For over 1,900 years, Rabbanim have served as the mainstay of Yiddishkeit, guiding individuals through the milestones and challenges of a proper Jewish lifestyle.
But as the world changes, so do the sha’alos of the younger generation.
The newly married couple is looking for something different. The elter bochur wants more comprehensive answers to his questions. The mother of several teenagers needs guidance from someone who will understand.
And the question remains: do all Rabbis need to have long white beards?
A famous story comes to mind of Rabbi Elazar ben Azariah, discussed at length in the Haggadah. “I am like one who is 70 years of age,” says the well-known passage of the Pesach seder. In truth, Rabbi Elazar was only 18 years old when he rose to the status of “Head Rav.” Despite being qualified to take the position at such a young age, a miracle occurred and Rabbi Elazar grew a long white beard, so he would appear older and more dignified.
1,900 years ago, a man of status was only recognized with visible characteristics. But all of these years later, we should hope the qualifications have changed.
Kollel L’horaah Ma’asis was established with a clear mission: to train a new generation of young, approachable Rabbanim.
For the past 4 years, the Kollel has educated over 100 ambitious yungelite in a rigorous and curriculum-centered environment, training them in all areas of rabbanus and dayanus. The aspiring Rabbanim learn halacha l’maaseh with real, practical applications, unlike any other institution in Crown Heights. It was a void that needed to be filled. It was the future of our community.
Now, many of the Kollel’s alumni serve in Chabad communities across the USA and abroad, providing advice and guidance on a wide range of questions, from traditional sha’alos to those arising from modern-day scenarios.
Much has changed since Rabbi Elazar ben Azaryah’s leadership, but our values remain the same. Rabbanim are, and always will be, the pillars of the Jewish community. It’s up to us to ensure that they are approachable and accessible to everyone.
In today’s campaign, we urge the community to support the new generation of Rabbanim. Take Yiddishkeit into your own hands. Invest in Kollel L’horaah Ma’asis to narrate the next chapter of leadership. Do it for our community. Do it for our future!
