By COLlive reporter
The IDF Widows & Orphans Organization (IDFWO) has announced the appointment of Rabbi Shmuel Bistritzky, a Chabad Shliach and Rabbi of the Savyon town in central Israel, as its new rabbi and spiritual advisor.
Rabbi Bistritzky will serve as a halachic and spiritual guide for the organization and its members, offering counsel and guidance to widows, widowers, and orphans of Israel’s security forces.
The non-profit organization, recognized by the State of Israel, was established in 1991 and serves more than 8,000 widows and orphans. It provides financial aid, emotional and educational programs, and community activities to help bereaved families rebuild their lives.
The appointment follows nearly two years of close involvement between Rabbi Bistritzky and the organization, beginning on October 7. Together with his community, he assisted with donations, Passover preparations, and emotional and spiritual support at various events and camps.
Rabbi Bistritzky, who has devoted the past two decades to fostering unity and Jewish identity across Israel, is known for his popular Yahaduton book and video series that bring Jewish tradition to the wider public.
Addressing the unique challenges faced by bereaved families, Rabbi Bistritzky emphasized the importance of helping children navigate spiritual life in the absence of a parent. “A mother can make Kiddush on Friday night just like a father,” he said. “It’s important that widows know this. In homes with older siblings, you can even have a ‘Shabbat Father’ rotation, where each child takes a turn making Kiddush.”
He added: “These children have no father to help them don tefillin or wrap them in a tallis. All of us — the entire Jewish people — must step in and try to fill that space. These fathers gave their lives for all of us, and the least we can do is be there for their children — both in meaningful life moments and in everyday routines.”
The organization, led by CEO Shlomi Nahumson, concluded its announcement with a message to members: “If you have a halachic or spiritual question, Rabbi Bistritzky is now here with us — for you. You are not alone.”
I feel the pain as well. My son had no father to participate in his upsherin, don tefillin, wrap him in a talis or B’Ezrat Hashem walk him to the chupah so I know how it feels to be an almana and my son a Yatom for 24 years. I’d like to help. How can I make a donation please. May all the almanot and yetomim be comforted and know other people care.