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Tu BiSh’vat teaches us profound lessons about faith and growth. Like the dormant trees in winter, our spiritual journey may seem static, but beneath the surface, subtle shifts occur. According to Rebbe Nachman of Breslov, figuring out where we stand in our spiritual journey, our avodas Hashem, is like trying to solve an impossible puzzle in this world. Not knowing exactly where we are spiritually is a significant challenge that we all face. Sometimes, we may feel a brief urge or a sudden desire to get closer to Hashem, but it often seems like nothing really changes. However, in those fleeting moments of yearning, something powerful happens – it’s like a gate opening in the spiritual realms. Hashem responds by giving us a burst of strength, of clarity, and a deep longing to break through anything holding us back, like blocks, fears, doubts, or confusion. This process, triggered by even the smallest moments of yearning, becomes a source of empowerment for our spiritual journey, helping us overcome obstacles and realize our spiritual potential.

Winter break in Orlando was a transformative experience for 20 students in the Emet Men’s Division. The six-day itinerary combined concentrated Torah study, energizing activities, and opportunities to connect with friends. Led by the dynamic team of Rabbi Mordechai Kraft, Rabbi Michael Fuzaylov, Rabbi Yakov Musheyev, and Rabbi Ari Hertz, the trip was geared towards those who have completed the Emet Leaders Fellowship and were ready for more advanced learning. “This trip was really meaningful to me. I learned a lot from the rabbis, established amazing friendships, and had some of my deepest conversations in a really long time,” student Daniel Abramov shared.

The Coalition for Jewish Values (CJV), representing over 2,500 traditional, Orthodox rabbis in American public policy, last week harshly condemned the introduction of S. Res. 504 by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) demanding a report on “Israel’s human rights practices” from the Secretary of State, which could then be used to withhold military aid as Israel combats the genocidal Hamas terror organization that, on October 7, slaughtered 1,200 civilians as part of it 18-year campaign to terrorize and destroy the Jewish People. CJV Vice President Rabbi Dov Fischer made the following statement:

In a letter last week to members of the Senate Committee on the Judiciary, the Coalition for Jewish Values (CJV), representing over 2,500 traditional, Orthodox rabbis in American public policy, announced its opposition to the nomination of Adeel Abdullah Mangi to serve as a judge on the United State Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. CJV explained that their objections stemmed from “Mr. Mangi’s past association with and well-documented support for the Rutgers Center for Security, Race, and Rights (“the Center”), and on his evasive responses when asked about anti-Semitic positions espoused by the Center.”

While we all wish that the IDF Chesed Center, and all the other organizations that are supporting our chayalim, will soon be put out of business with the end of the war, for as long as we are needed, we will be there for our brothers and sisters.

The Jewish Youth Basketball League, a dynamic initiative in a joint partnership between Esquared, Chazaq, Beth Gavriel, and ABA, has successfully concluded another exciting season. The league, which commenced in October, provided a platform for youngsters from elementary school through high school to not only enhance their basketball skills but also build confidence, foster teamwork, and most importantly, have a great time.