikes through Ibirapuera Park, raced the clock at an escape room, and toured the city’s top attractions.

The same weekend, teens from five chapters met in Atlantic City, New Jersey, for a Shabbaton at the shore, hosted by CTeen of Atlantic County. They traveled from across the region, including south Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and beyond.

The weekend started on the water with a tiki boat cruise and a stroll down the Atlantic City boardwalk. Over Shabbos, teens led their own Teen Talks, taking turns sharing personal stories and the lessons behind them; they were also joined by Moshe Shinar, who fought to reclaim Jerusalem’s Old City in 1967. Motzei Shabbos brought a musical havdalah on the beach, followed by a mentalist show.

“These regionals bring together teens from neighboring communities who never would have met otherwise,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Executive Director of Merkos 302. “A teen suddenly sees they’re part of a Jewish family that stretches across the whole region, and they carry that pride back home.”

Two weeks later, further up the shore, 50 teens gathered in Long Beach, New York, for the Long Island Regional Shabbaton, hosted by Chabad of the Beaches. Throughout the weekend’s Shabbos programming, teens heard from IDF soldier and local legend Nissim Pinto and took an afternoon stroll along the boardwalk.

“This was different from other programs,” shared Hannah Janov, a teen from Long Beach, “It was a close community feeling, I got to meet fellow teens from all over Long Island, and that’s what I liked.”

Lucy had been on many Shabbatons. This was the most intimate. “I felt like I created a relationship with every person who was there,” she said. “I knew everyone’s name. I felt comfortable going up to anybody.”

Saturday night, a musical glow havdalah had teens singing and dancing into the night, followed by a raffle for those who had kept their phones off all Shabbos.

“The regionals connect teens with peers close to home, the same language and the same culture,” said Rabbi Shimon Rivkin, Director of CTeen International at Merkos 302. “Unlike the international Shabbaton, where teens meet others from across the globe, these friendships are meant to last. They often become the springboard for new Jewish programming in their own communities.”

The regionals weren’t all Shabbatons. On May 31, the Greater Florida region bused 45 teens from across the state to Busch Gardens in Tampa for a day of roller coasters, capped by a BBQ dinner before the long ride home.

With the school year winding down, many of these teens will head into CTeen’s summer programs next, from the Heritage Quest tour through Eastern Europe to the Israel Journey and CTeen Xtreme.

By Chaim Ber Kaminker

This Monday marks the sixth yahrtzeit of our beloved son, Shua Kaminker a”h.

Not a day goes by without thinking of him.

Shua was only eight years old when he passed after a courageous fight with cancer. But when we remember him, we don’t first think of the illness. We think of his smile, his determination, his love of learning, and the joy he brought to everyone around him.
He loved school.
He loved his teachers.
He loved his friends.
He loved being part of a community that cared about him and believed in him.
Like every child, Shua thrived when surrounded by people who saw his potential and invested in his future. The warmth, encouragement, and sense of belonging he experienced through Jewish education left a deep impression on our family.

After his passing, we asked ourselves a hard question:

What about children who lack that support?

What about families struggling to keep their children in Jewish schools?
What about parents desperately searching for guidance, resources, or simply someone to listen and help?
From these questions, Keren Yeshua was born.
Over the past years, Keren Yeshua has quietly become a lifeline for families facing educational, emotional, and financial challenges. To date, we have helped more than 40 families and impacted over 70 students across Chabad communities and beyond.

But Keren Yeshua is not about numbers.
It is about children.
It is about a teen struggling to find the right yeshiva.
It is about a child needing advocacy and support.
It is about a worried mother who doesn’t know where to turn.
It is about a family desperately trying to keep their child connected to Jewish education despite overwhelming financial pressures.

Every child matters.

What many don’t see is what happens behind the scenes.

A single case can involve countless hours of conversations, meetings, research, advocacy, and follow-up. We work closely with parents, schools, rabbanim, therapists, educational consultants, and community leaders to understand each child’s unique needs and help chart a path forward.
The investment for each student goes well beyond financial aid.

Every child has a unique story.
Every child has unique strengths.
Every child faces different challenges.
Helping them requires patience, experience, creativity, and genuine care.

Over the years, every family we have helped has taught us something new. Every student has deepened our understanding of the challenges facing Jewish children today. Every case has strengthened our relationships with schools, professional educators, mental health providers, and community organizations.

These relationships become resources.
These resources become opportunities.

And these opportunities help the next child who reaches out for help.

In this way, every student we assist not only benefits personally but also helps us build the knowledge, partnerships, and support systems needed to help many others in the future.
Today, many families are still waiting.

Parents continue to seek guidance, advocacy, emotional support, educational resources, and financial help. Some are trying to find the right school. Others are struggling to keep their children enrolled. Many just need someone who understands their situation and can guide them.

The need is real.
And it is growing.
As we approach Shua’s sixth yahrtzeit, we remember that though his life was too short, his impact continues to grow in ways we never imagined.
Every child remaining in school.
Every family finding hope.
Every student discovering potential.
Every educational opportunity that is preserved.
These are the living chapters of Shua’s legacy.

The best tribute we can give to Shua’s memory isn’t just words. It’s helping another child learn, grow, and succeed.
In honor of Shua and his yahrtziet, we invite you to join that mission.

Your support allows Keren Yeshua to stand beside families during their toughest times. It helps us provide guidance, advocacy, resources, and financial aid to children who might otherwise be left behind.

Together, we can help another child stay in school.
Together, we can help another family find hope.

Together, we can ensure more children receive the opportunities, encouragement, and Jewish education they deserve.
Because every child matters.
And every child is a world.

To support Keren Yeshua and continue Shua’s legacy, please consider donating today.

To partner with Keren Yeshua, please visit. If you know a family or student who could use assistance, please have them contact [email protected]

Picture of the Day

On the occasion of his birthday, Rabbi Yossi Michelashvili was presented with a special gift and cake from Oholei Torah in recognition of his dedication and generosity to the Yeshiva. Rabbi Michelashvili dedicated the beautiful Michelashvili Beis Medrash in memory of his grandfather, Reb Yitzchak Michelashvili ע”ה, creating a beautiful environment dedicated to Limud Hatorah and Avodas Hashem where tens of bochurim have spent the year learning, growing, and thriving in. The accompanying video highlights a year of unforgettable moments and accomplishments within its walls.

To celebrate the culmination of a year of learning in the Beis Medrash in conjunction with the birthday, a farbrengen will take place tonight in the new Beis Medrash with Rabbi Ephraim Mintz. All are welcome to join!

On the occasion of his birthday, Rabbi Yossi Michelashvili was presented with a special gift and cake from Oholei Torah in recognition of his dedication and generosity to the Yeshiva.

Rabbi Michelashvili dedicated the beautiful Michelashvili Beis Medrash in memory of his grandfather, Reb Yitzchak Michelashvili ע”ה, creating a beautiful environment dedicated to Limud Hatorah and Avodas Hashem where tens of bochurim have spent the year learning, growing, and thriving in. The accompanying video highlights a year of unforgettable moments and accomplishments within its walls.

To celebrate the culmination of a year of learning in the Beis Medrash in conjunction with the birthday, a farbrengen will take place tonight in the new Beis Medrash with Rabbi Ephraim Mintz. All are welcome to join!

In Its First Year, ‘Shiur-It’ Unites 140 Young Shluchos Around the Rebbe’s Torah

This past Shabbos, Goldie Wilhelm shared a Dvar Torah at her family’s table in Burlington, Vermont. Across continents, dozens of other young shluchos shared a similar one. It’s a Sicha from the Rebbe on the Parsha, the one they had studied together that Thursday on Zoom.

That is exactly what Shiur-it was built to do. Launched this year by MyShliach at Merkos 302, Shiur-it brought together over 140 young shluchos in grades four through eight from around the world for a weekly program centered on hiskashrus, building a personal connection to the Rebbe. The program runs on three tracks, East Coast, West Coast, and European, each with its own dedicated teachers.

For Goldie’s mother, Mrs. Chani Wilhelm, campus shlucha in Burlington, Vermont, the program delivered something she had hoped for. “It gave her a real Chassidishe boost and a community of shluchos friends,” she said. “She thrives in it.”

“For these young shluchos growing up after Gimmel Tammuz, a personal connection to the Rebbe is essential,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Executive Director of Merkos 302. “It’s what helps them understand what they’re part of, and the special Zechus. That’s what these programs accomplish.”

The program’s motto carries its mission: learn it, live it, share it. Girls study a different aspect of hiskashrus each week, then take what they learn home and share it. 

“The girls know exactly what Shiur-it asks of them,” said Esti Kamman, director of MyShliach’s Shiur-It Program at Merkos 302. “It’s not enough to learn Chassidus. You live with it, and then you share it. By Friday, they’re bringing it to their Shabbos tables.”

Classes meet twice a week. Tuesdays cover the many ways a person connects to the Rebbe: writing to the Rebbe, learning his Torah, visiting the Ohel, the Rebbe’s niggunim, Chitas, and shlichus. Girls fill in a personal journal after each topic, scrapbooking what they learned.

Thursdays center on the Rebbe’s Torah itself, with the class learning the sicha of the week using “Shiur-it cards” that break down the source, the question, the answer, and the lesson, so each girl walks away ready to share it.

This past Sunday, Shiur-it closed its inaugural year with a mother-daughter program across all three time zones. Girls from across the globe logged on together to celebrate what ties them, no matter where they live. Mrs. Raizel Rosenfeld, shlucha in Cascais, Portugal, spoke about putting hiskashrus into practice. The oldest class presented an original poem on hiskashrus they had written, and the program ended with a video of an encounter with the Rebbe.

