Last Wednesday, the women of the Upper East Side of Manhattan gathered together for an evening of unity, prayer and inspiration in honor of our brothers and sisters in Eretz Yisroel.
“Our response to great darkness is infinite light” was the theme of the evening.
The “UES Women’s Unity Event for Israel” was a powerful testament to the deep ties that bind this community to Eretz Israel. Spearheaded by Aleph Learning Center, Chabad of the Upper East Side and Manhattan Sephardic Congregation, and organized by the leaders of congregation Kehilath Jeshurun and Or Hachaim, the event was held at a Congregation Kehilath Jeshurun.
Over 700 women in attendance represented over 15 organizations and Synagogues in the area, along with over 25 Rebbetzins from Manhattan’s Upper East Side. From young professionals to seasoned retirees, the audience was bound by a shared commitment of solidarity and support.
The event kicked off with heartfelt prayers, led by Rebbetzins: Rachel Kraus, Judith Bleich, Lisa Steinmetz, Toby Einsidler, Chana Farhi and Avital Goldschmidt.
As a highlight to the program, women were encouraged by Rachel Benchimol to participate in the Women’s Mitzvah Campaign, where they were inspired to connect to each other by taking on a Mitzvah in honor of the safety of Eretz Yisroel.
Chanie Krasniansky shared the strength and vitality that comes when the Jewish nation is united. She underlined the importance of fortifying our homes, and our nation with the three mitzvot of a woman.
These foundational mitzvos were presented by Lisa Babich, Shani Skydell and Chanie Krasniansky.
In the closing remarks, Raizy Metzger shared the powerful and integral transformation that we are tasked with taking as we leave galut behind. As we push ourselves forward in taking on a mitzvah we create a personal redemption and ultimately the coming of the collective redemption.
As one woman shared, “The strength of unity in this room is truly inspiring. Witnessing women from all backgrounds come together for a cause we deeply care about is heartwarming.”
The event served as a reminder of the incredible power of Jewish women, and the positive effects that we can accomplish together.
The night concluded with a heartfelt musical production led by Shevy Vigler and Rachel Kraus, creating an atmosphere that exuded energy and unity.
The women of the Upper East Side left the event with lifted spirits, a renewed commitment to mitzvot, and a sense of belonging.
To view the campaign visit the website at onemitzvah.org/ues-womens-unity-campaign.
Would love to watch and get inspiration please