At Chabad we are like a family!
Rosh Hashanah at the Holiday Inn Hotel in Mansfield, was where many friends – new and old – were treated to inspiring, upbeat services. The feeling of comradeship and unity, peppered with rabbi Yossi’s dose of humor and inspiration made it truly memorable. The crowds filled the house as we welcomed the year 5774.
We were delighted to be joined by Tzivi’s family. Rabbi Itkin’s enthusiasm and love was infectious and Mrs Itkin with her troop of girls served and hosted 6 magnificent meals and kiddushs over Rosh Hashanah and Shabbos.
Every moment of the days was powerful. More than 350 local Jews heard the call of the shofar!!
On the eve of Rosh Hashanah, the delicious dinner was highlighted by inspiring personal memories that were shared by some of the 50 wonderful guests.
After a 3-mile exhilarating walk on the first day of Rosh Hashanah, for the special tashlich service at Fultons pond, a warm and enthusiastic crowd of close to 100 people came to "throw their sins into the water." The shofar rang loudly and clearly and was followed by a very festive Chassidic ‘dance at the water.’
Some locals that couldn’t make it to Synagogue had a personal visit and Shofar blowing. May we all be blessed with good health and happiness.
Considered by many as the most important day of the year, Yom Kippur was attended by many “returning customers” as well as new participants. The best way to begin such a special day – was with a Mitzvah! Teffillin and Candle Lighting. The Hotel ballroom was then filled with song and meaningful prayers.
It was an honor to have in our midst Yossi’s father, Rabbi Kivman who joined the community for this special day.
Rabbi Yossi’s Yizkor speech challenged everyone to dig deeper into ourselves and discover the relevance of Torah in our lives. Howard gave a heartfelt appeal for the building fund of the new property that Chabad is attaining
Throughout the 25 hours and 5 prayer services, more than 300 joined in unison to connect with millions of Jews throughout the world asking Hashem for a good year for all.
Yom Kippur concluded with the traditional call of Shma and shofar blowing coupled with a lively dance and Chassidic Niggun (wordless song) march – with a feeling that we will surely be inscribed for a prosperous, healthy and nachas-filled year ahead. The bagels and lox spread (and pastries) will not be forgotten!
The Chazanim (cantors) klufgant and Rabbi Itkin led the crowd in song.
The holiday of Sukkos and Simchas Torah comes immediately after the High Holidays – at a perfect time. The joyous meals celebrated by locals and the Milford Chabad community were exhilarating. The all night dancing with the Torahs together with original Chabad Raps and ‘Shake it up Zaidy/bubby’ songs.
Seven years ago – there was barely a Sukkah or two in Mansfield, this year the greater Mansfield area saw more than TEN! The sukkos hop was fun and exciting. Each of the four Sukkos offered something unique: from dancing and l’cayim to games and stories at another, Pizza at Chabad to trampoline and ziplines at the Jacobs.
Thanks to everyone that helped before, after and during the holidays (in no special order): Chaya’le K., Shimon K., Mike and Cherie K., Chaya’le S., Jeff and Melanie M., Penina S., Jane L., Devorah Leah S., Rivky I., Alan S., Devorah Leah I., Howard S., Teresa M., Menucha I., Mazi T., Carol and Howie C., the staff at the Hotel, Muhky, Sarah’le and Mendel (great oratory skills) and of course Tzivi.