“The reception for Shiur-it was incredible. Girls from a dozen countries log on every week,” said Rabbi Mendy Shanowitz, Director of MyShliach at Merkos 302. “The classes are interactive, exciting, and taught well. It shows just how important it is for these girls to have a Chassidus class of their own.”

For girls who attend local day schools far from a Chabad community, Shiur-it became their Chassidus class for the week. “I never have to push them to join,” said Mrs. Devorie Blasberg, shlucha in Las Vegas. “They’re always looking forward to it on their own. I think they forget they’re actually learning.”

Shiur-it’s weekly classes are taught by a dedicated team of teachers: Bracha Zelda Zellermair, Tzivia Gurary, Devorah Leah Mayzlesh, Leah Gorman, Rochel Wenger, Devorah Leah Lowenthal, and Shani Bergstein.

Walk into an office in New York, a Chabad House in Montana, a school in Miami, or a community center in France, and you may find the same thing quietly transforming the atmosphere: a continuous stream of the Rebbe’s teachings, stories, encounters, and inspiration.

What began as an idea inspired by the continuous video stream viewed by visitors at the Ohel has grown into a worldwide initiative. Today, more than 100 locations across 15 countries use JEMStream to bring the Rebbe into the daily life of their communities.

Learn more about JEMStream →

Displayed on a lobby screen, waiting room TV, office monitor, or communal display, JEMStream continuously presents carefully curated moments with the Rebbe—teachings, personal encounters, stories, and timeless messages that engage visitors throughout the day.

**
A Sponsored Opportunity for 50 Additional Organizations**

Thanks to the generosity of Nussi and Gittie Sternberg, 50 new organizations can now receive JEMStream at 50% off for their first six months.

The sponsorship was created to help more Chabad Houses, schools, offices, and community institutions bring the Rebbe’s teachings and inspiration into their daily environments.

The impact has been felt in businesses, Chabad Houses, schools, and community institutions alike.

Learn more about JEMStream →

“Whenever people come into the office, they are pleasantly surprised,” said Yechiel “Mike” Jaffe of Jaffe Capital in New York. “They sit for a few minutes to watch, and it changes the atmosphere completely. It’s one of the greatest things I’ve put in my office.”

In Marietta, Georgia, Rabbi Ephraim Silverman described how visitors often stop to watch while waiting for meetings, davening, or Hebrew school pickup.

“It creates a tremendous atmosphere for myself, the staff, and everyone here,” he said.

“We’ve had the stream set up now for a bit and it’s been amazing,” said Rabbi Menachem Korf of Lubavitch Educational Center in Miami. “Students and teachers have been commenting how much it has added to their day. I’ve even had one of our non-Jewish security guards asking me questions about something the Rebbe said.”

Drawing from JEM’s archive of thousands of video clips, JEMStream is continuously refreshed throughout the year with timely and relevant content connected to the weekly Parshah, Yomim Tovim, significant dates, and current events. Different stream formats, multilingual subtitles, and simple setup make it suitable for a wide range of environments.

As communities prepare for Gimmel Tammuz and seek meaningful ways to strengthen connection to the Rebbe, this initiative offers a simple yet powerful opportunity to bring the Rebbe’s presence into everyday spaces.

View the Sponsored Opportunity →
Setup takes only minutes. Organizations receive a secure streaming link that can be opened on virtually any TV, computer, or display.

More than 100 locations around the world are already participating.

See Locations Around the World →Reserve Your Sponsored Spot →

New Mitzvah Tank To Arrive in Crown Heights For Dedication at 770

by CrownHeights.info

A major addition to the fleet of Chabad Mitzvah Tanks in Eretz Yisroel is set to make a special appearance in Crown Heights this week, as supporters and friends of the Mitzvah Tank movement gather to welcome and dedicate a newly donated vehicle before it begins its mission of spreading Torah, mitzvos, and Yiddishkeit throughout the Holy Land.

According to organizers, the new Mitzvah Tank was generously donated following the extensive activities of the Mitzvah Tank organization with IDF soldiers stationed across Israel’s various fronts during the ongoing war. The vehicle will join the growing fleet operated under the direction of Rabbi Dovid Nachshon, longtime head of the Mitzvah Tank organization in Eretz Yisroel. The organization has spent decades bringing Jewish outreach, encouragement, and practical assistance to soldiers, residents of remote communities, and Jews throughout the country.

The arrival of the new tank comes as the Mitzvah Tank movement continues to expand its activities. Founded at the Rebbe’s direction, the Mitzvah Tank initiative has become one of the most recognizable symbols of Chabad-Lubavitch outreach, bringing opportunities for tefillin, Torah study, Shabbos observance, and countless other mitzvos directly to Jews wherever they may be. Today, Mitzvah Tanks operate across Israel and around the world, serving as mobile centers of Jewish life and inspiration.

In recent years, Rabbi Nachshon’s organization has significantly increased its support for Israeli soldiers, regularly bringing food, religious supplies, encouragement, and spiritual strength to troops serving on the front lines. The organization reports that its fleet of tanks has played a vital role in maintaining contact with soldiers and communities during periods of conflict and national emergency.

The new vehicle itself is a large, specially outfitted RV-style Mitzvah Tank featuring a modern interior designed to accommodate classes, tefillin stands, farbrengens, and outreach activities. After undergoing final renovations and preparations, the tank will soon be shipped to Israel, where it will begin active service as part of the organization’s expanding fleet.

Community members are invited to participate in a dedication event scheduled to take place at 770 Eastern Parkway – Beis Chayeinu, Beis Moshiach. According to the announcement, supporters will have the opportunity to tour the new tank, take part in the dedication, and share a l’chaim as the vehicle begins its journey toward serving Jews throughout Eretz Yisroel.

As the Rebbe often emphasized, every mitzvah performed by one Jew has the power to illuminate the entire world. With another Mitzvah Tank joining the effort, organizers hope the new vehicle will help bring countless additional encounters with Torah and mitzvos to Jews across Israel, strengthening Jewish identity and unity during a critical time for the Jewish people.

The dedication is scheduled to take place Thursday evening between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. at 770 Eastern Parkway. Community members are encouraged to stop by, celebrate the occasion, and show their support for the ongoing work of the Mitzvah Tanks in Eretz Yisroel.

From its beginnings in New York seventy years ago to Gan Yisroel camps around the world today, the Rebbe’s vision continues to flourish.

CGI Parksville marks the milestone with Seventy Years Strong, featuring alumni Avraham Fried, Benny Friedman, Bentzi Marcus, Boruch Sholom Blesofsky, and Eli Marcus.

This summer, Camp Gan Yisroel is marking a major milestone — seventy years since the Rebbe established what has become one of the most iconic Jewish summer camps in the world. To mark the occasion in a fitting way, CGI Parksville has released an original song titled Seventy Years Strong, set to the well-known tune of B’cho Hashem Chosisi, which was composed for the Rebbe’s 70th birthday in 1972.

The song tells the story of Gan Yisroel, tracing the camp’s journey from its very first summer in Ellenville, NY, through its years in Swan Lake, and finally to the current grounds in Parksville, where camp has been home for over fifty years. The lyrics capture both the fun and spirit of camp life — the sports, the trips, the friendships — and the deeper mission that the Rebbe had in mind: Torah above all.
For many alumni, those memories remain vivid decades later. Among them is renowned singer Avraham Fried, who recalls looking forward to Camp Gan Yisroel all year long. One of his favorite memories was performing in an acrobatic show on Visiting Day under the direction of a talented staff member, Yontil Lison. The highlight was a diving routine in which each boy leaped over a row of campers. By the time his turn came, more than a dozen boys were lined up, and after one mishap during practice, he successfully made the longest jump of them all.

Avremel also remembers singing during Color War a song composed by Rabbi Mendel Lipsker, today the head Shliach to South Africa. “Whether my team won or lost, I no longer remember,” Avremel recalls. “What I do remember is the joy and excitement that made Camp Gan Yisroel — the Rebbe’s camp — such a special place.”

Seventy years is no small thing. A camp that the Rebbe personally visited, named, and called his own “reshus,” Gan Yisroel has grown into something truly extraordinary. Thousands of campers have passed through these grounds over the decades, and the fruits of those summers are felt throughout the world to this day. As the Rebbe explained, a Gan is a place where beautiful fruit grows. That is Gan Yisroel — the garden where Jewish children grow, and have grown — for seventy years, and many more to come.

The song was written and developed by Shmuly Wudowsky, Leibel Kahan, Avrohom Goldberg, and Rabbi Mendel Denburg. A special thank you goes to Yoel Weiss for going above and beyond to produce the track. Thank you to CGI alumni — Avraham Fried, Benny Friedman, Bentzi Marcus, Boruch Sholom Blesofsky, and Eli Marcus who joined together to help Gan Yisroel celebrate this special moment in its history.

None of this would have happened without the vision and investment of camp directors Rabbi Avrohom Shemtov and Rabbi Yossie Futerfas, who made the project a reality from start to finish.

Now available on all major streaming platforms!
song.link/70yearsstrong

The lyrics of the song are presented below:
Seventy Years Strong — Shivim Shana Theme Song (T.T.T.O. B’cho Hashem Chosisi)

In Ellenville the seeds were sown / The Rebbe’s camp created / Then Swan Lake became its home / The grounds of Gan Yisroel
In Parksville now the garden grows / Its mission clearly stated / With all the sports and trips we know / It’s Torah above all
Chorus (x2): Kiryas Gan Yisroel / Where each child does belong / The Rebbe’s garden blossoming / For seventy years strong!
Kiryas Gan Yisroel / Let the celebration start / Shivim Shana / Ashreinu we’re a part
Like the branches of a tree / Camp expanded globally / A dirah for Hashem’s the goal / Each camper playing an important role
I gaze up at our flag so tall / Reminding me to heed its call / I’ll make sure to show what grew here / Its perois tovois all throughout the year

As Yidden around the world count the days of Sefiras HaOmer in anticipation of Kabolas HaTorah, many are taking the opportunity to strengthen the foundations upon which a true Torah home is built.

