Shavuos Newsletter

‫ב"ה‬

First Coast

chabad June 2011 / Sivan 5771

infocus ponte vedra beach

Chabad Center in Ponte Vedra Dedicates The Aaron and Blanche Scharf Center for Jewish Life

education

The Un-Daycare our own Backyard

A Baal T’Shuva Amongst Us

Kids!

fun page

recent events

Lag B’Omer Picnic & Outing 5771 / 2011

Rabbi’s Notes

The Holiday of Judaism Many people are not familiar with the Biblical festival of Shavuot, it’s sort of “The forgotten holiday.” The lack of popularity of this sacred day, is perhaps due to the fact that there are no particular rituals that go along with it. There is no Shofar, no Seder or Matzah; there are no Menorahs or gift baskets associated with this day.

Shavuot seems to be fairly simple and not all that significant. True there are flowers; cheese cakes, ice cream, and even lasagna, but these are not really rituals; they are more like customs and traditions.

Be that as it may, Shavuot is in actuality an extremely important holiday, it is the culmination and peak of the popular holiday of Passover. As G-d said to Moses: “When you take the people out of Egypt you shall worship G-d on this mountain” – Mount Sinai - the mountain on which we received the Torah, on the holiday of Shavuot.

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Shavuot is in fact, the most essential Jewish holiday of all, for the entire foundation of Judaism rests within this day. It is the day we have become a nation - the chosen nation.

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Wherever the Jew may have been scattered, whatever language he may have learned to speak and whatever culture he has become a part of, he has remained uncompromisingly steadfast in his adherence to a higher set of rules – the rules of our holy Torah - as the lyrics of a popular song declare: We have existed so long, for the Torah kept us strong...

Indeed, it is because of our sacred Torah, which we received at Mt Sinai, on the Holiday of Shavuot, some 3300 years ago, that we are still around today. Through the ages it was sought by the children who were taught to follow it and repeatedly declare: I’m a Jew and I’m proud and I’ll shout it out loud, cause forever that’s what I’ll be..

So this year, when the Ten Commandments are read on Wednesday June 8, let us once again accept this gift from G-d, and recommit ourselves to the study and observance of our holy Torah. Let us continue to declare: “I’m a Jew and I’m proud and I’ll sing it out loud, for Hashem is always watching over me...

Wishing you all a happy Shavuot.

Rabbi Shmuli Feldman

Chabad of Clay County

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Cover Story

infocus

an Interview with rabbi Nochum Kurinsky, Chabad At the Beaches in Ponte Vedra.

Rabbi Nochum Kurinsky hails from Brooklyn NY and moved to Jacksonville in 1998 as a Student and then permanently with his wife Leah in 2004 just after their marriage.

He studied at the United Lubavitcher Yeshiva in Brooklyn and Morristown NJ, where he received his bachelors degree in Hebrew studies and Talmudic Law. He received his rabbinic ordination in Beis Menachem Rabbinical School in Manalapan NJ. Rabbi Kurinsky spent time assisting Jewish communities in Nashville TN, Milwaukee WI, Los Angeles CA, Johannesburg and Cape Town, South Africa, many cities in Russia and Ukraine among others.

Rabbi Kurinsky is the current leader of Chabad @ the Beaches a synagogue, adult education and Jewish outreach center in Ponte Vedra, the center serves Jewish people in Ponte Vedra and the Jacksonville Beaches area.

Tell us a little about how Chabad @ the Beaches got started?

It all started about 13 years ago when I was a student in the Rabbinical College of America in Morristown NJ. Rabbi Kahanov, Director of Chabad of Northeast Florida, sought to organize a holiday program for teenagers in Jacksonville. Since I had a bit of experience working with youth, some friends of mine suggested that I join the group headed to Jacksonville. I guess I never looked back.

Rabbi and Mrs. Kahanov were great. They kept bringing us back for different occasions.

They accepted us into their family as did the community. Eventually, a group of us spent an entire year in Jacksonville.

My Chabad youth activities took me to many places from Russia to South Africa to California; but Jacksonville was different. I always felt a special connection here. Interestingly enough Rabbi Novack of Chabad of Southside was also part of that group. So I guess I was not the only

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one who felt that way.

every single Jew in the area.

How did you get started at the Beach?

