Manalapan Bochurim Test Smicha

This past Sunday, Bochurim of Yeshivas Beis Menacham in Manalapan, NJ, were tested on Hilchos Taaruvos by Rabbi Mordechai Ashkenazi of Kfar Chabad, and Rabbi Levi Schapiro, the Yeshiva’s director.

Taking their second of four tests required to receive Semicha, the Bochurim made a strong impression on Rabbi Ashkenazi, who has come to expect a high academic standard from the Yeshiva, and dubs it, “my Smicha Program.”

Despite originally being non-committal when asked about the test, Rabbi Schapiro eventually expressed his satisfaction with the weekend, saying it exceeded his expectations.

Ashkenazi lauded the Bochurim’s clear and precise answers, saying that this year’s group may be the best he has seen yet. Rabbi Ashkenazi also spent part of his weekend giving last year’s Manalapan Bochurim their final test on Hilchos Shabbos.

The bochurim that received smicha are: Ruvy Litzman, Zalman Baumgarten, Avremel Zirkind, Yitzchok Heisler, Folik Gurevitch, Chanani Saks, Dovid Rendler, Danny Gniwisch and Yosef Truxton.

The program is run under the auspices of Rabbi Boruch Chazanow, Director of Chabad of Western Monmouth County and Ocean County. The Bochurim live and learn in Lakewood, NJ, some 15 miles away, where it is not uncommon to find local Jews popping into the Yeshivah for a quick chat and learning session with the boys. Their shameless adherence to Chassidishe Hanhogos has caused a tremendous Kiddush Hashem in the predominantly Litvish community.

While the majority of their day is focused on their studies, the Bochurim are engaged in many communal activities, including Chavrusah learning, tutoring, Mivtzoim, Mishmor programs and more. Their lively presence always enhances the Chabad House’s periodic events, such as their recent Purim bash. “They assist us tremendously,” says Chazanow. “As a busy Shliach, they take so much off my hands; it is as if they are adding hours to my day.”