4 months ago

Ukrainian Shluchim Travel 18 Hours for Unity Shabbos

Shluchim and their families from across Ukraine traveled up to 18 hours due to severe winter weather to attend a Unity Shabbos in Dnipro, a much-needed respite from the ongoing harsh reality. In a surprise gesture of support, the Deputy Mayor of Dnipro attended on Friday night to honor the participants • Full Story, Photos

Dozens of Shluchim and their families from across Ukraine gathered this past Shabbos at the renowned Menorah JCC in the city of Dnipro for a historic and uplifting Shabbos of unity.

Together with their families, they participated in a rich Chassidic program and a wide range of workshops and activities.

Despite vast distances, ongoing security challenges, and complex conditions on the ground, rabbis and their families traveled from Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odesa, Kremenchug, Chernivtsi, Kryvyi Rih, Mykolaiv, and beyond. Some endured journeys of more than 18 hours due to severe winter weather and long travel routes within the country.

The special atmosphere was evident upon arrival, with a large welcome sign greeting participants to the Shabbos of Unity for Shluchim families in Ukraine. The host, Rabbi Shmuel Kaminetzky of Dnipro, together with his children and members of the local community, personally welcomed the guests.

Joining them were Rabbi Reuven Kaminetzky of the organizing committee, Rabbi Shlomo Salmon of Kremenchug, and Rabbi Simcha Lavanherz of Jewish Relief Network Ukraine (JRNU). The women were greeted by Mrs. Dina Salmon and Mrs. Sarah Stambler, members of the organizing committee.

Each received a personal gift package sponsored by JRNU, which stood behind the meticulous planning and organization of the event. The main hall featured impressive panels displaying the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s words about the mission of our generation to greet and bring about the Redemption.

The program included Torah and Chassidut classes, professional sessions, uplifting Chassidic gatherings, women’s workshops, children’s programming, inspiring prayer services, and festive meals.

Events began Thursday afternoon with the completion of a new Torah scroll that will be dedicated to the Jewish community of Mykolaiv, led by Rabbi Sholom Gottlieb. Thursday evening featured a special security workshop with a senior Ukrainian security official and a representative of Chabad’s CWA security and emergency network.

Shluchim also attended a comprehensive educational fair presented by JRNU and FJC’s thriving Or Avner school network. The fair highlighted year-round educational initiatives, including Sunday schools, afterschool programs, preschool and day school curricula, youth clubs, student activities, and humanitarian relief efforts. Rabbi Shlomo Neiman, director of FJC educational activities, presented detailed information to the participants.

At the same time, the children enjoyed a dedicated camp program with trips, attractions, and organized activities.

In a surprise gesture of support, the Deputy Mayor of Dnipro attended on Friday night to honor the participants. The Shabbos concluded with a festive and content-rich Melaveh Malka meal.

Rabbi Kaminetzky, who oversaw every detail of the gathering, personally thanked JRNU, Rabbi Shlomo Peles, and the Federation of Jewish Communities (FJC) for their extensive support of the Shabbos and their ongoing commitment to the Jewish communities of Ukraine throughout the year.