There are an estimated 1,200 Jewish people in the area and 900 have participated in our programs. We feel very good about what we have accomplished; but we are not satisfied because there are many Jewish people in the area who have not had the opportunity to have a Jewish experience as of yet.

One summer, Rabbi Kahanov had arranged for a group of us to spend some time doing outreach work in the Beaches area. We met some wonderful people who expressed an interest in starting a Chabad branch at the Beaches. Many of our members today, were part of the original group that we met during that summer.

When did you decide to actually move to the Beaches area?

My wife Leah and I met in 2004 and got married in June of that year. Shortly thereafter Rabbi Kahanov broached the subject of establishing a satellite branch of Chabad in the beaches area.

Since I had a fond impression of the place from my past visits, I was attracted to the idea from the start. It didn’t take long for me to convince my wife to entertain the possibility and to accept the position.

What does the Beaches Chabad House look like now?

Our facility consists of a two story converted house, which is very heimish and beautifully renovated. A member and local contractor; Mr. Yehuda Ben Simon, did a phenomenal job redoing the entire interior. We already have 2,500 sq ft of usable space and are not done yet. It’s got the perfect balance between looking elegant and feeling cozy.

How about the organization?

As for the organization, we’ve experienced incredible growth. Rabbi Eli Wilansky and his wife Esther have joined us last year to help with the may expanding programs. We’re all very busy all the time. While we like to have fun, we get a lot done. There is constant activity, whether it be programs for teens, the elderly, visiting prisons, or people in the hospital. We are all doing our part to reach

Tell me about your track record.

From the very start we met with some great successes and some drastic challenges. On the one hand the community out here is fairly “un-established”, some 90% of the Jews being unaffiliated, and about the same percentage intermarried. For the larger more well known holidays we tended to have nice turnouts. At our first Chanukah event we had 150 people.

But at our first Purim event we had 5, even though we spent a small fortune on advertising and on the event itself.

What is your focus?

From the very onset we focused on families with children and education.

What do you do for the children?

From the very beginning we incorporated the children into our activities and Friday night service. We offer special holiday events for them. Mommy and Me groups also meet at Chabad. My wife Leah is great with the kids.

They simply take to her and she loves them.

Esther Wilansky, a highly accomplished early childhood educator, is now assisting Leah.

Now, we thank G-d have a successful Hebrew School as well. Hardly a day goes by without a children’s event or activity at our Chabad Center. We are also very proud of the Chabad Preschool - Ganeinu, which is run by our dear friends and colleagues Rabbi Shmuli and Chana Novack.

recent events “Jewish Unity” Theme of Lag B’ Omer Outing at Chabad Headquarters in Mandarin.

dominant sense of Jewish pride and unity that permeated the outing and its remarkable success. The great food, entertainment and many smiling faces, seems to have had something to do with it as well.

See photos on page 2.

“What a great tribute to a day that is symbolic and devoted to Jewish unity and friendship,” says Rabbi Yoseph Kahanov, director of Chabad on the First Coast.

Jewish Unity scores a huge victory in Jacksonville as a cross section of over three hundred people, of all ages and segments, gathered on Sunday May 22, at Chabad Headquarters in Mandarin, to celebrate Lag B’Omer. Lag B’Omer is Hebrew for “33rd [day] in the Omer.” The Hebrew letter ‫( ל‬lamed) represents “30” and ‫( ג‬Gimmel) represents “3.”

What kind of classes do you offer?

Our staff has increased over the past 8 years to the point where we are able to offer classes literally every day of the week and often several on the same day and even simultaneously. We give classes in Jewish mysticism, Jewish law, Hebrew reading, prayer and a host of other subjects.

Is it true that you’re now naming your Center?

Yes! From Chabad at the Beaches’ inception, Mr. Michael Scharf and his wife Fiona have been incredibly kind and philanthropic. Michael’s parents, Blanche OBM and Aaron Scharf have been long standing members of the Ponte Vedra Jewish community. Mrs. Blanche Scharf passed away in 2005. Mr. Aaron Scharf still resides in Ponte Vedra and is also a friend and supporter of Chabad @ the Beaches Our annual gala dinner on June 12th will give us the opportunity to rename the Chabad Center the Aaron and Blanche Scharf Center for Jewish Life.

Tell us about some things that are on the horizon.

We plan to expand our social services. We already provide counseling, hospital and prison visitations and recovery classes and meetings.

