This year, Chabad of Baka’s annual menorah lightings at Jerusalem’s First Station seemed uncertain. Would there be a lockdown or curfew in Israel during Chanukah? Even as the holiday began, the government’s decision remained unclear.
But Baruch Hashem, the festivities were allowed, and in accordance with the Health Ministry Guidelines, Chabad of Baka once again illuminated Jerusalem’s trendy First Station.
Hundreds of donuts were distributed, and each night, in addition to the grand menorah lighting in the center of the station, Chabad of Baka-Beit Levi lit the Chanukah flames with numerous store owners. Together with seminary volunteers from Machon Shoshanat Yerushalayim, they gave out menorahs and candles to grateful passersby.
The highlight was night number four, which marks the yartzeit of Rabbi Avraham Hendel’s brother. Levi (ben Yisrael Yosef Hakohen) Hendel z’l tragically passed away en route to Chanukah mivtzaim with IDF soldiers 14 years ago. An outdoor concert with the Solomon brothers delighted the many people who had come out in tribute to Levi z’l, Chabad of Baka’s namesake.
The joy in the air was palpable, as people enjoyed the delightful weather and live music- for many, it was the first time in months.
One woman came over to the shluchim, Rabbi Avraham and Nechama Dina Hendel, and with tears in her eyes she confided, “This is the first time that I have felt simcha this year.”
The stress of the pandemic and her own personal health issues had been weighing heavily on her. Being at the concert and menorah lighting with Chabad had lifted her mood and infused her with much needed hope and optimism.
On night number six Jerusalem’s Mayor, Moshe Leon, lit Chabad of Baka’s gigantic menorah and complimented the shluchim on their commitment to spreading the light.
After 13 years of service, Chabad of Baka is now running their first Charidy campaign to help build a permanent center on the beautiful plot of land they have received from Jerusalem’s City Hall.
This is YOUR chance to help build Jerusalem and to partner with Chabad of Baka in the vital work that they do for Jerusalem residents- especially welcoming new olim and focusing on their unique needs, both physical and spiritual.
https://www.charidy.com/chabadbaka
Chabad of Baka offers a range of enriching classes and hosts inspiring guest speakers, a Women’s Circle, community gatherings, children’s programs, a daily and Shabbat minyan, and the Friendship Circle of South Jerusalem- which offers support and inclusion to children with special needs and their families. They also provide food and support to singles and families who are struggling financially. Especially during this global pandemic, they have come to the aid of those who are lonely and in need.
Join in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and help build a new Jewish center in the heart of Jerusalem!
They have already raised over a half a million dollars; partner with Chabad of Baka to gather the necessary funds to be able to begin building!!
Every dollar you give will be matched by a generous donor and will help begin phase one in the building of a beautiful center for Jews around the world- including YOU.
May your tzedaka to Yerushalayim Ir Hakodesh bring bountiful brachos to you and your family and hasten the coming of Moshiach- speedily now!
https://www.charidy.com/chabadbaka
Rabbi and Mrs. Hendel are fabulous shluchim, dedicated בלב ונפש to bringing Yiddishkeit and Chassidishkeit to their neighborhoods. Please donate generously!