Newfoundland News

News from the far east

BY RABBI CHANAN AND TUBA CHERNITSKY

WE STARTED OFF THE NEW YEAR, 5781, ON THE RIGHT FOOT!

Big news! We were able to secure a bigger and better location for our activities. The growing community and interest in Judaism required a bigger space and Thank G-d, with the help of international donors this is now a reality. More details to come!

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We came together for a short service with highlights of the Rosh Hashanah prayers on the 2nd day of the holiday. Rabbi Chernitsky explained the source and background for each of the prayers said and lead the attendees in joyous and traditional tunes all throughout the service.

Rabbi Chernitsky blew the shofar (for the first time this year, since the Shofar isn’t blown on Shabbat), made Kiddush and everyone sat down for a socially distanced Rosh Hashanah meal. Did we mention the brisket? Rabbi Chernitsky shared inspirational stories and a Dvar Torah showing how we can bring Rosh Hashana with us into the whole year.

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Not too long afterwards we came together again for Kol Nidrei. At the conclusion of the service Rabbi Chernitsky explained the source and meaning of the Kol Nidrei, ending with the story of Shimon Perez and the lesson of never to give up. We came together again for the Neilah service for the conclusion of Yom Kippur. The service was spiced with both Talmudic and contemporary stories together with insights into the prayers.

After the Mariv prayers at the end of Yom Kippur were recited, Rabbi Cherintsky made Havdalah and we sat down for the break fast meal. Not as good as the Rosh Hashanah brisket but there were no complaints!

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Due to COVID restrictions we didn’t host a Sukkot program but we drove around town with the Lulav and Etrog giving everyone a chance to fulfill this important Mitzvah which highlights Jewish unity. We look forward to hosting a Sukkah party in 5782!

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Another change due to COVID: We didn’t host the usual Menorah lighting at Bannerman park. Instead we put together a drive-in event at the Viking Building on Crosbie road, one of the office buildings here on the Sunday of Chanukah. About 75 cars joined the event despite inclement weather, snow! Present at the Menorah lighting were The Honourable Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador Judy Foote, Minister Bernard Davis representing Premier Andrew Furrey, MP Jack Harris and St. John’s mayor Danny Breen. The Lieutenant Governor light the Shamash and shared greetings, followed by Minister Davis, Mr. Jack Harris and Mayor Breen.

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Richard Rivkin was honoured with the lighting of the four candles of the Menorah and we finished off the ceremony with the singing of “Maoz Tzur”. Menorahs and candles were available for whomever needed. Definitely a night to remember!

Best Wishes for a healthy and warm winter!

We are open 24/7 (with social distancing practices). For more information you can reach us at 709-341-8770 or through e-mail at chabadofnewfoundland@gmail.com.