We plan to expand to professional counseling as well as several other social service type activities. We also plan to develop our Children’s Service on Friday nights so that children bring their parents to shul. This is already the case at our Hebrew school.

We plan to add classes during the day to accommodate those that want to study but would rather a daytime class either because they are retired or because the kids are at school during the day.

We also have a rather large military community here. We are somewhat involved with them, and would like to increase that involvement.

The Biblical mandate to count the Omer appears in Leviticus 23:15–6, which states that it is a Mitzvah to count seven complete weeks from the day after Passover night, ending with the festival of Shavuot on the fiftieth day. There are a number of explanations as to why the 33rd day is treated as a special holiday.

The Talmud relates that during the period of the Omer counting, 24,000 of Rabbi Akiva’s students perished in a devastating plague. The Talmud attributes this tragedy to the prevailing lack of respect that existed among these great sages - they questioned the sacred status of each others’ spiritual approach. Lag B’Omer is believed to be the day that this plague came to an end.

After the death of Rabbi Akiva’s 24,000 students, he taught just five students, among them Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai. The latter went on to become the greatest teacher of Torah in his generation.

Over 600 Join Chabad for the passover Seders on the First Coast.

Since it is forbidden to take pictures on the holidays, we can only share photos of the preparation and set up.

Pesach Seder @ the Beaches.

Model Matzah Bakery @ the Beaches.

The day of Lag B’Omer is also celebrated as the Hillula or Yahrzeit (anniversary of death) of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, who authored the Zohar, the landmark text of Jewish mysticism.

According to tradition, on the day of Bar Yochai’s death, he revealed the deepest secrets of the Kabbalah.

The day of death of a Tzaddik isn’t generally considered a day of celebration. However, on the day of his death, Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai instructed his students to celebrate this day as a holiday to commemorate the vast amount of mystical teachings which he revealed at that time.

As restrictions of mourning are lifted on the 33rd day of the Omer, weddings, parties, music, and haircuts commonly coincide with the day.

Picnics and outings, outdoor field trips have also become part of the day’s celebration.

Model Matzah Bakery in the Southside

Pesach Seder in Clay County

The Lubavitcher Rebbe encouraged Lag B’Omer parades to be held in Jewish communities around the world as a demonstration of Jewish unity & pride. Chabad sponsors parades as well as rallies, bonfires and barbecues for thousands of participants around the world.

The diverse mixture of Jews from all congregations and affiliations throughout the greater Jacksonville area, helped foster the

Pesach Seder in S Augustine

OUR OWN BACKYARD A Baal T’Shuva Amongst Us

By Dr. Michael Mendel Galer I was born and raised in Boston by parents who came from Russia. Although there was Yiddishkite in the home I was sent to a Reform Temple where I was Bar Mitzvah, graduated Hebrew School and I was confirmed. This pronounced the end of my formal Jewish and religious education. Within a few years I found myself drawn back to Temple and for a while I taught 7th grade Jewish History and coordinated the youth group. The well meaning and well respected Rabbi was teaching a class on Judaism at Boston College which he invited me to audit. I remember that I found it fascinating however there was no where I could go to learn more and get my questions answered. The Rabbi was a busy man running a congregation of over 1500 families. The Temple even had two seating’s for the high holidays in a building that had 1500 seats. After my father passed away my brother and I said kaddish for him every morning for a year. We got tired of being just two or four of us there. I just drifted away feeling the emptiness and exclusion from those at the Bimah and the congregants who sat and responded.

Some of us are slow learners. I am such a person.

My first encounter with Chasidus was in Boston with the Bostonner Rebbe. I was invited to make a documentary film about his life. I often thought what a wonderful culture I stepped into during those months of photography. Alas the project ended and I moved on. I was invited to consult with the Chabad of Boston to market and develop a major fundraising dinner. The event was quite successful however, I had the opportunity this time to get to know several Rabbis who put Teffilin on me and bought me my first Tallis. I was welcomed and encouraged but I disengaged anyway. I remember asking about Kabalah and when the Rabbi loaned me a book I found it incomprehensible.

More recently I moved to Ponte Vedra Beach Florida where I met a young Rabbi and Rebbitzin. After some testing of the waters for me and attending a few holiday events I slowly began to attend an occasional Friday night service. I was always made to feel comfortable and very welcome. I found the services very different. I knew many of the prayers but almost no awareness of what was happening. One day the Rabbi called and invited me to learn with him. The whole world of Judaism seemed to open up to me.

