On a balmy November Thursday evening, a buzzing, lively young crowd of over 100 people of different Jewish backgrounds gathered together at Congregation B’nai Avraham in Brooklyn Heights, sitting at long tables containing ingredients for making challah.
In Judaism, challah is baked fresh for Shabbat, a weekly Jewish holy day starting Friday night until Saturday, 25 hours later. Shabbat allows Jews to step back into a quiet, prayerful, meditative space to enjoy connecting with family and friends, praying at synagogue and sharing sumptuous dinners and lunches with loved ones.
This particular challah-bake was especially meaningful. Its purpose was to support Israel in its war against the evils of Hamas, expressing solidarity with Israel, its current predicament and its soldiers, which were discussed by a number of eloquent speakers. As the speakers presented, each participant mixed challah ingredients, kneaded dough and made new friends as they munched on snacks and sipped wine.
The evening opened with Michelle Komornik who spoke about the power of Jewish unity, the true antidote for antisemitism and hate. She then introduced the following speakers:
Rabbi Aaron and Shternie Raskin of Chabad of Brooklyn Heights spoke about the power of challah as a source of salvation, as challah represents unity.
Yael Raskin, Youth Director at Chabad of Brooklyn Heights, recited Psalm 20 for the increased safety of Israel.
Rebbetzin Chaya Eliav of Chabad of Clinton Hill and Pratt institute guided the participants through the process of mixing the dough, offering instruction in the Kabbalistic significance and representation of the challah ingredients.
Lisa Reik shared her impressions of the effects of the recent terror in Israel, Israel’s response and current needs, and her love for the land.
Maya Reik, Lisa’s daughter, and a parent from Kiddie Korner Preschool shared her experiences of the bombings and fears that Israelis endured starting on October 7th.
By the end of the evening, participants were united and uplifted by the program. Emily R. said, “It was so amazing to be with Jewish friends my age, bake challah and to be proud of being Jewish!”
Naomi S. relates, “Wow! So many different Jews, coming together to strengthen each other!”
Ariel Tidhar sold her art jewelry where 100% of the sales are going to Israeli charities assisting with the war.
Without a doubt, the evening created an opportunity for bonding, and a meaningful space where unity, love and support for Israel brought us all together.
Am Yisroel Chai!
So beautiful!
Luv the Achdus!
How powerful and so proud of my sister, Michelle!