Community Corner

As antisemitism rises around the country and the globe, education is critical to combatting this scourge. Learning about the historic roots of antisemitism through the centuries and training teachers to empower Jewish students of all ages with knowledge and advocacy skills is the focus of a number of new programs at Touro.

Margaret Tietz Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Jamaica Hills was filled with the Chanukah spirit, both within its facility and throughout the community. Candle-lighting ceremonies took place each evening, led by the on-staff rabbi, Rabbi Zavel Pearlman, accompanied by delicious latkes and, of course, donuts. The halls buzzed with activity as family members, including grandchildren and great-grandchildren, joined in the festivities.

In February of last year, the Israel Chesed Center held the inaugural “Shabbat B’yachad Nenatzeach” / Israel Unity Shabbat, an extraordinary event uniting Jewish communities across the 5 Towns, Long Beach, West Hempstead, and Oceanside. Over 40 shuls and yeshivot participated, with 25 Chayalim joining these communities for a Shabbat filled with achdut (unity) and chizuk (strengthening). It was a powerful display of solidarity with the soldiers who serve Israel, and a meaningful experience that left an indelible mark on all who attended.

Orot celebrated its fourth annual Chanukah party on Sunday, December 29, at Ohr Natan of Rego Park, bringing together over 100 community members for an evening of joyous festivities and celebration.

In last week’s parshah, Yosef revealed himself to his brothers after not seeing them for 22 years, The pasuk states: “Vayomer Yosef el echav: Ani Yosef. Ha’od avi chai? V’lo yachlu echav laanos oso ki nivhalu mi’panav. – And Yosef said to his brothers, ‘I am Yosef. Is my father still alive?’ But his brothers could not answer him because they were left disconcerted before him (B’reishis 45:3).”