They came in droves, the learned and the beginner. The Rabbanim in dark frocks with long flowing Peyos alongside mountaineers in rugged jeans and flannels. From near and far they united with the Mountain Jews in marking history.
Last Sunday, despite their seeming differences, hundreds of Jews gathered together to honor the heritage and sanctity of Klal Yisroel. Together they celebrated in the Grand Opening of the Mikvah of the Poconos Mountains!
“This is a turning point in the Poconos region, a turning point for Taharas Hamishpocha!”, shares Rabbi Shmuly Newman, who together with his wife Chana spearheaded the Mikvah from its inception to completion.
After three years of extensive planning, fundraising, construction, and meticulous design, the Mikvah has opened its doors! All are awed by its beautiful and detailed design which mirrors the stringent halachic guidelines it was built upon under the auspices of Rabbi Yirmiyahu Katz, world renowned Mikvah expert.
And now, the Mikvah is ready to embrace every Jewish woman in this sacred Mikvah. From local beginners to devout vacationers, the Poconos Mikvah is truly one of unity.
And the Grand Opening Celebration reflected just that!
While children enjoyed an incredible kid’s program and show with Dr. Schnitzel, adults took part in an inspiring and gourmet celebration.
Regional Shluchim, Rabbi Tzvi Perlman and Rabbi Mendel Raices led the crowd in Tehillim, while words of Chizuk were shared by Rabbi Yitzchok Bistritsky of Mikvah USA, whose one-of-a-kind organization helped fund the beautiful Mikvah.
Rabbi Mordechai Dov Fine, the Rov of Scranton’s Machzikeh Hadas Congregation, spoke on the importance of Mikvah, while Mr. David Kakon shared heartfelt Mikvah experiences that visibly moved the crowd.
From the architects and designers, to community supporters and friends, the speakers and honorees reflected the Achdus of the occasion.
Together they davened for Eretz Yisroel, celebrated Jewish growth and continuity, and joined in brotherly song and dance.
It was truly a historic event, a turning point for the future of the Poconos region!
For information on the Mikvah’s services, to set an appointment, rent the kosher vacation home that subsidizes the Mikvah, or be part of making history through a Mikvah donation, please reach out to Mrs. Chana Newman at: 929-888-5757 or visit http://Poconomikvah.org
https://youtu.be/F34OY-mA6zE?si=JqRvd5Zl2uZRA9qD
Mazel tov to the Newmans and the Canadensis community on reaching this milestone. Truly an accomplishment to be proud of. And what a beautiful turnout of people across the religious spectrum.
Beautiful to see! Shout out to the bochurim involved in the construction work!
Kol hakavod, Chana! Beautiful mikvah!