Suddenly I was learning Tanya, Torah and I began to attend regular Shabbos services and Friday nights. Then I attended some additional holidays and slowly I was learning. One day I asked the Rabbi where I could get tzitzis, there was no pressure, never even a suggestion. I

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just began to wear them. Then I wanted my own set of Teffilin and began to daven daily. The feelings of serenity that I felt during this time began to increase as I learned more and more. I found myself in a slowly moving process where one learning moved me toward the next action. Then the action prompted more learning. This was a very exhilarating and spiritual time. I felt like I had a place that was safe, loving and fun to hang out.

Some examples that stand out now are clearer to me than before.

I remember learning about my Neshoma/Soul, and that I had a spark of Hashem in me that would never leave. This new understanding thrilled me. The joy to know that I was safe, that I was truly loved, no matter what knocked the wind out of me. That as a Jew I could get closer to Hashem All that was suggested is that I work on myself.

I learned about being a Baal Teshuvah and what that meant. I felt like I now found a road to follow. I was a secular Jew was not being judged for my secular background. I could return to Hashem and Torah as a “work in progress” moving forward toward full observance. I call myself a Benoni wanna be. It moved me to tears when I learned that repentance was the beginning. There is no punishment. I did not have to do any more than sincerely be sorry for the things I was not proud of in the past. There was no punishment, and even better, wow! I got “extra credit” because I was truly sorry.

I began to read the daily Parsha and learn Torah. I learned the role Torah plays in the life of a Jew. The lifelong information I gathered began make less sense as I learned Torah and the requirement of doing a Mitzvah. Again, it was not that I had the mistaken understanding a mitzvah was a “good deed” but I really did not know how important it is in my daily life.

Not just a commandment but a way of creating a bond between G-d and myself. How powerful is that. A personal bond with G-d by just doing the right thing. Keeping Shabbos, praising my kids, feeding my body with healthy fuel are all Mitzvah. When I consider how really easy Hashem makes it for us to get closer to him I feel a light heartedness. Learn Torah, do Mitzvah and work on myself are the trifecta of happiness. I felt my life become a process in which I was just following a path laid out by G-d.

Now I was on the road. There was never any pressure. Not from the Rabbi or from myself. I knew that I was gulping down large ideas and I was always encouraged to not try and get it all at once. I promise, I took a look at what I knew and what I knew that I knew. And then I looked

out over what I did not know, and what I did not know that I did not know and I was just old enough to realize why so many Torah scholars spent lifetime learning. However, the learning, with the Rabbis guidance was accessible. One on one Rabbi learning, classes, courses, online, offline, books, newspapers. The learning for me is a formal and informal daily occurrence.

In thinking about this time I realize that it was less than a year.

So here I am a Baal Teshuvah. I decided that I wanted to keep Kosher. The Rebbitzin gave me a book and after reading it and in the delusional of thinking I understood I asked the Rabbi to please Kosher my kitchen. When the process of blow torches and disposal ended I felt cleaner than I had for a lifetime. Now I began to try and follow the rules of Kashruth on a more detailed approach.

I threw away many spoons, pan, pots and dishes while I learned, but I was determined.

The presented me with an opportunity to go to a Yeshiva for week long learning program. I was delighted and made the arrangements. But I kept learning at Shul and with the Rabbi. It was about this point that I set a date to become Shomer Shabbos. I had a final business trip I had committed to and so I chose April 1st. My life good not have been fuller, happier and I felt a long missing connection to my Jewish heritage. So what could happen to change all this. Go figure, Hashem has plans, and he does not consult me.

A nice lady was always at the Shul and put food on the table. She also seemed involved with the community. I have no clear explanation about what happened next. I just asked the Rabbi about her and he said “not my territory” talk to the Rebbitzin. When I did so I was told

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there were a few non-negotiable, Kosher and Shomer Shabbos were the basic entry requirements. It was then explained to me that Chasidus do not date for social reasons.

I only reason to date is with the possibility of marriage. I did not even hesitate. I said yes. I was then told that I would hear from her if the woman agreed to a date.

I felt single-minded in my actions. There were no checking things out. Not living together to see if things worked out. It is a zero sum game. In, or out. Yet the whole time I just kept moving forward. I remember looking at this woman and I had not idea of her figure, she was covered from head to toe and arm to fingertips. She wore a shuttle.