In that spirit, Machon Taharas Habayis is launching a new five-week “Hilchos Taharas Hamishpacha Review for Men” series, designed to provide clarity, review, and practical understanding in these vital halachos — together with the deeper hashkafic and chinuch perspectives that shape a Chassidishe home.

The weekly Wednesday evening program will feature respected Rabbonim, Mashpi’im, and educators addressing key topics relevant to married life, Sholom Bayis, and the responsibility of building a בית נאמן בישראל with kedusha and Taharah in a lasting and פנימיות’dike way.

The course schedule is as follows:

Week #3 — “Tahara Process & Vestos”
Wednesday, 18 Sivan
Rabbi Asher Noam Webb — Midtown Manhattan Kollel

Week #4 — “Yiddishe Chinuch”
Wednesday, 25 Sivan
Rabbi Mendel Yusewitz — Machon Taharas Habayis, Cheder Ohr Menachem

Week #5 — “Sholom Bayis & Hashkafa”
Wednesday, 9 Tammuz
Rabbi Yitzchak M. Einstein — Mashpia in Yeshivas Beis Dovid Shlomo

The program will take place Wednesday evenings at 8:00 PM at Itchkes Shtiebel, 612 Maple Street.

Organizers express tremndious Hakoras Hatov to all who help organize, publicize and support this vital cause. Please join, and consider supporting! Moshiach Now!

Zelle: [email protected] [please add in notes: for Taharas Habayis Review]

Live:

What If Every Visitor Met the Rebbe?

Walk into an office in New York, a Chabad House in Montana, a school in Miami, or a community center in France, and you may find the same thing quietly transforming the atmosphere: a continuous stream of the Rebbe’s teachings, stories, encounters, and inspiration.

What began as an idea inspired by the continuous video stream viewed by visitors at the Ohel has grown into a worldwide initiative. Today, more than 100 locations across 15 countries use JEMStream to bring the Rebbe into the daily life of their communities.

Learn more about JEMStream →

Displayed on a lobby screen, waiting room TV, office monitor, or communal display, JEMStream continuously presents carefully curated moments with the Rebbe—teachings, personal encounters, stories, and timeless messages that engage visitors throughout the day.

A Sponsored Opportunity for 50 Additional Organizations: Thanks to the generosity of Nussi and Gitty Sternberg, 50 new organizations can now receive JEMStream at 50% off for their first six months.

The sponsorship was created to help more Chabad Houses, schools, offices, and community institutions bring the Rebbe’s teachings and inspiration into their daily environments.

The impact has been felt in businesses, Chabad Houses, schools, and community institutions alike.

Learn more about JEMStream →

“Whenever people come into the office, they are pleasantly surprised,” said Yechiel “Mike” Jaffe of Jaffe Capital in New York. “They sit for a few minutes to watch, and it changes the atmosphere completely. It’s one of the greatest things I’ve put in my office.”

In Marietta, Georgia, Rabbi Ephraim Silverman described how visitors often stop to watch while waiting for meetings, davening, or Hebrew school pickup.

“It creates a tremendous atmosphere for myself, the staff, and everyone here,” he said.

“We’ve had the stream set up now for a bit and it’s been amazing,” said Rabbi Menachem Korf of Lubavitch Educational Center in Miami. “Students and teachers have been commenting how much it has added to their day. I’ve even had one of our non-Jewish security guards asking me questions about something the Rebbe said.”

Drawing from JEM’s archive of thousands of video clips, JEMStream is continuously refreshed throughout the year with timely and relevant content connected to the weekly Parshah, Yomim Tovim, significant dates, and current events. Different stream formats, multilingual subtitles, and simple setup make it suitable for a wide range of environments.

As communities prepare for Gimmel Tammuz and seek meaningful ways to strengthen connection to the Rebbe, this initiative offers a simple yet powerful opportunity to bring the Rebbe’s presence into everyday spaces.

View the Sponsored Opportunity →

Setup takes only minutes. Organizations receive a secure streaming link that can be opened on virtually any TV, computer, or display.

More than 100 locations around the world are already participating.

See Locations Around the World →

Reserve Your Sponsored Spot →

25 Sivan, 5786
June 10, 2026

Dear Friend,

Many can recall the days following Chof Beis Shevat, when the Rebbe and Rebbetzin’s personal home became the center of Lubavitch.

For an entire year, the Rebbe made the Rebbetzin’s home the center of his daily activities. From this sacred space, the Rebbe led the tefillos, distributed dollars for tzedakah, and shared words of Torah with people around the world—a profound expression of honor and gratitude to the Rebbetzin.

In the years since Gimmel Tammuz, the Rebbe and Rebbetzin’s home has continued to serve as a place of prayer and connection. Individuals and groups visit to daven, and minyanim are held there on special occasions throughout the year.

Now we have the opportunity to participate in something deeply personal and meaningful to the Rebbe and Rebbetzin.

Keren Hachomesh has commissioned the writing of a Sefer Torah that will be permanently housed and used exclusively in the Rebbe and Rebbetzin’s home. This Torah will become a lasting part of the sacred space that continues to inspire and connect countless visitors from around the world.

The proceeds from this special Sefer Torah campaign will benefit Keren Hachomesh, the fund established by the Rebbe in the Rebbetzin’s memory to support Jewish life for women and girls.

A Siyum Sefer Torah is scheduled for the 29th of Sivan, just days before Gimmel Tammuz.

You can purchase a letter, dedicate a parshah, or sponsor an entire sefer in this meaningful project. In addition to the zechus of participating in a Sefer Torah dedicated to the Rebbe and Rebbetzin’s home, your contribution will help support vital programs for Jewish women and girls, including hachnasas kallah, mikvah initiatives, scholarships, and other important communal needs.

We encourage everyone to participate and help make this unique project a success.

With esteem,

Rabbi Yehuda Krinsky

NYC Emergency Management Urges New Yorkers To Prepare For Extreme Heat & Thunderstorms This Week

The New York City Emergency Management Department (NYCEM) urges New Yorkers to take precautions during the hot weather expected on Thursday, June 11 and Friday, June 12. The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory in effect both Thursday and Friday from 12:00PM to 8:00PM. Temperatures are expected to reach the low 90s on Thursday and Friday, with heat indices up to 100°F degrees (37 Celsius) on Thursday, June 11 and heat indices above 90°F degrees on Friday, June 12. Thunderstorms are likely both Thursday and Friday evening.

There is a potential for isolated to scattered thunderstorms with localized heavy downpours mainly during the evening commute on Wednesday. There is a slight chance that some thunderstorms may be severe. Thunderstorms can also bring local winds gusts between 30-40 mph.

During periods of extreme heat, New Yorkers and visitors should use air conditioning to stay cool, go to a place that has air conditioning if it is not available at home, stay hydrated by drinking water at regular intervals, and limit strenuous activity, especially during the hottest parts of the day.

“The City works year-round to prepare for heat emergencies and help New Yorkers stay safe when dangerous temperatures arrive,” said New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Christina Farrell. “Make sure that you drink lots of water, use air conditioning or get to an air-conditioned space, and sign up for Notify NYC to stay safe and informed this summer.”

The Next Big Chinuch Idea: Global Chinuch Pitch Returns With $18,000 Reward

After a successful launch last year, the Merkos Chinuch Office is announcing the return of the Global Chinuch Pitch, giving mechanchim, principals, and school administrators the opportunity to share practical, impactful ideas that can strengthen Chinuch in schools and classrooms around the world.

Last year’s Chinuch Pitch drew ideas from mechanchim on the front lines of Chinuch, giving them a platform to present their vision, offer solutions to real challenges, and help shape the future of Chassidishe Chinuch.

This year, the Chinuch Pitch is back, building on last year’s momentum and giving even more mechanchim the chance to take part.

“The people in Chinuch every day understand the needs best,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, General Chairman of Merkos’s Chinuch Office. “The Chinuch Pitch gives mechanchim a platform for the ideas they’re already developing to meet real needs in the classroom, and helps bring those ideas out to children around the world.”

The Chinuch Pitch invites mechanchim to submit practical ideas that address real needs in Chinuch, whether in curriculum, classroom management, student engagement, school systems, or another area that can benefit mechanchim, students, and schools.

The winning idea will receive up to $18,000 in funding support from the Chinuch Office, helping turn a strong idea into real classroom impact.

Submissions are open to the public and close on ו׳ תמוז / June 21, 2026. After submissions close, a panel of judges will review all pitches and vote by כ׳ תמוז / July 5, selecting the top ten ideas by majority vote.

Public voting will take place on כ״ב–כ״ג תמוז / July 7–8, giving the wider community a say in which ideas advance to the finalist stage. Three finalists will then present their pitches live at the closing session of the Kinus HaMechanchim, taking place י״ד–ט״ו אב / July 28–29, where the final vote and winner will be decided.
All participants will be asked to agree to the official terms and conditions when submitting, and finalists should be available to present live at the Kinus.

Mechanchim, principals, and administrators with an idea that can strengthen Chinuch are encouraged to submit their pitch at kinus.chinuchoffice.org/pitch.

What If Success Doesn’t Look The Same For Every Child?

