“Spending shabbos at Sholom Mordechai Rubashkin’s house was a very moving experience. To see how he has handled the adversity he has faced is nothing short of inspirational. Seeing how Sholom always stayed true to himself serves as an important lesson on how to handle life’s challenges. The fact that he can share his story with a smile and so much positivity is nothing short of amazing.
“Three powerful lessons that I am taking away from this shabbos:
1. A prison is a place that contains our physical body but never our soul.
2. We can get through any challenge with the right mindset (including spending 8.5 years in prison!).
3. Do what is right especially when your circumstances are challenging.”
This is one of the many beautiful responses from an Aliya youth center member, after the most inspiring Aliya Shabbaton ever!
Excited faces showed up to Aliya on Friday morning super excited for an amazing Shabbos. All 3 vans made it out on time with the guys, food, and luggage and made it to the beautiful home in Jackson NJ, with plenty of time for an Erev Shabbos swim/ Mikva.
The Shabbos meals were deep and meaningful with lots of delicious food and everyone around the table sharing their mind.
The highlight for most was the Shabbos afternoon farbrengen which went for many hours with Reb Sholom Mordechai Rubashkin sharing story after story of his struggles and courage in prison to stay strong to his faith.
On Motzoei shabbos we enjoyed a swim and a kumzits with Reb Sholom Mordechai around the bonfire which was a real treat.
On Sunday morning we got up early for Shachris, breakfast and a Tanya Shiur with Reb SMR followed by an exciting roller coaster binge at Six Flags Great Adventures amusement park.
Thank you to our donors for helping make this trip a reality, thank you Rubashkin family, and thank you Rabbi Feiglin, Rabbi Shemtov, Rabbi Baitz, and Yosef Halevy for your infinite love and dedication you give to our youth and thank you to the Aliya wives for sending your husbands on this special trip that made a difference to so many lives!
VIDEO:
I joined Aliya a year ago and I believe it’s one of the best organizations in Crown Heights. The Rabbi’s only treat you with love and they really care about you.
Well done r mo and co
This looks amazing!!! Keep up the good work and making our community a brighter place. We need it