3 months ago

Yeshivas Chayolei Beis Dovid: A Chanukah Journey of Light, Connection, and Growth

This Chanukah, the students of Yeshivas Chayolei Beis Dovid, a Chabad yeshiva that combines Torah learning with practical vocational skills, embarked on a transformative road trip across the Midwest • Full Story, Photos

This Chanukah, the students of Yeshivas Chayolei Beis Dovid, a Chabad yeshiva that combines Torah learning with practical vocational skills, embarked on a transformative road trip across the Midwest.

Their mission was twofold: to spread the joy and light of Moshiach and Chanukah to Jewish communities far and wide and to deepen their own connection to the Rebbe Melech HaMoshiach Shilo and Yiddishkeit. Along the way, the Bochurim not only illuminated the lives of others, but they also experienced profound growth, strengthening their own connection to the Rebbe Melech HaMoshiach and to each other as one unit.

The Journey Across the Midwest

Cleveland, Ohio — The first stop was downtown Cleveland, where the Bochurim performed mivtzoim—reaching out to Jewish passersby with menorahs, tefillin, and messages of light. Their presence in the city created a buzz of Jewish pride, as they reminded all they encountered of the joy and significance of the holiday.

Columbus, Ohio — The Bochurim brought Chayus and joy to the Menorah lighting at the Ohio Statehouse and continued with shturemdike Mivtzoim in Downtown Columbus, the Bochurim continued their mission, ensuring that every Jew in the community had the opportunity to celebrate Chanukah. Their visit was filled with menorah lightings and inspiring moments that uplifted everyone they met.

Cincinnati, Ohio — In Cincinnati, the Bochurim got to spend Shabbos full of Farbrengens at Yeshivas Lubavitch Cincinnati, followed by running out Menorahs Motzei Shabbos outside the Bengals stadium, lighting menorahs with Jewish fans and sharing the joy of the Chanukah.

Chicago, Illinois — Chicago saw the Bochurim organize a grand menorah parade through the city streets, distributing tens of menorahs to passersby. This vibrant display of Jewish pride captured the attention of many, leaving an unforgettable impression of unity and celebration.

Chesterfield and St. Louis, Missouri — The next stops were Chesterfield and St. Louis, where the Bochurim brought the light of Chanukah directly into Jewish homes. They lit menorahs with families and visited a shiva house, where they comforted a grieving family, recited Kaddish, and provided words of strength.

Springfield, Missouri — In Springfield, Missouri, the Bochurim once again lit up the streets with a menorah parade, Springfield’s first ever! They joined in the joy of a Jewish wedding, creating an atmosphere of celebration and Jewish unity.

Springfield, Illinois — The trip culminated in Springfield, Illinois, with a final Menorah parade and visits to Jewish homes to light menorahs. The Bochurim spent Shabbos together, engaging in Torah study and farbrengens that strengthened their bonds and deepened their connection to their mission.

On Sunday, they made a joyous Hei Teives Farbrengen at a home in Springfield during which they received the great news that Rabbi Shmuel Hendel, a member of Hanholo had become engaged, putting a rush on the return so that they can celebrate with him in person, and bringing the trip to a joyous ending.

The Logistics: A Journey Powered by Dedication and Innovation

The success of the trip was due in large part to the logistical ingenuity and hard work that went into organizing it. An RV was transformed into a Mitzvah tank, equipped with Menorahs, Siddurim, and all the necessities for spreading light on the go. A mini-bus was converted into a traveling kosher kitchen, ensuring that the Bochurim were able to enjoy hot meals while on the road, keeping the spirit of Chanukah alive even during long stretches of travel.

Acknowledgments and Gratitude

This journey was not just a mission—it was a collaborative effort that involved countless hours of planning and dedication. The students would like to extend heartfelt thanks to several individuals and groups whose contributions made the trip a success:

Shmuel Hendel, for his leadership and guidance throughout the journey. And Mendel Spielman, whose efforts helped make the trip run smoothly and efficiently. The Shluchim of the Yeshiva, for their unwavering support and commitment to the Bochurim. A special thank you to Shneur Dhane for all his help in the kitchen and as the emergency medical technician (EMT), ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone on the road.

A big thanks to the rest of the staff who joined the trip and worked tirelessly behind the scenes, contributing to the success of this remarkable journey.

A Journey of Light and Growth

While the trip was centered on spreading the light of Chanukah to others, it was also an incredible opportunity for the Bochurim to grow together, strengthening their own Yiddishkeit and Chassidishkeit. Through farbrengens, working together, and shared experiences, they deepened their connection to the Rebbe Melech HaMoshiach Shilo and their fellow Bochurim.

Looking Ahead

As the Bochurim return to their studies at Yeshivas Chayolei Beis Dovid, they carry with them the lessons and experiences of this unforgettable Chanukah journey.

For more information about Yeshivas Chayolei Beis Dovid or to support their initiatives, reach out to their administration. [email protected]