Let’s call him Yosef.

For years, Yosef heard the same thing.

“Sit down.”

“Focus.”

“Pay attention.”

“Stop touching things.”

His teachers weren’t wrong.

The problem was that Yosef wasn’t built to spend all day sitting still. His hands were always moving. Building. Taking things apart. Putting them back together.

If something in the classroom broke, Yosef already had a screwdriver in his pocket.  

(We’re still not sure where he got it.)

The point is: Yosef wasn’t lazy. He wasn’t unmotivated. And he definitely wasn’t incapable. 

He simply learned differently.

And that’s where Darchai Menachem comes in. Because at Darchai, we don’t educate with broad strokes. We focus on the yachid – the individual child.

We don’t ask, “How do we get this student to fit the system?”

We ask:

“How do we help this student succeed?”

Sometimes the answer is extra support. Sometimes it’s a different learning style. Sometimes it’s helping a child discover strengths he never knew he had.

And sometimes… it’s handing him a set of tools!

This year, Darchai launched pilot Trades & Skills programs, including woodworking, culinary arts, and other hands-on learning experiences. Students weren’t just learning skills. They were discovering what they were capable of.

The response was immediate. Students who doubted themselves started walking taller. They began seeing themselves differently, and it changed the way they approached learning.

That’s why next year Darchai is expanding its Trades & Skills Division, with new tracks in electrical work, plumbing, safrus, and low voltage systems. 

Every child deserves the opportunity to discover his strengths, and that’s what this program is really about. 

Not woodworking. Not plumbing. Not culinary arts.

Potential.

For 25 years, Darchai has helped students grow into confident, capable Chassidim and young men. Today, we’re expanding that vision, creating new opportunities for students to build confidence, develop practical skills, and discover what they’re capable of achieving.

And maybe, as you read this, you’re thinking of a “Yosef.”

A son. A nephew. A neighbor who thrives when learning becomes about his individual strengths.

If so, we’d love to meet him. 

Enrollment for next year is now open, and space in our Trades & Skills Division is limited.

Visit our website, schedule a tour, or reach out to learn more. 

DarchaiMenachem.com

It may turn out that the boy with the screwdriver was never a problem to solve…

He was potential waiting to be discovered.

_______________

If you don’t know a “Yosef” personally, you can still help students like him!

Support Darchai’s campaign and help another child discover what he’s capable of becoming.

His Track. His Way.

Help keep every track moving

What If Success Doesn’t Look The Same For Every Child?

Let’s call him Yosef.

For years, Yosef heard the same thing.

“Sit down.”

“Focus.”

“Pay attention.”

“Stop touching things.”

His teachers weren’t wrong.

The problem was that Yosef wasn’t built to spend all day sitting still. His hands were always moving. Building. Taking things apart. Putting them back together.

If something in the classroom broke, Yosef already had a screwdriver in his pocket.  

(We’re still not sure where he got it.)

The point is: Yosef wasn’t lazy. He wasn’t unmotivated. And he definitely wasn’t incapable. 

He simply learned differently.

And that’s where Darchai Menachem comes in. Because at Darchai, we don’t educate with broad strokes. We focus on the yachid – the individual child.

We don’t ask, “How do we get this student to fit the system?”

We ask:

“How do we help this student succeed?”

Sometimes the answer is extra support. Sometimes it’s a different learning style. Sometimes it’s helping a child discover strengths he never knew he had.

And sometimes… it’s handing him a set of tools!

This year, Darchai launched pilot Trades & Skills programs, including woodworking, culinary arts, and other hands-on learning experiences. Students weren’t just learning skills. They were discovering what they were capable of.

The response was immediate. Students who doubted themselves started walking taller. They began seeing themselves differently, and it changed the way they approached learning.

That’s why next year Darchai is expanding its Trades & Skills Division, with new tracks in electrical work, plumbing, safrus, and low voltage systems. 

Every child deserves the opportunity to discover his strengths, and that’s what this program is really about. 

Not woodworking. Not plumbing. Not culinary arts.

Potential.

For 25 years, Darchai has helped students grow into confident, capable Chassidim and young men. Today, we’re expanding that vision, creating new opportunities for students to build confidence, develop practical skills, and discover what they’re capable of achieving.

And maybe, as you read this, you’re thinking of a “Yosef.”

A son. A nephew. A neighbor who thrives when learning becomes about his individual strengths.

If so, we’d love to meet him. 

Enrollment for next year is now open, and space in our Trades & Skills Division is limited.

Visit our website, schedule a tour, or reach out to learn more. 

DarchaiMenachem.com

It may turn out that the boy with the screwdriver was never a problem to solve…

He was potential waiting to be discovered.

_______________

If you don’t know a “Yosef” personally, you can still help students like him!

Support Darchai’s campaign and help another child discover what he’s capable of becoming.

His Track. His Way.

Help keep every track moving

By COLlive reporter

U.S. Vice President JD Vance welcomed a delegation from the Chabad-Lubavitch movement at the co closing of the Living Legacy International Conference in Washington, DC, on Wednesday.

Vance hosted in his office in the White House 6 shluchim and supporters of American Friends of Lubavitch-Chabad, led by Rabbi Levi Shemtov, the senior Shliach in the capital.

Participating were Rabbi Zalman Levertov, Head Shliach of Arizona; Rabbi Yehuda Shemtov, Head Shliach of Bucks County, Pennsylvania; and Rabbi Avi Weinstein, COO, Chabad on Campus International.

Joining them were Eliyahu Kholodenko, CEO of Questrade, Canada’s leading online trading platform, and Mendel Rogatsky, CEO of Resolution, an advisory and management firm.

According to a participant, the meeting lasted almost an hour and was described as “important, substantive, and meaningful.”

The meeting was the final event of the conference held in preparation for Gimmel Tammuz, the yartzeit of the Rebbe. It focuses on his teachings and legacy, as well as the national and global efforts of Chabad-Lubavitch.

What if success doesn’t look the same for every child?

Let’s call him Yosef.

For years, Yosef heard the same thing.

“Sit down.”

“Focus.”

“Pay attention.”

“Stop touching things.”

His teachers weren’t wrong.

The problem was that Yosef wasn’t built to spend all day sitting still. His hands were always moving. Building. Taking things apart. Putting them back together.

If something in the classroom broke, Yosef already had a screwdriver in his pocket.

(We’re still not sure where he got it.)

The point is: Yosef wasn’t lazy. He wasn’t unmotivated. And he definitely wasn’t incapable.

He simply learned differently.

And that’s where Darchai Menachem comes in. Because at Darchai, we don’t educate with broad strokes. We focus on the yachid – the individual child.

We don’t ask, “How do we get this student to fit the system?”

We ask:

“How do we help this student succeed?”

Sometimes the answer is extra support. Sometimes it’s a different learning style. Sometimes it’s helping a child discover strengths he never knew he had.

And sometimes… it’s handing him a set of tools!

This year, Darchai launched pilot Trades & Skills programs, including woodworking, culinary arts, and other hands-on learning experiences. Students weren’t just learning skills. They were discovering what they were capable of.

The response was immediate. Students who doubted themselves started walking taller. They began seeing themselves differently, and it changed the way they approached learning.

That’s why next year Darchai is expanding its Trades & Skills Division, with new tracks in electrical work, plumbing, safrus, and low voltage systems.

Every child deserves the opportunity to discover his strengths, and that’s what this program is really about.

Not woodworking. Not plumbing. Not culinary arts.

Potential.

For 25 years, Darchai has helped students grow into confident, capable Chassidim and young men. Today, we’re expanding that vision, creating new opportunities for students to build confidence, develop practical skills, and discover what they’re capable of achieving.

And maybe, as you read this, you’re thinking of a “Yosef.”

A son. A nephew. A neighbor who thrives when learning becomes about his individual strengths.

If so, we’d love to meet him.

Enrollment for next year is now open, and space in our Trades & Skills Division is limited.

Visit our website, schedule a tour, or reach out to learn more. 

DarchaiMenachem.com

It may turn out that the boy with the screwdriver was never a problem to solve…

He was potential waiting to be discovered.

_______________

If you don’t know a “Yosef” personally, you can still help students like him!

Support Datchai’s campaign and help another child discover what he’s capable of becoming.

His Track. His Way.

Help keep every track moving

By Rabbi Shmuel Kravitsky

David Gold was a special Jew who I had pleasure of getting to know for the past year.

He was a doctor for many years before he had some medical issues of his own and was no longer able to work as a doctor.

He lived in Ashfield, which is in western Massachusetts.

And unfortunately, suddenly passed away last Shabbos.

His non-Jewish partner, knew enough to have the chaplain call me from the hospital.
However that was only yesterday and he’s still there. unfortunately she very little to no money to help with his funeral costs.

She herself is very elderly and would not agree to have him buried somewhere that she would not be close enough to come and see him.

BH. I have undertaken to raise the cost of the funeral and I’m asking for your help in this great mitzvah to help a yid have dignified Jewish burial.

We have 24 hours to raise close to $8000 for this.

Chabadnorthampton.com/donate
PayPal [email protected]
Zelle to 3474635075
Cashapp $Rabbishmuelkravitsky

Venmo @shmuel-kravitsky
I thank you in advance and will keep you posted once it’s all raised.

After the incredible success of last 5 years, Crown Heights Chaverim will once again be giving out “Look Before You Lock” cards to remind people not to leave their kids in the car.

Throughout the United States, there’s an average of 39 deaths a year from children left in cars.

This summer as a community service, Crown Heights Chaverim will once again be providing unique cards that easily hang from your rearview mirror to serve as a constant reminder not to leave kids in the car.

