On Wednesday evening, June 25 2025, over 600 people joined together at the Palace Hall in Brooklyn, NY for a graduation Chag HaSmicha celebration hosted by Machon Smicha, the premier online institute of Halachah. Over 150 Smicha and Dayanus graduates attended in person, with an additional 150+ joining virtually, representing a wide range of communities around the world, all united by their dedication to the study and mastery of halachah.
The evening began with a lavish dinner, followed by a carefully orchestrated ceremony that honored both the accomplishments of the graduates and the enduring mesorah — the chain of Torah passed from teacher to student since Sinai.
The theme of the evening, “A Chain of Tradition,” highlighted the unbroken transmission of Torah from teacher to student stretching back to Moshe Rabbeinu. The event honored not only the graduates, but also their families, friends, and Rabbonim, whose support made the achievement possible.
The program featured a meaningful blend of video presentations, reflections, and addresses from prominent rabbis and community leaders. Hosted by Rabbi Shlomo Chaim Kesselman, Executive Director of Machon Smicha, the evening was warm and celebratory. Rabbi Mendel Prescott, Rosh Yeshiva of Machon Smicha, delivered a meaningful Dvar Torah. Rabbi Avi Lauer gave the keynote address, offering reflections on his journey through Machon Smicha, and Dayan Levi Yitzchak Raskin delivered a powerful message about the world’s desperate need for leadership—and the responsibility of the graduates to rise to that calling. In all, the atmosphere was one of joy, pride, and profound inspiration, marking the culmination of years of rigorous study.
Throughout the evening, new programs and initiatives were announced, signaling the continued growth and impact of Machon Smicha’s mission to make serious Halachah and Torah learning accessible across the globe. For those unable to attend, the entire event was live-streamed.
Mazal Tov to all Musmachim and their families!
Watch a replay of the ceremony and learn more about joining Machon Smicha at onlinemachon.com
It was an amazing celebration of focused Torah learning
by hundreds of people – a wonderful Torah opportunity.
Big Yasher Koach
And looking forward to even greater success
in the future of Machon Smicha
It was unbelievable be able to come together and celebrate like that with my entire family. Thank you to the entire machon smicha team!
Rabbi Prescott I couldn’t have done it without you!
mazal tov and kol hakavod to all the precious people involved in this and Mazal Tov to their families and all of Klal Yisroel. This is truly so moving to see-Yidden of all ages getting Smicha and celebrating their Torah learning.
highly recommended program!
everything from the curriculum to staff!