I did not care. I believe now that Hashem was totally in charge. When the Rebbitzin said that I could call for a date but we could not date until after Pesach I was jubilant. I remember calling the next day and asking if she would have a coffee with me the Sunday after Pesach. She said yes.

I asked my Rabbi to help guide me. I was totally ignorant but I did not want to mess this up. I remember that during the Pesach Seder’s and the week ahead I would try to sit near this lady, but she always moved.

I got her to say was Good Shabbos during that time. The date day finally arrived and we went to Starbucks. We had agreed to an hour of coffee and just getting to know each other. Well, five hours later I finally said we should go. I was afraid I was breaking a rule by talking for so long.

It was amazing we both talked. We both listened. We both did not finish our one tea. I took her home and I said that I would contact the Rebbitzin about another date.

Terry said that it was okay and she would like to meet again. I was thrilled. We made a date for the next week and I suggested a walk along the beach. We walked and we talked and we talked and we walked. We felt we had so much in common. I remember feeling a great calm. I was not flying high or wound up. I was at peace. I would talk to the Rabbi and he kept telling me to go slow and let things roll out. Well I thought that was good advice.

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comment,

and discuss firstcoastchabad.blogspot.com

So on our next date we went fishing off the pier. I told Terry that I was in no rush and we should take our time. She agreed.

She then asked me what I wanted the end result to be. I simply said that I was interested in marriage.

She said that she was also. So I guess Hashem just put our two neshoma’s together and we had made a pledge. We went back to

tell the Rabbi and Rebbitzin. I guess there was a workshop just ending because when we told them what we had said the whole community, or at least it felt that way became very happy and excited. The assistant Rabbi asked if it was true. We said yes and the next thing we knew we were outed on Facebook.

We hadn’t even told family. This would come back to haunt us for a while. I told Terry that I would never look like all those black hats and I really meant it.

When I was in Crown Heights I visited 770 and Davened. I and went to the Yeshiva for a few classes. I returned with a Kapota and a Black Hat. Who knew? The Rabbi said I had a Chassidic Neshoma.

We had a magnificent wedding at Chabad with 120 guests and room for 90. It all worked out. It was amazing being under the Chupa. In the pictures I looked so scared. I think I was just inhaling the experience. The past year as a Choson has been one of great growth and great joy. I have a full partner and we still talk to each other all day and night.

We walk to shul and we do what we can to help grow the community.

Now the real learning began. Eliana, my wife has been observant for eight years. She and I discuss many things. We talk about the weekly Parsha and we share our learning.

However, the process of keeping kosher is an ongoing challenge. Not the food or the basic premise, just the day to day mixing up spoons and pots and bowls. So I am a continuing education major in Kashruth.

My learning has been miraculous, every day I seem to get new information and a deeper comprehension of Torah. I am finding Torah learning to be a monumental and lifelong joy. By doing Mitzvah I am obey G-d’s commandments. By learning Torah I am becoming closer to Hashem and, I must say more content, more curious and more joyous.

My plans are to be a soldier of the Rebbe and to reach out to all Jews who may be suffering from drug addiction or alcoholism and bring them to Chabad for a meeting. It is better than a Church basement.

Dr. Michael Galer is currently Director of Academic Affairs at University of Phoenix.

He has over 6 years of experience as a Nationally Syndicated Talk Show host of “Recovery Radio” and as co-founder of R-Net Behavioral Health Cable TV Channel with over 18 million viewers 24/7

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education Early Childhood Education has become a hot topic of late. Federal Budgets, State Legislature even our own Mayor here in Jacksonville has been a big proponent of quality Early Childhood Education. Why the brouhaha? Increasingly studies demonstrate the pivotal role that Early Education plays in our lives.

Early years are critical years in a child’s development but it doesn’t end there - a recent New York Times article highlighted the vast difference in personal income between adults who attended quality preschools and those who did not.

The

Un-Daycare

Judaism is not taught as just another “theme” or “subject” of our curriculum.

The curriculum and lesson plans spring-board from Jewish Life. This approach emphasizes the integral role that Judaism plays in every aspect of a child’s life in a fun, memorable and experiential way.

The same holds true for Jewish Education. Laying the groundwork of Jewish identity during these critical years is crucial to raising a generation of proud and passionate Jewish people.

layout create a calm environment conducive to early childhood development. Each classroom contains age appropriate Educational Centers

foster physical and emotional development, encourage creativity and promote problem solving, social skills and build self confidence.