The cards, to be hung around your rear-view mirror, will be available at the following Crown Heights locations.

CHJCC 555 Lefferts Ave
Empire Kosher- 529 Empire
E&I Shoe’s – 399 Kingston
Kahan’s 317 Kingston
Klein’s Grocery – 504 Empire
Kingston Bake Shop
Hummus Bar -325 Kingston
Albany Bakery 339 Albany

Remsen Village
Makolet
999 Clarkson Ave

Chaverim is posting the following tips that can be helpful to prevent these tragedies.

1. Always “LOOK BEFORE YOU LOCK.” Get in the habit of checking the backseat every time you get out of the car.

2. The Waze app has a feature which reminds you to check for children after arriving at a destination. Enabling this feature only takes a minute and may save your child’s life.

3. Be extra alert if there are any changes to your routine. That’s when the risk of unintentionally leaving your child in your car increases.

4. Leave an item you’ll need at your next destination in the backseat, such as your cell phone, purse, or laptop.

5. Discuss the topic of hot-car deaths with every person who drives your child anywhere. This should include partners, grandparents, babysitters, friends and even bus drivers.

Crown heights Chaverim can be reached 24/6 at 718-222-1800

Zalmy Chanowitz Releases Debut Album, Melodies of the Soul

Young Lubavitch musician Zalmy Chanowitz has released his debut album, Melodies of the Soul, featuring ten beautiful slow niggunim.

This album marks a new chapter in Zalmy Chanowitz’s musical journey. After releasing many upbeat niggunim as singles, Melodies of the Soul focuses on slower, deeper, and more meaningful melodies that speak to the soul.

Released as part of the Pen of the Soul project, all ten tracks were arranged and produced by Zalmy Chanowitz. The vision behind the album was to showcase the beauty, depth, and emotion of these timeless niggunim through a variety of musical styles, making them accessible and inspiring to people of all backgrounds and levels of observance.

Inspired by the Rebbe’s teaching, “If you know Alef, teach Alef,” Zalmy uses his musical talents to share the warmth, inspiration, and beauty of Yiddishkeit with a wider audience. Through Pen of the Soul, he strives to present these niggunim in a way that resonates with listeners from all walks of life while remaining true to their timeless message.

YOUTUBE:

SPOTIFY:

APPLE MUSIC:

24/6: https://24six.app/preview/music/collection/19544/melodies-of-the-soul

Hecher un Hecher: Major Progress Continues on Phase 2 Expansion at Lubavitcher Yeshiva

Construction continues to move full steam ahead on Phase 2 of the major expansion project at Lubavitcher Yeshiva, as the growing Crown Heights moised continues building hecher un hecher. 

The Phase 2 expansion includes the addition of two new floors and approximately 20,000 square feet of new space to the existing building. Once completed, the expansion will provide much-needed classrooms, resource rooms, offices, and recreational areas to support the Yeshiva’s continued growth for years to come.

View the Flipbook Here: https://online.flippingbook.com/view/684878675/

Parents and community members continue to express excitement as visible progress becomes more noticeable week by week.

With construction moving steadily forward, Lubavitcher Yeshiva says additional updates will continue to be shared with the community as another major chapter in the growth of Tomchei Temimim becomes reality.

Lubavitcher Yeshiva thanks its Rebbeim and Morahs for helping make this expansion happen!

REPORT 2 (1)Download

By Sruly Meyer

Three years ago, I got a DM from someone asking if I wanted to be on a PBS home cooking show.

I thought it was spam, but I decided to call the number anyway.

It was real.

I did two rounds of interviews, only to find out the show was filming over Rosh Hashana. I had to decline.

After that, I honestly thought maybe because of Yom Tov and Shabbos, and maybe also because of kosher, this dream was never going to happen.

Then, seven months ago, I got another DM. This time from someone asking if I wanted to be on a brand new Food Network show.

I didn’t think it was spam, but I was nervous it would be a waste to even respond after what happened with the PBS show.

I’m so glad I didn’t ignore that DM.

I know I’ve been posting a lot about this. Maybe you read an article I was interviewed for, or heard me speak about it, but you really can’t imagine what it felt like.

Words don’t fully describe the feeling I had then, the feeling I have now, and the feeling I think I will always carry close to my heart.

I was at a very low point in terms of how a lot of things were going. I felt like the world had become bitter and tragic. The news alone can make anyone feel that way, but for me it was deeper.

I felt like I had lost faith in people. I was losing hope that good things still happen.

During the three months of interviews, and waiting to hear if I was advancing in the casting pool, I didn’t let myself believe for even one second that this would actually happen.

I remember it clear as a bell. Even an hour before I got the email, I had already been told an email was coming, and I still thought it would be a nice, “We really loved you, but…” kind of email.

Truthfully, even after I got the email saying I was officially cast on the show, I was in shock.

I was getting emails about wardrobe, flights, special requests, and all the details. Even as I stood in my closet trying to choose clothes, it still hadn’t hit me.

Forty-eight hours later, I was on a plane to California.

I still didn’t believe it.

I met the first cooks on the ride from the airport to the hotel. They were just regular people. Excited to be on this journey.

And I was sitting there, very aware of my yarmulka, my beard, the tzitzis strings at the side of my pants.

Wondering. What are these people going to think about me?

When we got to the hotel, I went to my room to put my stuff down. I was going to go back downstairs and start introducing myself to the other cooks who were already there, and then I saw my baseball cap on the bed.

I was about to grab it.

Maybe I should ease them into it, I thought.

I remember that moment now just as clearly as I did that day. And I decided I was not going to do that.

I came here to be who I am.

There were dozens of other cooks representing their families, their hometowns, their cultures, and even their religions.

I came as the kosher cook.

I was going to introduce myself as me. And that yarmulka on my head is part of me. Keeping kosher is part of me. My Judaism is part of me.

Yes, I made jokes. I laughed. I got to know so many cooks. We talked for hours. We got to know each other deeply.

They got to know me.

Not someone hiding a part of himself because he was nervous.

They got to know me.

And you know what? They were amazing. They embraced me. They accepted me. They treated me the same as everyone else.

People asked me if it was hard to keep that secret of being on the show. It wasn’t hard at all.

You know why? Because that was just a TV show.

The details of the show aren’t what  I walked away with. It was the people there and the experience.

The cooks. The time we spent together. The bonds we made. That is what gave me back that faith.

The ability to make a Kiddush Hashem on a scale of millions.

The strength to not try to fit in, but to stand out. To be me.

My personality and my Judaism, not separate from each other, but together.

When I see clips of myself on this show and I see my yarmulka, the pride that fills me is hard to explain.

When I see the other cooks, it reminds me of the time we spent together, and how those bonds continue to grow even now.

That I didn’t have to hide myself to connect with people, and that they accepted the full me, is a feeling that is hard to describe.

Maybe that feeling is my faith in people being renewed.

Maybe I can’t describe it because it had been gone for so long.

Is the world actually better since this experience?

Maybe not.

But the lesson I took away is that even when things feel hard, in the world or in your own head, good things can still happen.

And maybe when we focus on that, it helps us do things that actually make the world better.

One person at a time. Being our authentic and kind selves. Being proud of our Yiddishkeit!

For many dreaming of entering the world of Safrus, it has been just that: a far-fetched dream, with almost no way to materialize.

Finally, with Lemaan Yilmedu’s Safrus course, you will be able to gain your certification in Safrus and the knowledge and skills required to serve as a Sofer Stam in just a year’s time.

The instructor will guide you the entire way, ensuring you understand the material and are developing proper technique.

Lemaan Yilmedu will provide all the required supplies, including klaf, quills and ink.

The course will include studying each letter from the primary sources of Keses Hasofer and the Alter Rebbe’s Shulchan Aruch, the shape and form of the letter, the writing technique and dimensions. Student will also learn how to craft a quill, erase letters and work with klaf.

Rabbi Chaim Pape guides you the whole way, one step at a time, until the letters are truly yours.

Successful students will finish the course with certification from Rabbi Refael Dovid Banon, Dayan of the Chabad community in Montreal and an acclaimed authority on Safrus. You will be well-prepared to take the Vaad Mishmeres Stam exams as well.

Serious applications prepared to dedicate the time necessary to mastering the skills and keeping in close contact with the instructor may be based anywhere in the world.

Course Details:

Start date: 19 Elul 5786, September 1, 2026
Course Duration: 12 Months, 45 classes

Course Days: Tuesday
Class time: 7:30 – 9:00 pm

For more details and registration, click here

Chof Ches Sivan Farbrengen – 85 years

As Chassidim around the world prepare to celebrate Chof Ches Sivan, this year marking 85 years since the Rebbe and Rebbetzin’s safe arrival on the shores of the United States, Vaad Or Vechom Hahiskashrus invites all Chassidim to participate in a Farbrengen on Zoom, in preparation for Gimmel Tammuz.

The Farbrengen will take place on Thursday, 26 Sivan, at 9:00 PM ET, addressed by:

Rabbi Yossi Groner – Charlotte, NC 

Rabbi Moshe Gourarie – Toms River, NJ 

Rabbi Yosef Katzman – Brooklyn, NY 

Rabbi Shlomo Kaplan – Brooklyn, NY 

Rabbi Leibel Schapiro – Miami, FL 

Rabbi Asi Spiegel – Tzfas, Israel

Zoom Link: OrVechom.com/Zoom

The Rebbe refers to Chof Ches Sivan as “a day established by many for farbrengens and hachlatos to renew our efforts in the mission of spreading Yiddishkeit and the wellsprings of Chassidus outward.” (Shabbos Shelach, 28 Sivan 5749)

In connection with this special milestone, Vaad Or Vechom Hahiskashrus has also released a new video series to help you and your family explore the significance of this day and how it was marked in the Rebbe’s presence. Watch the series here:

For the full Chof Ches Sivan resource site, including learning material, English and Hebrew articles, a detailed overview of the Rebbe and Rebbetzin’s journey to America, and much more, visit OrVechom.com/28Sivan.

