Rabbinic Delegation Visits the Former Soviet Union

By: Rachel Dayan

A diverse group of women filled the dome of Shaare Zion synagogue on a frigid January 4^thnight for an urgent community event entitled, “Shabbat – The Source of All Blessing.” The women gathered to learn how we can improve our level of Shabbat observance and our appreciation of the benefits of this special day, as a source of merit on behalf of the many patients in our community who are suffering from illness. Rabbi David Ozeri briefly introduced the topic, and was followed by the evening’s keynote speaker, Mrs. Dina Fink, who enthralled the women with a fascinating and passionate lecture.

Mrs. Terry Dwek, who organized the evening program along with Mrs. Rochelle Rudy, revealed the source of the inspiration to undertake this special project. She recalled the words of Rabbi Shlomo Diamond, that when we see tragedy strike in our community, Hashem is sending us a sign that we should do introspection. Illness does not just affect a few individuals; it hurts the entire community, and as a community we should listen to the message and think about what we can do to improve our conduct.

Participants received unique cards titled “Just This Shabbat,” listing practical ideas for improving the quality of our Erev Shabbat and Shabbat itself. Women are encouraged to select one or two points to focus on each week, so that the merit of their enhanced Shabbat observance will bring a complete and speedy recovery to all the ill patients of our community.