Melaveh Malkah highlights the essence of t’filah and the role of a shul

Congregation Ohel Rachel Degel Israel, under the esteemed leadership of Rabbi David Z. Sheinfeld, hosted its highly anticipated Annual S’udas Melaveh Malkah this past Motza’ei Shabbos, December 7, in their beautiful simchah hall. The evening was not just a gathering; it was a vibrant display of camaraderie, warmth, and achdus, qualities that have defined this k’hilah since my family moved around the corner, mere steps away. From my bar mitzvah days onward, this beis midrash has been a central part of my life, and this s’udas melaveh malkah was yet another testament to the ruach and sense of community that has permeated the corner of 68th Drive and Main Street for upwards of 65 years.

The evening’s program featured a heartfelt keynote address by HaRav Zvi Dovid Romm of Kew Gardens Hills, former mara d’asra of the Bialystoker Synagogue on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. Rav Romm has made a profound impact on the broader Jewish community, not only as a mashpia but also in his role as an instructor of Talmud at Yeshiva University’s Isaac Breuer College. His expertise and hashkafah have left a lasting impression on his students, and his work as the administrator of the Manhattan Beis Din for Conversions has further solidified his leadership.

 

The Role of a Shul in Our Lives

Gabbai R’ Avraham Chaim Spearman opened by grounding his remarks in this past week’s parshah, VaYeitzei, where Yaakov Avinu received assurances from Hashem that he would be protected. Despite Hashem’s promise, Yaakov still turns to t’filah to solidify his connection with the Divine. This demonstrates the essence of t’filah: not merely asking for needs but fostering closeness with Hashem.

R’ Avraham Chaim shared a poignant anecdote about the Steipler Gaon, who, even at the age of 80, continued to fervently daven for his children. This commitment underscores a profound truth: While Hashem does not require anything from us, He desires our closeness, which is achieved through heartfelt prayer.

With this foundation, R’ Avraham Chaim turned to the purpose of a shul, explaining that one serves as a modern-day substitute for the Beis HaMikdash, a sacred space where individuals connect with Hashem and seek blessings for health, sustenance, and guidance. It is a place of community and shared purpose, where t’filah becomes a collective experience, magnified by the presence of a minyan.

He highlighted the rich history of Degel Israel, emphasizing the influence of past leaders who shaped its unique character. Despite generational shifts, the legacy of these leaders continues to resonate, enriching the shul’s traditions and fostering an environment of growth.

R’ Avraham Chaim praised the members of the shul, noting their dedication to punctual t’filah, Torah learning, and fostering a welcoming atmosphere.

He also highlighted the importance of having a strong and principled rav. Drawing on a story from Rav Elyashiv’s writings, he emphasized that a rav should guide with honesty and integrity, even when the message is challenging. R’ Avraham Chaim expressed his personal gratitude to Rav and Rebbetzin Sheinfeld, lauding their wisdom, kindness, and commitment to the profound opportunities for spiritual growth provided by the shul’s robust schedule of shiurim and t’filah.

In R’ Avraham Chaim’s words, the shul is not just a building, but a vibrant hub of connection – with Hashem, Torah, and one another. It is a place where tradition meets the present, and where every member plays a role in sustaining its sacred mission.

 

Building a Legacy: Upgrades and Transformations

As the evening unfolded, there was palpable excitement in the air as news of some incredible hidurim for the beloved beis midrash were announced. A highlight of the evening was the recognition given to Mrs. Nechamah Biderman. In a moving tribute to the memory of her husband, a longtime mispallel at the shul, and her late son R’ Yisrael Dovid, Mrs. Biderman dedicated a stunning new bimah and mantel to enhance the upstairs sanctuary. Additionally, R’ Chaim Shimon and Mrs. Vatch dedicated a new downstairs bimah, and R’ Mordechai and Mrs. Schnitzler funded an amud to further enhance the downstairs m’kom Torah. These are more than just upgrades; they are a physical manifestation of the growth of the k’hilah. The new bimahs aren’t just structures – they represent the strong foundation of chesed and emunah upon which our community is built. This room is a space where learning, connection, and inspiration will flourish for many years to come.

 

A Touch Of Care

It’s often the small, thoughtful touches that make a place feel like a true bayis. I would like to acknowledge the seemingly minute yet vital details that Rebbetzin Rochel Sheinfeld arrranges on behalf of the shul— small acts that may seem simple, but are a reflection of the care shown in all aspects of Degel Israel since the days of Rebbetzin Zissel Margulies a”h. The Sheinfelds continue that tradition, ensuring that every corner of the shul reflects the respect and care for the klei kodesh and kehillah at large exemplifying the kedushah and commitment to the ongoing growth of the bais medrash leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.

