Close to 400 people joined at Jerusalem’s First Station on Lag B’Omer to enjoy a unity parade and fun festival organized by Chabad of Baka and the Friendship Circle of South Jerusalem, directed by Rabbi Avraham and Nechama Dina Hendel.
Elad entertained with his fire juggling and various stunts, bringing broad smiles and thunderous applause from the appreciative audience. Joyous music by Benzion Anders led to dancing and enhanced the marching parade.
Chabad of Baka’s drumming band, led by Yekusiel, performed throughout the parade and brought passersby to their windows and into the streets.
Yeshiva volunteers led the children in the 12 pesukim throughout the parade, handing out prizes and singing and dancing with all their might. Volunteers from Machon Shoshanat Yerushalayim and the Friendship Circle of South Jerusalem were counselors and assisted with distributing the snacks, ices, and beautiful seforim for every child.
After the parade, children were treated to amusement park rides and a Beis Hamikdash experience, with various stations where they made ketores, lechem hapanim bread, art projects, and dressed up in fun costumes. It truly felt like a Hakhel experience!
Lag B;Omer Parade Video:
Menucha Orban, a mother from the community, shared, “You guys are incredible. Last night (referring to the barbecue, bonfire, and Kumzitz that Chabad of Baka hosted on Lag B’Omer eve) and today were beautiful, so well-arranged and enjoyable for all. Thank you!”
The Friendship Circle of South Jerusalem is currently gearing up for the second annual South Jerusalem Friendship Cycle, in partnership with Kosher Cycle Tours, and are raising much-needed funds to continue to service the community and expand their activities.
Click here to partner with them to spread more love, support, and inclusion for children with special needs and their families:
https://jerusalemfriendshipcycle.rallyup.com/2023/Campaign/Details
Watch this short video for a taste of the magic that takes place at Friendship Circle of South Jerusalem:
Video: Ben Bresky
Photo Credits: Ben Bresky
Shejna Wilhelm
Gaby Markowitz
Shayna Hefetz
Wow, what an incredible event. The Hendels are doing amazing work BH!! Such a great cause to donate to. We see firsthand what an amazing difference these shluchim are making to the lives of so many people in so many ways BH!
Wow! This is so incredible and amazing! The Hendels are providing an exceptional service for all these special children! How fortunate are these special children and their families!
Wishing the Hendels continued success in the best of health!