The Gimmel Tammuz resource site, filled with helpful resources to help you and your family prepare for this important day, can be accessed at OrVechom.com/Hachana.

As Chassidim around the world prepare to celebrate Chof Ches Sivan, this year marking 85 years since the Rebbe and Rebbetzin’s safe arrival on the shores of the United States, Vaad Or Vechom Hahiskashrus invites all Chassidim to participate in a Farbrengen on Zoom, in preparation for Gimmel Tammuz.

The Farbrengen will take place on Thursday, 26 Sivan, at 9:00 PM ET, addressed by:

Rabbi Yossi Groner – Charlotte, NC

Rabbi Moshe Gourarie – Toms River, NJ

Rabbi Yosef Katzman – Brooklyn, NY

Rabbi Shlomo Kaplan – Brooklyn, NY

Rabbi Leibel Schapiro – Miami, FL

Rabbi Asi Spiegel – Tzfas, Israel

Zoom Link: OrVechom.com/Zoom

The Rebbe refers to Chof Ches Sivan as “a day established by many for farbrengens and hachlatos to renew our efforts in the mission of spreading Yiddishkeit and the wellsprings of Chassidus outward.” (Shabbos Shelach, 28 Sivan 5749)

In connection with this special milestone, Vaad Or Vechom Hahiskashrus has also released a new video series to help you and your family explore the significance of this day and how it was marked in the Rebbe’s presence. Watch the series here:

For the full Chof Ches Sivan resource site, including learning material, English and Hebrew articles, a detailed overview of the Rebbe and Rebbetzin’s journey to America, and much more, visit OrVechom.com/28Sivan.

The Gimmel Tammuz resource site, filled with helpful resources to help you and your family prepare for this important day, can be accessed at OrVechom.com/Hachana.

Photos: Shraga Charytan

Talmidim from Cheder Lubavitch Morristown and bochurim from the Yeshiva who participated in the “Mishmar” learning program throughout the year enjoyed a special trip and BBQ this past week as a grand finale to a successful year of learning.

Over the course of the yeshiva year, talmidim and bochurim gathered each week after school hours to learn together as part of the Mishmar program. Through their dedication and consistency, the participants accumulated many hours of Torah learning and earned the opportunity to take part in the end-of-year celebration.

The group began the afternoon with a trip to Activate Games in Woodbridge, New Jersey, where they enjoyed a unique team-based experience filled with physical and mental challenges. The boys worked together to complete missions, test their skills, and enjoy an exciting and energetic atmosphere.

Following the trip, the participants traveled to the home of Reb Yitzchok Koval in Randolph, New Jersey, for swimming and an exclusive Mishmar BBQ.

The program concluded with awards recognizing the dedication and achievements of the participants throughout the year.

A special thank you to Rabbi Aharon Wilschanski, Principal of Cheder Lubavitch Morristown for facilitating the Mishmar program throughout the year, as well as to the Cheder Vaad and all the sponsors for making Mishmar possible. Special thanks as well to the bochurim giving up their own breaks to teach the kids, and specifically Refoel Dovid Scheiman And Mendel Amzalak for arranging it.

Yossi Green & Avraham Fried Release a “Tiher” In Orchestral Arrangement

From the liturgy of Yom Kippur comes one of the most powerful stories and emotional events in Jewish History. The Romans had decreed that ten of the greatest Talmudic Sages of all time be put to a horrible death!

One of the sages, Rebbi Yishmael ben Elisha Kohen Gadol, is chosen to ascend to Heaven and find out whether this decree could be annulled. Upon his meeting the Angel Gabriel and inquiring as to the possibility of annulling the decree, the harsh and unequivocal response was that the decree was existential and would have to stand.

To write the composition and for Avremel Fried to then perform it with the gut wrenching pathos and awesome interpretation he exhibited on this recording, in my opinion, is and will always be one of the stellar performances of all time.

The interpretive arrangement and orchestration of this composition by the incomparable Moshe Laufer completed the triad of Fried, Green and Laufer. Tiher was one of the great and rewarding challenges for the three of us.

לכבוד יומא דהילולא של התנא הקדוש רבי ישמעאל בן אלישע כהן גדול
In honor of the yahrtzeit of the great Tanna Reb Yishmoel Ben Elisha Kohen Gadol.

טִהֵר רַבִּי יִשְׁמָעאֵל עַצְמוֹ וְהִזְכִּיר אֶת הַשֵּׁם בְּסִילּוּדִים
וְעָלָה לַמָּרוֹם וְשָׁאַל מֵאֵת הָאִישׁ לְבוּשׁ הַבַּדִּים
וְנָם לוֹ קַבְּלוּ עֲלֵיכֶם צֲדִּיקִים וִידִידִים
כִּי שָׁמַעְתִּי מֵאֲחוֹרֵי הַפַּרְגּוֹד כִּי בְזֹאת אֲתֶּם נִלְכָּדִים.

(תפלה ליום הכיפורים)

New Lived Avodah Episode: Reb Reuven Donin — A Chossid Who Moved Boulders

Some Chassidim inspired people with warmth.

Others shook people awake.

Reb Reuven Donin did both — with the force of a bulldozer and the heart of a chossid whose life belonged to the Rebbe.

The third episode of Lived Avodah, hosted by Shlomy Segall, explores the life and fire of Reb Reuven Donin, known among Chassidim as “the tractorist of the Rebbe” — a man whose rough strength, sharp honesty, and burning ahavas Yisroel became tools in the Rebbe’s shlichus.

In his first yechidus, Reb Reuven expected the Rebbe to speak to him about lofty matters — learning, davening, teshuvah. Instead, the Rebbe asked him whether he knew how to operate large machinery, like a tractor.

Only later did it become clear: the tractor was not outside his shlichus. It was part of it.

Reb Reuven moved boulders — first in the earth, and later in people. Closed hearts, broken spirits, confused bachurim, Yidden who had drifted far — he pushed, dug, and broke through, not with softness alone, but with truth, with love, and with an unshakable sense of mission.

One of the defining stories of his life took place after his chasunah, when he entered yechidus and gave the Rebbe the key to his home. The Rebbe placed the key in his drawer and said: “If so, I am the baal habayis.”

His home was the Rebbe’s. His kochos were the Rebbe’s. His fire was the Rebbe’s. And everything he had — his directness, his strength, his tears, his love for another Yid — had one purpose: to do what Hashem and the Rebbe wanted from him.

This episode attempts to capture a glimpse of that life: the emes, the hiskashrus, the farbrengens, the ahavas Yisroel, and the avodah of a chossid who could not leave a neshama buried under the rubble.

For more stories and a fuller biography of Reb Reuven Donin, see the Hebrew book הטרקטוריסט של הרבי.

Available now on:

Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/5V9s1NNqIcC48h2V80GTTO

Chabad.org Takes Home Three ‘Jewish Pulitzers’

chabad.org

Chabad.org has won three Simon Rockower Awards, sponsored by the American Jewish Press Association. The Rockowers, presented on June 4 at the gala banquet of the AJPA’s 45th annual conference, are often dubbed the “Jewish Pulitzers” and awarded for excellence in Jewish journalism. This year’s ceremony took place at the Center for Jewish History and marked the first time that the conference, held June 2-5, took place in New York City.

Chabad.org won prizes in three categories, recognizing the website’s coverage of the Bondi Chanukah Massacre, the approach of the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory, to antisemitism through the perspective of the Australian Jewish community, and a stunning tribute to Rabbi Sholom B. Lipskar, a Chabad-Lubavitch emissary who spent a lifetime building Jewish life from where it was non-existent into one of the most populous Jewish corners of the United States.

In the Award for Excellence in Long-Form Writing category, Chabad.org’s Moshe New took home first place for “The Heroes of Bondi Beach,” a harrowing minute-by-minute account of the December 2025 terror attack at Chabad of Bondi’s “Chanukah at the Sea” in Sydney, Australia.

The article chronicled the attack, in which Chabad Rabbi Eli Schlanger and 14 others were killed. New’s article reconstructed the events of that evening through the accounts of those who were there, and in the judges’ view, accomplished what the best long-form journalism does: placing the reader inside a moment they could not have otherwise experienced.

A judge praised the piece in unambiguous terms: “This is a heartbreaking and terrifying account of the terrible attack on Bondi Beach. It made me feel like I was there, witnessing every second.”

Rabbi Moshe Kahn, director of Chabad Youth in Melbourne, Australia, highlights the history of the Adass Israel Synagogue to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Via X

The second honor came in the Award for Excellence in Writing about Antisemitism category, where Chabad.org earned second place for Mendel Super’s “‘I Don’t Recognize This Australia’: Persistent Antisemitism Rocks Australian Jewry.”

Reported before the Bondi Beach attack, the feature story documented a Jewish community increasingly unsettled by a surge in antisemitic incidents on the street, arson attacks on synagogues and Jewish property, and in public life—and captured the disorientation of Australian Jews who had long considered their country a safe home. Importantly, the story showed the community’s refusal to back down and hide away, echoing the Rebbe’s approach to darkness and hatred.