Our teachers are all highly trained and experienced early childhood professionals.

What is the most important qualification we pride our staff in? Their patience, caring, and loving concern for each and every student.

Chana Novack is the director and founder of Ganeinu – Chabad’s Early Childhood Development Center, First Coast Chabad caught up with her; the following are excerpts of our conversation:

Our well rounded program also incorporates the Playball™ Sports Readiness Program, hands-on Gardening classes and Music and Movement activities. Special visits from Fire and Police, Dental and Medical professionals are always a child favorite.

At Ganeinu – Chabad’s Early Childhood Development Center we recognize the essential role we play in the lives of our students both past and present.

When we launched the preschool, I approached everything from two angles, Each classroom contains age appropriate Educational as a mother and as an educator. When Centers including drama, art, library, building blocks, you look at our preschool these two manipulatives, science and math. approaches are apparent. We developed a comprehensive scholastic program and combined it with individual care and attention including drama, art, library, building blocks, recognizing that no two children are the same – manipulatives, science and math. During Center Time students can choose an activity every child is unique in their own way. of their liking. Each center is designed to Our curriculum is designed based on Howard Gardener’s theory of Multiple Intelligences.

This approach utilizing multiple approaches for every theme enables us to really engage each child making every experience vibrant and vivid to bring each topic to life.

Ganeinu means Our Garden embodying the care and devotion we devote to each of our students. It gives us great pleasure watching our graduates excel in their respective Elementary Schools as proud Jewish Children well prepared to take on the world.

To learn more please visit www.ganeinu.com.

Like us! Facebook.com/Ganeinu

Judaism is not taught as just another “theme” or “subject” of our curriculum. The curriculum and lesson plans spring-board from Jewish Life.

This approach emphasizes the integral role that Judaism plays in every aspect of a child’s life in a fun, memorable and experiential way.

The classroom is an integral part of our preschool. The colors, furniture and classroom

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Our state-of-the-art 4,000 square foot building and beautiful grounds was carefully designed for the safety and well-being of each student.

REBBE Thousands Flock to N.Y. Holy Site on Occasion of Auspicious Day In honor of the 3rd of Tammuz (July 5), the 17th Yarzeit of the Rebbe, a time when many flock to the Rebbe’s gravesite in NY, we bring you the following article that was written in honor of the Rebbe’s birthday.

By Karen Schwartz

coverings, non-leather shoes and snacks, as many have fasted all day in preparation for their visit. There’s even a crowd control system for when it gets busy, which helps organize the crowd into groups so 80 or 90 can go through at a time.

Rachel Ribacoff prays at the resting place of the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory.

For Benzecry, it’s a trip that provides a fulcrum for her life’s plans and dreams.

“It’s like starting something fresh,” she explained. “I leave here and I feel more pure, more in touch with my essence. I don’t know how to explain it, but I feel light.”

Eliane Benzecry has carried a picture of the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory, in her wallet her whole life. First benefitting from Chabad-Lubavitch as a child growing up in Brazil, she Yigal Dakar lights a candle says that now living close to his before entering the Rebbe’s resting place in Cambria Heights, resting place.

N.Y., is very meaningful.

She was one of thousands of people who could be found last week at the Ohel, the complex at the Old Montefiore Cemetery housing the resting places of the Rebbe and his father-in-law, the Sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, of righteous memory.

Making the trek from all over the world on occasion of the 109th anniversary of the Rebbe’s birth, the contingent included Chabad-Lubavitch emissaries, Jewish lay leaders, Israeli expatriates, and men, women and children of all stripes.

Benzecry was part of three carloads of people that set out from Manhattan’s Upper West Side. On the way, Rabbi Chayim Baruch Alevsky of Chabad of the West Side explained the tradition of visiting the resting place of righteous person as a way to derive inspiration and add vitality to one’s supplications to G-d.

Pointing to the unique time of year – occurring on the 11th day of the Hebrew month of Nissan, the Rebbe’s birthday always took place four days before Passover – Alevsky told his companions that “the Rebbe utilized this time to inspire people about new beginnings.”

Last week represented one of the times during the year that visits to the Rebbe’s Ohel spike, explained Rabbi Abba Refson, director of Ohel Chabad-Lubavitch, the visitors center that abuts the resting places.