The celebration was accompanied by niggunim and lively music provided by longtime member R’ Elimelech Stahler, whose melodies created an atmosphere of joy and spirituality. It was a true z’chus to partake in such a beautiful evening, filled with song, Torah, and a sense of kiruv levavos.

 

Honoring the Unsung Heroes

As the night continued, the program moved to recognizing the people who make everything possible behind the scenes. These are the individuals whose tireless avodah often goes unnoticed but whose impact is immeasurable.

Rav Sheinfeld was thrilled to honor R’ Dovid and Mrs. Burstyn, who have worked with m’siras nefesh to keep the schedule running smoothly. The rav acknowledged last year’s honoree, R’ Chaim Goldberg who had a large part in arranging much of the evening’s pleasantries in the role of Dinner Chairperson. Thanks is extended to R’ Yitzchak Rosenwasser who brought a taste of joy to the evening with a selection of fermented treats from his business, Savory. Embodying the very spirit of ahavas Yisrael was the final award recipient, R’ Zecharia Yoel Lebowitz, the hands-on problem solver, always available no matter the time or the task; if a light needs fixing, if there’s a plumbing issue, or any other unexpected challenge, you know whom to call. R’ Zecharia Yoel is Degel Israel’s go-to person, always ready to lend a hand with tools, expertise, and a smile, demonstrating a true ohev shalom ensuring that the beis midrash remains a place of peace and harmony.

 

Building a K’hilah

Since relocating from his congregation of two decades on the Lower East Side to settle in Kew Gardens Hills, and as his family contemplates aliyah, Rav Zvi Dovid Romm shlita, a beloved member of Degel Israel, was honored to give the evening’s keynote address. Rav Romm’s words resonated deeply, reflecting both his personal journey and the broader themes of Torah, growth, and community. When we gather as a k’hilah, community, particularly for events like the melaveh malkah, we celebrate more than the presence of a speaker or the enjoyment of uplifting music. While these aspects are significant, they serve a deeper purpose – fostering connection, reflection, and inspiration.

Rav Romm explained that his family have been part of this neighborhood for two years, and the warmth and support they’ve experienced have been unparalleled. “We arrived as geirim, strangers, and quickly became toshavim, residents, thanks to the care and openness of this community. When we moved in, it didn’t take long for the community to extend its hand. I’ll never forget our first Friday afternoon here: a knock on the door from one of the Stahler boys, delivering a pie and a bottle of wine from the rav.” This gesture encapsulated the essence of this k’hilah – a spirit of chesed, kindness, and inclusivity that permeates every interaction.

 

In our modern, fast-paced world, it is tempting to view a shul as a spiritual “ATM,” a place where we quickly fulfill our obligations before moving on. But a true k’hilah is more akin to a bank: a place where relationships are built, where members feel invested, and where interactions are meaningful.

Just as a bank teller knows his or her clients, we, too, must strive to connect with one another. A simple “Shalom Aleichem,” a warm smile, or an outstretched hand can transform the experience of a newcomer or even a longstanding member.

 

A K’hilah Focused on Torah and Growth

As the night drew to a close, the rav reflected on what makes this k’hilah so exceptional. It’s not just the building or the s’udos enjoyed together – it’s the people. It’s the baalei batim, mashpi’im, leaders, and the volunteers who come together to create something truly remarkable. It’s their dedication, the chesed, and ahavas Yisrael that defines Degel Israel. Together, they are building something greater than ourselves – a true beis Hashem.

The shul also hosts a variety of programming over Shabbasos. With the long leilei Shabbos, Friday night learning is encouraged, either at the shul or at the home of Rabbi Sheinfeld. Rabbi Sheinfeld’s dedication to promoting Torah learning is an inspiration to us all.

On Shabbos, the shul runs a weekly Chumash chaburah after the first Shacharis, coordinated by R’ Gilami Goldfeder and R’ Avraham Chaim Spearman. After the second minyan, the shul operates a “5-Minute Kollel,” offering members a chance to participate in brief but meaningful learning sessions that fit seamlessly into Shabbos day. Additionally, a Daf Yomi shiur is given on Shabbos afternoon.

Here’s to many more years of continued growth, unity, connection, and k’dushah. May we all continue to grow together in Torah, mitzvos, achdus, and may the legacy of those who have dedicated their time, resources, and hearts to this shul continue to inspire and elevate us all.