A large crowd gathered at Bais Rivkah school in Crown Heights for a Yud Beis Tamuz Hakhel in memory of Rabbi Yekusiel Menachem Rapp OBM. The program was tremendously inspiring and uplifting, featuring noted, honorable speakers.
The program began with a Siyum by his son, Shneur Zalman Tzemach, with the MC for the evening, Rabbi Shalom Pape.
Words of chizuk were related by Rabbi Yakov Schwei followed by Rabbi Yosef Braun, which pointed out in Rabbi Rapp’s name Yekusiel means “hope” and Menachem means “comfort” and concluded with blessings to the family with words of comfort and hope for the future.
Rabbi Shmuel Butman spoke about formulating Mateh Shira Vizimra to welcome the Geulah, and his ongoing activities with Shleimutz Haaretz.
Rabbi Shlomo Majeski clarified for everyone the pure Simcha needed in the time of Golus, and even more so in our present time. In accordance with the Rebbe’s Sicha in Shnas Tismach, that the Avoda now is being happy – besimcha.
Rabbi Gerlitzky enumerated the special qualities we learn from Rabbi Rapp, including the great Ahavas Yisroel and Eidelkiet, he left us wondering where was the time he had to learn his chidushei Torah that he related at the Siyumei Harambam and to compose his Seforim Tikvas Menachem.
Rabbi Golomb, a personal friend and colleague from Yeshiva, related an amazing story with the Rebbe Rashab, reflecting the merit ensuing from one’s Chidushei Torah.
Rabbi Moskowitz, a son in law of Rabbi Rapp, emphasized living Moshiach and Geulah on one’s daily activities. Shneur Rapp followed with closing words, emphasizing his family’s unity and respect for his father’s views and activities, inspiring Hachlotos Tovos at this auspicious time.
The crowd was treated to a very special featured video, which portrayed Rabbi Rapp bringing various dignitaries to the Rebbe for dollars, and activities of the ongoing work at Chabad of the Airport, continued today by his son, Yosef Yitzchok Rapp.
What a beautiful tribute to such a special man.