The Vizhnitzer Rebbe of Bnei Brak, Rav Yisroel Hager, held an emotional seudas hodaah on Monday night at his residence in the moshav of Ora, commemorating 26 years since he survived a devastating car accident near the entrance to Yerushalayim. The gathering was combined with a fundraising initiative on behalf of the Vishnitzer community’s Kimcha D’Pischa campaign in Elad.

Prominent supporters of the chassidus, who contributed substantial sums toward providing Pesach necessities for families in need, were seated around the Rebbe’s table for the special occasion.

Also in attendance was the Rebbe’s son-in-law, the Vishnitzer Rebbe of Beit Shemesh, who addressed the assembled chassidim. In his remarks, he reflected on the many kindnesses of the Ribbono Shel Olam over the years and spoke of the ongoing gratitude felt by the community.

Rav Yaakov Mordechai Hager, Av Beis Din of Vishnitz in Elad, delivered heartfelt words, his voice breaking with emotion. He offered a tefillah that Hashem have mercy on the impoverished and downtrodden, and that the chassidim merit to soon see the Rebbe restored in full strength and splendor.

Throughout the tish, lively singing filled the room, with the Rebbe strongly encouraging the melodies, especially during the singing of “Yesh Borei Olam.” He later expanded on divrei kodesh inspired by the elevated atmosphere.

In deeply moving remarks, the Rebbe recounted the details of the accident and the miraculous chain of events that led to his rescue. He reviewed the sequence of those days and expressed gratitude for the many individuals who stood by him and assisted during that critical period.

The Rebbe also spoke with visible emotion about the hospital visit of Rav Shmuel Wosner, who came to see him shortly after the accident.

At the conclusion of the gathering, following Birchas Hamazon, the benefactors approached to receive a special gift in honor of Pesach, presented as a token of appreciation for their steadfast support of the chassidus’s charitable efforts.