Crowds to the tune of 10,000 at a time are not unheard of, and several hundred typically stay for the Sabbath around such times.

The center, which is open 24 hours a day, provides guests with prayer books, head

Sitting at a long table in an adjoining tent, pen in hand, she writes a note, in her head composing new goals for personal Jewish growth and other aspects of her life. The process is powerful, she said, from being surrounded by so many pious people to the candle she lights as she gets ready to say her prayer, to the actual experience of standing in the Rebbe’s presence. It generates an energy that she takes home with her, she added. She’ll leave the note, in accordance with tradition, torn into pieces at the resting place itself.

She said she would like to go more often, and was grateful to Alevsky for helping her and her friends plan the trip.

“Sometimes in life you need a push,” she said. “They gave me the push I needed by being available, by allowing this to happen in my life.”

Joel Sosa and his wife Oranit jumped at the chance to visit the Ohel the minute they received word about it.

“There wasn’t a second thought about it,” said Oranit Sosa.

She pointed to the tradition of visiting graves of righteous people before major holidays, and the benefits of being in a space, especially before Passover, that for her rings of family and community.

It was her second visit, which she said in some ways gave her a better chance to speak her mind.

“This second time I feel more comfortable and more free,” she explained.

She added that she left with a positive pointof-view in mind, and the hope that things will get better.

“We are in some of the major intersections in life,” stated Sosa. “It’s a relief to ask for whatever you need, especially before Passover.”

Joel Sosa hopes to bring his sons, ages seven, five and two, on his next visit.

He described the experience as “coming back home.”

Hundreds a Day Crowds are increasing by the year, said Refson, who oversees operations at the Ohel and provides for its visitors’ needs. So do letters and emails. The center receives hundreds, and sometimes thousands, of messages daily from Judy Federbush composes people asking to have their requests read her thoughts as she writes or placed at the resting place. a note to be read at the Rebbe’s resting place.

During the Rebbe’s lifetime, people would travel long distances and tune in to hear his messages on the radio and television.

Today, people study his teachings from books, audio recordings and video footage, participate in Chasidic gatherings, and seek inspiration at his resting place. Many still rely on his blessings, explained Alevsky.

“When you go to the Rebbe’s resting place, blessings follow,” he said. “It’s a holy place in which people connect to G-d in a very powerful way.”

People change out of leather shoes before entering the Ohel, which has separate entrances for men and women, some of whom knock on the door before entering out of respect. Inside, people pray quietly, many recite Psalms or read the letters they’ve written from their hearts.

“Being here reinvigorates me and gives me a sense of direction,” said Joel Sosa. In a world where it’s easy to lose direction, going to the Ohel not only helps him refocus but also makes him feel like he has more to live up to personally. “I feel like I’ve just had a meeting with my boss, and he guided me on how to improve my life. jUNE 2011/SIVAN 5771

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9

SHAVUOT 5771/2011 All Night Learn-a-Thon

The Ten Commandments

Tuesday, June 7

Wednesday, June 8

Mandarin: 12:00 AM

Mandarin: 11:00 AM

Separate study sessions will be conducted by Rabbi Yossie Kahanov, Rabbi Mendy Browd, visiting Yeshiva Students, as well as by lay members of the community, held at the Chabad Center.

Beaches: 10:30 AM

Separate study sessions for women, given by Rivkie Kahanov, Nechamie Browd, as well as other women, held at the Browd residence .

Clay County: 5:15 PM

Beaches: 11:00 PM – 4:00 AM Rabbi Nochum Kurinsky will lead a class titled: The Echoes of the Torah: How G-d’s Revelation Changed the Way Everyone Thinks and Feels.

Other discussions and learning will follow.

Southside: 11:00 PM – 4:00 AM Participants will delve into the complexities of the Talmud, seen by many as the key to Jewish Intelligence. Also, how does Judaism feel about Human Cloning?

Additional study sessions with visiting Rabbinical Students.

For more information and the times of services, please call your local Chabad.

Locations Mandarin / Headquarters 10129 Haley Rd. • Jacksonville, FL 32257 Phone. 904.262.6641 Fax. 904.880.0787 www.ChabadJacksonville.org

Chabad At the Beaches 521 A1A N • Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

Phone. 904.543.9301 www.chabadbeaches.com

Southside: 5:15 PM S. Augustine: 6:00 PM

Chabad Southside

It is important for every Jew to be in Synagogue at the time of the reading of the Ten Commandments and especially for the children, as the they played a critical role in the receiving of the Torah. When G-d gave the Torah to the Jewish people, he gave it on the condition that the young boys and girls will be the guarantors.