Rabbi Eli Schlanger

One of the rabbis Super interviewed for the story shared his community’s determination to double down on proud Jewish expression, and shared what would become his epitaph and legacy: “Be more Jewish, act more Jewish and appear more Jewish.” That rabbi was Rabbi Eli Schlanger, who would be murdered just 10 months later at the Bondi event he had organized. Those words, “Be more Jewish, act more Jewish and appear more Jewish,” would become a rallying cry for the Australian Jewish community, and a fitting epitaph for a man who had lived his life accordingly.

Rabbi Sholom and Chani Lipskar receive a blessing from the Rebbe during the weekly “Sunday Dollars” distribution. JEM via the Lipskar family

Chabad.org’s third award came in the category of Excellence in News Obituaries, where Dovid Margolin’s tribute to Rabbi Sholom B. Lipskar earned second place.

Over the course of more than five decades, Rabbi Lipskar, who founded The Shul of Bal Harbour and Surfside in Florida, as well as the Aleph Institute, the leading Jewish organization caring for the incarcerated and Jews in the armed forces, remade Jewish life in south Florida, transforming Miami into—in the words of the Rebbe—“a showcase … in the area of Torah education and [the] revival of Yiddishkeit.”

Judges described it as “very well reported and artfully presented,” noting that it “tells the story of a successful immigrant and builder as well as the story of the Jewish century.”

Since 2015, Chabad.org has won a total of 29 Rockower Awards.

Rabbi Lipskar (pictured, dancing during a Torah completion ceremony) landed in Miami with a bang, revolutionizing Jewish education in the Sunshine State.

By a bochur

There are few missions more sacred than chinuch.

Every year, countless mechanchim, mashpiim, maggidei shiurim, and talmidei hashluchim dedicate their lives to helping shape the next generation of Chassidim. They invest endless hours, sacrifice precious family time, and pour their hearts into the success of their talmidim. For that, they deserve our deepest gratitude and respect.

This article is not about them.

It is about a question that our yeshiva system must be willing to confront: What happens when a yeshiva decides that a bochur is no longer the right fit?

For obvious reasons, I prefer to remain anonymous. My story is personal, but I know that I am not alone. Over the years, I have spoken with many bochurim, parents, rabbanim, and askanim who have witnessed similar experiences.

Like many young boys, I entered mesivta at thirteen years old. I left behind a comfortable environment, close friends, and familiar routines because I believed in something bigger than myself. I wanted to grow as a chossid.

The transition was not easy. Being away from home, adapting to a demanding schedule, and finding my place in a new environment all came with challenges. But slowly, I found my footing.

I learned seriously during seder and beyond. I developed meaningful relationships with talmidei hashluchim, mashpiim, and maggidei shiurim. I embraced chitas, Rambam, mikvah before Chassidus, mivtzoim, and sharing Torah with family and friends before Shabbos.

For the first time in my young life, I felt that I was becoming the person I was meant to be.

At the same time, I often felt that parts of the administration viewed me differently. I was the type of bochur who asked questions—not out of defiance, but because I genuinely wanted to understand.

I remember one particular incident vividly.

After arriving a few minutes late to Chassidus, I was called over by the mashgiach and instructed to learn a letter of the Rebbe about the importance of shmiras hasedarim. The message itself was powerful, and I accepted it.

But afterward, I asked a sincere question.

I said, “In all my years here, I have only heard criticism from you. I have never once heard acknowledgment of the growth I’ve worked so hard to achieve. Wouldn’t bochurim respond better if they felt that the mashgiach’s role was not only to discipline them, but also to guide and encourage them?”

His answer?

“If you don’t like it here, pack your bags and go home.”

I did not leave. I accepted that perhaps this was simply a different educational philosophy than my own, and I continued trying to grow.

As my final year of mesivta approached, I met with the menahel to discuss my aspirations and my hopes for the coming year. Instead of discussing ways to help me succeed, I was informed that the decision had already been made that I would not be returning.

Perhaps the administration truly believed that another yeshiva would be a better fit. Every institution has the right—and sometimes the obligation—to make difficult decisions.

But this experience left me with a question that I believe our community must ask: When a yeshiva accepts a bochur, does it not also accept a responsibility for his future?

Additionally, the responsibility to take grave levels of sensitivity to protect the bochur’s exposure to feeling waves of uncertainty and C”V resentment!

Not every talmid belongs in every institution. Sometimes a transfer is necessary. Sometimes personalities clash. Sometimes another environment can help a bochur flourish.

But if a yeshiva concludes that a talmid should move on, should the process end there? Or should the hanhalah actively help him find the right place, advocate on his behalf, and ensure that he does not simply fall through the cracks?

A bochur is not an application file. He is not a statistic. He is not a problem to be solved. He is a precious neshama.

Baruch Hashem, I eventually found direction and continued growing. But I often think about those who are less fortunate—the bochur who hears that he no longer belongs, yet has nowhere else to turn.

The Rebbe spoke endlessly about the infinite value and potential of every Yid. Surely that message applies most of all to our own children.

This is not a call to weaken standards or eliminate accountability. It is a call for greater achrayus.

If we accept a bochur into our yeshiva, we should accept responsibility not only for his learning but for his future. And if the day comes that another path is better for him, we should walk that path with him until he finds his place.

No bochur should ever feel that he has simply been left behind.

May we merit a chinuch system that reflects the limitless ahavas Yisroel and faith in every neshama that the Rebbe taught us, and may we soon merit the coming of Moshiach now.

As Gimmel Tammuz approaches, hundreds of Bochurim from Yeshivos around the world are taking part in the eighth annual Mivtza Hanachos of Vaad Talmidei Hatmimim, dedicating time each week to watch the Rebbe’s Farbrengens, write Hanachos, and prepare themselves in a meaningful way for Gimmel Tammuz.

What began years ago as a small initiative has grown into one of the most successful and anticipated programs of the season. This year alone, participants have already accumulated more than 202,566 minutes of Farbrengens watched – and counting.
The concept is straightforward, but the impact is significant. Bochurim watch selected Farbrengens of the Rebbe and write Hanachos in their own words, training themselves to listen carefully, absorb the Rebbe’s message, and think deeply about what they heard.

For many Bochurim, it becomes much more than a Mivtza.

“The fact that I can watch a Farbrengen of the Rebbe for an extended amount of time is thanks to me doing Hanachos when I was in Mesivta”, shared a past participant.

The Mesivta program remains the heart of the Mivtza. With two participation tracks and a carefully structured format that gradually increases the length of the Farbrengen segments from week to week, Bochurim are challenged to stretch their attention span, sharpen their listening skills, and become increasingly comfortable engaging with longer Farbrengens of the Rebbe. By the end of the program, many participants find themselves able to listen attentively to Farbrengens that would have seemed daunting just weeks earlier.

Building on the success of the Mesivta program, the Vaad introduced a new Zal track this year, allowing older Bochurim to participate in a format tailored specifically for them. Featuring longer Farbrengens and more advanced Hanachos, the expansion has generated tremendous excitement and has brought the Mivtza to an entirely new group of participants.

Throughout the years, Mashpiim and mechanchim have repeatedly noted how the Mivtza helps Bochurim develop the ability to engage with the Rebbe’s Torah in a deeper and more meaningful way. What begins as a challenge to write a Hanacha often becomes a new appreciation for the Rebbe’s Farbrengens themselves.

This year’s Mivtza also introduced several new features, including weekly Hanacha voting and the publication of outstanding submissions in a Hanachos magazine, both of which have generated tremendous excitement among participants.

In addition, a new online photo gallery gives parents, supporters, and fellow Bochurim a glimpse into the learning and effort taking place in Yeshivos throughout the weeks of preparation.

Rabbi Tzvi Altein, Director of Vaad Talmidei Hatmimim, says the growth of the Mivtza reflects something much deeper than participation numbers.

“When a Bochur spends time listening carefully to a Farbrengen of the Rebbe, writing a Hanacha, and thinking about what he heard, he’s developing a personal relationship with the Rebbe’s Torah. The numbers are exciting, but what inspires us most is seeing Bochurim genuinely connecting to the Rebbe’s words and carrying those lessons with them long after the Mivtza ends.”

As the remaining weeks of the Mivtza continue, hundreds of Bochurim will spend thousands more minutes with the Rebbe’s Farbrengens, preparing for Gimmel Tammuz in a way that is both meaningful and personal.
For many participants, that may be the greatest accomplishment of all.

CanaDance – An Upbeat Dance Medley Featuring Canada’s Finest Talent

This action packed medley, “CanaDance,” showcases some of Canada’s finest talent in a nonstop dance experience that will keep you on your feet from start to finish.

Leading the way is Shmiely Zwiebel, with musical production that is guaranteed to blow you away. Joining him are three standout vocalists, Motty Rosenfeld, Zalmen Guttman & Avrumi Danziger, backed by the powerful sound of the Zimra Choir.

It’s about time the world got a taste of the incredible talent coming out of Canada.

Credits:

Music: Shmiely Zwiebel Productions

Vocalists: Motty Rosenfeld, Zalmen Guttman & Avrumi Danziger 

Choir: Zimra Choir 

Musical Director & Project Management: Anshy Eckstein 

Programing: Hershy Friedman

Live Sound & Lighting: DJ Elisha Soussan Productions

Stage & Decor: Yidi Itzkowitz

Vocal Edit: Chesky Fish – Studio Dynamic

Guitars: Ari Kohn 

Mix: Lipa Brauner 

Video Filmed & Edited: Momo

Additional Cameras: Avraham Alkabas

Marketing: SolBlum

Record Participation in Moshiach Chidon Finals

After six weeks of immersing themselves in the intensive Moshiach Chidon curriculum, Mesivta Bochurim from around the world were put to the test, successfully concluding this major phase of the Chidon initiative.

