By COLlive reporter
Photos by Dovid Kersenti
A Menorah lighting ceremony was held on the first night of Chanukah in the courtyard of Yeshiva Tomchei Tmimim Lubavitch in the French town of Brunoy, this past Sunday.
Bochurim along with their teachers watched the candles being lit by R’ Dov Ayash, an alumnus and support of the Yeshiva. Burnoy Mayor Bruno Gallier was honored with lighting the Shamash candle.
The event, organized by the Yeshiva’s director Rabbi Mendel Gurevitch, was open to the local Jewish community who enjoyed donuts and an entertaining show for the children.
The celebration also unveiled the new name of the original building of the Yeshiva which has been used by French royalty in past decades. It was called Beth Baruch, in memory of the father of billionaire businessman Gennadiy Bogolyubov of Ukraine and England.
Some 10 years ago, Bogolyubov and Dneper Chief Rabbi Shmuel Kaminetzky visited the Yeshiva and witnessed the run-down state of the building that has served hundreds of students over the years. Rabbi Gurevitch and Yeshiva supporter Alan Green explained its history.
Bogolyubov donated its renovation which was done in compliance with local regulations to preserve the building’s unique character. While the building was inaugurated 4 years ago, there have been technical hurdles in placing the name on the facade. This past week, students danced with joy to celebrate Chanukah and the unveiling.
VIDEO: By Eli Illuz
Reuvain B., I don’t see you!!