Chabad Held Dual Shabbos Meals

By COLlive reporter
Photos taken before Shabbos

On a beautiful August summer night in New York, Chabad of Midtown and Mayanot once again teamed up for a great event.

Over 120 returnees from Birthright Israel trips came together for a lively Shabbos meal at Chabad Midtown’s Fifth Avenue location.

The girls were led in Shabbos candle lighting by Rivky Namdar, a former staff member of Mayanot. The girls listened raptly as Namdar explained the significance of this beautiful ritual- as well as the importance of bringing extra light into the world.

Amidst spirited singing, Kiddush was recited by Rabbi Dov Oliver, who serves as Mayanot’s alumni coordinator in New York City. Many attendees stated that apart from their actual Birthright trip, this was one of the only Shabbos meals they had ever experienced.

Chabad Midtown Shlucha Brocha Chana Metzger spoke movingly about Rosh Chodesh Menachem Av and its message of consolation and blessings. She received resounding applause when she stated that Chabad Midtown aims to host more events in the near future.

The singing and partying went late into the night as the groups reunited with their fellow alumni and staff in a delightful and idyllic setting.

The Birthright event was hosted in the upstairs social hall of 509 Fifth Avenue and sponsored by Chabad of Midtown.

The second-floor sanctuary was reset as a dining room. The weekly Friday night crowd of visitors from all over enjoyed a separate sumptuous Shabbat dinner lasting late into the night.

Rabbi Yehoshua Metzger, Director of Chabad Midtown expressed his appreciation to Zvi Reines, Mendy Weisz, Yudel Rader and the Chabad Midtown/ Mayanot teams for their dedication in ensuring the success of these two special events.