Last week, thousands of Bochurim worldwide sat for the Grand Final. Following weeks of absolute dedication to learning the Moshiach Chidon material, a record-breaking number of Mesivta Bochurim took the comprehensive exam, demonstrating incredible mastery and reaching new heights in their learning.

The excitement is far from over as all eyes now turn to the highly anticipated Grand Moshiach Chidon Banquet, scheduled for Thursday night, Gimmel Tammuz. The Banquet not only celebrates the remarkable achievements of this year’s participants but also marks the expansion of an ongoing revolution.

As the Rebbe has taught us repeatedly, learning and mastering Inyonei Geulah U’Moshiach is the direct path to opening our eyes to the Geulah. This knowledge empowers the Bochurim to actively influence their surroundings and communities, inspiring everyone to view the world through “Geulah lenses” and truly live a Moshiach lifestyle.

To ensure that Anash, Shluchim, and families worldwide can share in this momentous occasion, the entire event will be live-streamed directly here on our website. Tune in to watch, celebrate the Bochurim’s success, and get inspired to elevate your own learning of the Rebbe’s Torah to a whole new level!

This year’s Moshiach Chidon brought together Bochurim from a remarkably diverse range of Lubavitch Mesivtas. Though hailing from different corners of the globe, these Bochurim stood completely united by a singular, powerful goal: to deepen their understanding of Inyonei Geulah u’Moshiach, and through that, bring the Geulah to reality.

With this year’s historic turnout setting a new bar for the Chidon, we are confident in the Bochurim’s continued commitment and drive. We eagerly look forward to seeing them accomplish the ultimate goal of this entire initiative: Learn Moshiach, Live Moshiach, and BRING MOSHIACH!

Crown Heights Mechanchim Get $100 OFF Kapotas

ChinuchDeals is an initiative dedicated to securing REAL, significant discounts for our Crown Heights Mechanchim who dedicate their lives to Chinuch.

For this month, ChinuchDeals has partnered with Kapotas NY (located at 323 Kingston Ave) to offer an incredible $100 OFF all Kapotas.

The deal is completely inclusive of everyone working hard in the Chinuch field—from principals and classroom teachers to tutors and bus drivers, all positions are eligible to benefit from this discount.

A special thank you goes out to Kapotas NY and the ChinuchDeals supporters for stepping up to support our dear Mechanchim.

To take advantage of this massive saving, Mechanchim must register in advance.

 Registration Deadline: This Friday, 27 Sivan

 Sale Week: 9 Tammuz – 16 Tammuz

Please note: The discount is only valid during the designated sale week and strictly for those who have registered in advance.

Mechanchim, secure your coupon now at www.chinuchdeals.com

If you have questions, or if your business would like to partner with Chinuch Deals to offer significant discounts for Mechanchim, please reach out via email at [email protected]

Communicated

Ace Hardware on 600 Utica Avenue has always been a Crown Heights staple. Old-timers might remember the small hardware store set on a huge concrete lot, jam-packed with practical items to fix your house. In 2024, it was taken over by Heimishe Yidden and is now fully modernized, refreshed, and a pleasure to walk into. The Utica Avenue location, which once felt slightly outside the community, is now easily accessible and walkable for nearby East Flatbush families.

Ace has been serving customers for decades in both wholesale and retail, and its Heimishe owners are excited to serve the Crown Heights community. This year, when the venue for a large Lag B’omer party fell through, the organizers decided to have the main singer perform outside on a flatbed truck instead of on an indoor stage. They quickly reached out to Ace Hardware, and within minutes, their staff drove a truck over. The singer used it as a stage, and the event was a smashing success. Everyone had a great time, and the team at Ace was thrilled to be able to help out.

Before Sukkos, Ace offers free lumber cuts to make building easier and less stressful. And with the many snowstorms we’ve had this year, the store has been fully stocked with salt, shovels, heaters, and salt spreaders before each storm, making sure the community has what it needs in advance.

Ace caters to homeowners and contractors. The store carries a full line of kitchen cabinets and has a professional on-site offering design help. They are fully stocked with flooring options such as ceramic, vinyl, and click-in planks that are both durable and easy to install. Bathroom vanities and tiles are displayed in a wide range of styles. You’ll also find trusted brands such as Benjamin Moore paint, Moen kitchen and bathroom fixtures, and Stihl power equipment.

“We keep up with trends,” says Abe. “Out with the old, in with the new.” The original store, with its narrow aisles, dim lighting, and inaccessible shelves, felt like it belonged to another era. The updated 2020s layout is a breath of fresh air with its bright lights, wide and comfortable aisles, and range of updated inventory. The expanded space and 20-car parking lot mean a quick in-and-out visit, without circling for parking blocks away.

Ace is a reliable resource for contractors and building managers. They carry building-maintenance supplies and full-apartment renovation materials. Janitorial supplies, plumbing parts, and faucets are kept on hand at all times. With same-day Brooklyn delivery and a flatbed truck available, jobs keep moving without delays.

For added convenience, Ace Hardware is also open on Sundays, making it easier for busy families and contractors to get what they need throughout the week.

“We’re proud of what we’ve done with the store,” says Mendy. “We get constant compliments on the space, and we genuinely love working with the community and being part of it.”

A businessman loses a major account he had been counting on for months. A young woman waits anxiously for answers from doctors after a series of tests. A couple continues davening and hoping while navigating the challenges of shidduchim. Different stories. Different circumstances. Yet beneath them all lies the same question: How does a person remain calm, hopeful, and connected to Hashem when life feels uncertain?

For generations, Yidden have turned to the timeless concept of Bitachon. Countless shiurim have been given, seforim have been written, and stories have been shared about the transformative power of trusting in Hashem. Yet for many people, the challenge has never been understanding what Bitachon is. The challenge is figuring out how to live it.

How does Bitachon look on a Tuesday afternoon when a deal falls through? What does it mean when a child is struggling, finances are tight, or the future feels unclear? How does someone move from learning about Bitachon to actually experiencing it in everyday life? That question is at the heart of a growing initiative called A Bissel Bitachon.

The name itself reflects the philosophy behind the movement. Most people are not looking to achieve perfect Bitachon overnight. They are looking for practical ways to bring a little more trust, a little more perspective, and a little more calm into their lives today than they had yesterday. A bissel Bitachon. Not perfection. Progress. Where something is everything…

What has resonated with so many participants is the initiative’s focus on real-life experiences. Throughout the week, members of the growing community share stories of Hashgachah Pratis, personal challenges, moments of growth, and examples of Bitachon in action. These stories come from ordinary people facing ordinary struggles: a businessman navigating uncertainty in parnassah, a mother facing a difficult health situation, a family waiting for a long-awaited yeshuah, or a young adult searching for direction.

In many cases, the story is still unfolding. The challenge has not yet been resolved. The answers have not yet arrived. And perhaps that is precisely what makes the stories so powerful. They serve as a reminder that Bitachon is not something reserved for after the happy ending. It is something that can accompany a person while the story is still being written.

As the community has grown, so has the desire to create practical ways for people to strengthen their Bitachon beyond reading an inspiring story or listening to a shiur. What began as the sharing of stories has evolved into a broader movement focused on helping people integrate Bitachon into their daily lives.

One of the initiative’s flagship projects is the Bitachon Unplugged podcast. Featuring authentic conversations with people navigating real-life challenges, the podcast explores what Bitachon looks like in the middle of uncertainty rather than only after resolution arrives. The discussions cover topics ranging from parnassah and health to shidduchim, fertility, parenting, and relationships. Rather than presenting idealized versions of faith, the podcast focuses on honest experiences and the lessons people have learned while strengthening their trust in Hashem.

The initiative is also preparing to launch the Rely & Relax Journal, a guided workbook designed to help people translate inspiration into action. Through reflection exercises, practical prompts, and guided activities, participants are encouraged to identify their worries, recognize Hashem’s involvement in their lives, and develop habits that strengthen their sense of trust and calm. The goal is to provide a practical framework for applying the principles of Bitachon long after the inspiration of a story or shiur has faded.

Another initiative gaining momentum is the Bitachon Buddy program, which pairs individuals with a learning partner or chavrusa focused on strengthening Bitachon together. Participants connect regularly to learn, share insights, discuss challenges, and encourage one another in their growth. For many people, having someone to learn with and reflect with helps transform Bitachon from an occasional source of inspiration into an ongoing part of life.

Alongside these initiatives, A Bissel Bitachon continues to expand its network of WhatsApp communities, educational resources, live events, and practical tools, all built around a single mission: helping Yidden make Bitachon a lived reality rather than simply a concept.

The timing may be particularly meaningful. Many people today feel overwhelmed by uncertainty. The pace of life is relentless, and concerns about family, health, finances, relationships, and the future weigh heavily on countless shoulders. In that environment, Bitachon is not merely an inspiring idea. It is a source of strength, perspective, and emotional resilience.

Bitachon does not remove life’s challenges. It does not guarantee immediate answers or instant solutions. What it can do is change how those challenges are experienced. It reminds people that they are not carrying the world on their shoulders alone and that there is meaning, purpose, and Divine guidance even when the path forward is unclear.

That message appears to be resonating with a growing number of people who are looking for something practical, accessible, and deeply rooted in Torah. Not grand promises. Not instant transformation. Just a little more trust than yesterday.

A Bissel Bitachon.

And sometimes, that is exactly where meaningful change begins.

**Learn More
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To listen to the Bitachon Unplugged podcast, explore resources, join the Bitachon Buddy program, or learn more about the upcoming Rely & Relax Journal, visit:

www.abisselbitachon.com