This Shabbos, the 20th of Av, is the 80th yahrtzeit of Rabbi Levi Yitzchak Schneerson, father of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory. One of the preeminent talmudic and kabbalistic scholars of his time, Rabbi Levi Yitzchak served with unwavering dedication as the chief rabbi of Dnipropetrovsk, Ukraine, amidst the tumultuous era of the Bolshevik revolution and the oppressive grip of Communism. Despite the relentless persecution that sought to extinguish the flame of Jewish faith and practice, he stood resilient, fortifying Jewish learning and observance not only in his city but throughout the Soviet Union.
Tragically, his steadfast commitment led to his arrest, torture, and exile to a desolate village in Kazakhstan. Yet even as his physical strength waned, his indomitable spirit remained unbroken, shining as a testament to his faith until his untimely passing.
The seeds of his selfless endeavors were tenderly cultivated by his son and disciple, the Rebbe. Operating discreetly from afar, the Rebbe championed the cause of the Jews behind the Iron Curtain. The resurgence of Jewish life in the former Soviet Union stands as a powerful testament to Rabbi Levi Yitzchak’s unwavering dedication and the Rebbe’s tireless efforts.
But the impact of Rabbi Levi Yitzchak’s life and legacy extends far beyond Soviet Jewry. His example teaches us that Judaism can endure and thrive even under the harshest conditions. His life reminds us to hold steadfast to our faith, to stand proud in our Jewish identity, and to persevere in the face of adversity.
His teachings and way of life continue to inspire and guide us, illuminating the path forward for generations to come. May we draw strength from his legacy as we strive to uphold and spread the values he so cherished.
Shabbat shalom,
Rabbi Chaim & Chanie
MAGIC WAS IN THE AIR ✨ YJP Houston celebrated Tu B'Av in style at The White Party with Magical Illusionist Ben Cohen! 🎩 Houston Young Jewish Professionals came together for an unforgettable evening of laughter, networking, and wonder 🤩. Thanks for joining us for this special night of love, magic, and connection! 💕 Check out our photo gallery and relive the memories 📸
Mazel tov to Arielle Terk & Ziv Mesulati on the occasion of their wedding!
UPCOMING CLASSES AND LECTURES
- Shabbos, 9 am - Chassidus - Likkutei Torah - Kabbala Insights on the Parsha
- Wednesdays, 11 am - The Tanya - Meaning and Purpose of Life
- Wednesdays, 8 pm - YJP Dinner, Class & Social - Contemporary Themes
- Thursdays, 8 pm - The Heart of Prayer- In-depth unpacking the Siddur
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SHABBOS CHOF AV PARSHAS EIKEV
FRIDAY, AUGUST 23, 19 MENACHEM AV
7:30 pm Mincha & Kabbolas Shabbos
7:36 pm Shabbos Candle Lighting
SHABBOS, AUGUST 24, 20 MENACHEM AV
9:00 am Chassidus
10:00 am Shacharis
Shabbos Lunch Kiddush sponsored by the Mesulati family in honor of the Shabbat Chatan of Ziv & Arielle!
1:59 pm Earliest Mincha
Ethics of our Fathers, Chapter 5
8:29 pm Maariv, Havdalla & Shabbos Ends
Living Torah Video
SUNDAY, AUGUST 25, 21 MENACHEM AV
8:00 am Shacharis
MON.-FRI,, AUG 26-30, 22-26 MENACHEM AV
Shacharis 6:45 am
Good Shabbos!