Dairy Dazzle

11271 Alumni Way Jacksonville, Fl 32246 Phone. 904.646.4434 www.SouthsideChabad.com

Chabad of S. Augustine 604 S. Tree Garden Drive St. Augustine, FL 32086 Phone. 904.521.8664 www.ChabadSAugustine.com

Chabad of Clay County

Wednesday, June 8 Following Services and the reading of the Ten Commandments, a delicious dairy Kiddush will be served, including blintzes and other delicacies. There will also be special treats, including ice cream for the children.

2285 Marsh Hawk Ln 13-201 Fleming Island, Fl 32003 Phone. 904.290.1017 www.jewishclaycounty.com

Mandarin & Beaches: 12:30 pm

Professional and caring staff Swimming • Sports • Creative Art Exciting Trips • Drama • Nature A meaningful Jewish program geared to educate and encourage children to learn and be proud of their heritage while having the time of their life!

Toddlers – Ten year olds “Give your child the summer of a lifetime!”

Dates: Session 1: June 27 through July 15.

Session 2: July 18 through August 5

Rates: 9am - 1pm $320 per session • 9am - 3pm $410 per session • For financial aid contact us today.

Visit our webiste at www.southsidechabad.com/camp or call Director Chana Novack at 646-4434.

On the first Passover, after 210 years of bondage, the Jewish people left Egypt.

The Story of Shavuot — The Giving of the Torah With signs and wonders, G-d led them, with a pillar of cloud by day, and a pillar of fire by night.

And in the barren desert, He fed them with manna from Heaven.

He split the Reed Sea....

Finally, G-d brought the Jews to Sinai, where they camped before the mountain in unity, as one person, with one heart....

Everyone was excited. Soon G-d was going to give them the Torah!

But G-d wanted a guarantee that the Jewish people would ALWAYS cherish the Torah.

“Our prophets and teachers will be our Our holy forefathers will guarantors!” guarantee it,” said the Jews.

“Then our children will be our guarantors!” said the Jews at last.”

“Good! If the children are the guarantors, I will give you the TORAH.”

NO!

And so it was, on the very first Shavuot.

NO!

G-d knew that He could count on Jewish boys and girls to make sure the Jewish people would love the Torah, learn it, and do its holy Mitzvot. Fulfilling G-d’s Commandments will bring Moshiach speedily in our days.

Sinai Sundae It is customary to eat dairy foods on the first day of Shavuot.

Here is one way to observe this delicious tradition.

Ingredients }} 1 scoop ice cream }} 1 dollop of whipped cream }} Chocolate syrup }} Colored Sprinkles

fun fact Although Mount Sinai was situated in a desert, when the Torah was given the mountain bloomed and sprouted flowers.

Truth or Myth Myth: The stone tablets were rounded on top.

TRUTH: Though they are depicted in ancient paintings and sculptures as round they were, in fact, perfectly cubed.

}} 2 squares of white chocolate

directions 1.

Scoop ice cream on to a plate to form a mountain.

2. Drizzle chocolate syrup down the sides.

3. Layer with a dollop of whipped cream.

did you know?

more shavuot Fun www.tzivoshashem.org/kids

Two days before the giving of the Torah Moshe built a border around the mountain and instructed the Jewish people not to pass.

4. Decorate with colored sprinkles to resemble flowers.

5. Top with the 2 squares of chocolate standing upright.

Enjoy!

Chabad Lubavitch 2285 Marsh Hawk Ln 13-201 Fleming Island, Fl 32003

non profit org. u.s. postage

paid

jacksonville, fl permit no. 2783

‫ב״ה‬

INFANT - KINDERGARTEN FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE OPTIONS

FREE Pre-Kindergarten with VPK!

give us a call at

www.Ganeinu.com Shabbos Live MONTHLY ONEG FREE AND OPEN TO ALL! Join us for a memorable Shabbat experience. Feel the holiness that only Shabbat can bring. Enjoy great food, insightful discussion, Chassidic melodies and a warm “Heimish” atmosphere.

Chabad Headquarters/Mandarin: For more info and to reserve, call 262-6641

904-646-4434