Preparations for Yud Shevat at Tomchei Temimim Zal – Chovevei Torah began a full month in advance with the launch of a special Mivtza initiated by the Yeshiva’s Shluchim. The vast majority of students participated, strengthening their commitment to Seder HaYeshiva, increasing diligence in their learning, memorizing Maamarim of Basi LeGani by heart, and attending Seder Sichos. The Bochurim were awarded significant stipends to be used for purchasing Seforim.
As the special day approached, the preparations intensified even further, with additional Shiurim and special early-morning learning – “Hashkem”, enhancing the atmosphere of anticipation.
The Shabbos preceding Yud Shevat was marked by a powerful Shabbos of Achdus, featuring a festive Shabbos meal attended by all the Talmidim, the Shluchim, and the Yeshiva’s Hanhala. On Motzaei Shabbos, a special Melave Malka took place, highlighted by a heartfelt Seder Niggunim Kumzitz led by Fitsche Ben-Shimon and Nechami Hecht, creating a warm and uplifting conclusion to Shabbos.
On the night of Yud Shevat, a central Farbrengen was held for the entire Yeshiva, led by Rabbi Shmuel Avtzon, Mashpia and member of the 770 Hanhala. On the following night, the eve of Yud-Alef Shevat, each class held a personal Farbrengen with its Mashpia.
During the day of Yud-Alef Shevat, the students attended a special Shiur delivered by Rabbi Braun, Mara D’Asra and member of the Crown Heights Beis Din, on the topic of Zmanim of Tefillah according to Chabad custom and Halacha. Following the Shiur, Rabbi Brown dedicated time to answering a wide range of Halachic questions posed by the Bochurim.
That afternoon, students from the Toronto Yeshiva Gedolah visited the Yeshiva to learn together and to participate in Rabbi Braun’s Shiur, further adding to the sense of unity and shared inspiration.
One student movingly summarized the experience: “I feel as though I traveled to the Rebbe from far away, arrived for Yud Shevat, and stayed involved until the very end. I always thought this feeling was only possible when one is out of town, but I discovered that it is possible to travel to the Rebbe even when one is physically nearby.”
for more pictures and info visit the Yeshiva website TomcheiZal.com
