This week we commemorated the birthday (in 1773) and yahrtzeit (in 1827) of Rabbi DovBer, the second Chabad Rebbe, also known as the Mitteler Rebbe.
One of his distinguishing traits was his ability to elaborate at great lengths on topics of Chassidic philosophy. He penned many voluminous manuscripts and would deliver long talks, leaving listeners spellbound by his every word. If his finger were to be cut, it was said, instead of blood a gush of Chassidism would emerge. It was the very essence of his being.
In this week’s Torah reading, Vayishlach, we read about Yaakov's unwavering commitment to his mission, balancing his spiritual endeavors with his physical responsibilities. His preparation for his encounter with his brother Esav — prayer, strategic planning, and gifts—reflects the harmonious blending of divine service with worldly engagement.
The Mitteler Rebbe exemplified this balance in his own life. His tireless efforts to teach and explain Chassidic philosophy were rooted in a deep awareness of every Jew’s essential and unbreakable connection to Torah. Just as Yaakov wrestled with an angel and emerged victorious, symbolizing the eternal strength of the Jewish soul, so does the Mitteler Rebbe’s legacy inspire us to reveal the inner depths of our connection to G-d and His Torah.
May we be inspired to strengthen our bond with Torah and mitzvos, tapping into the essence of who we are—a people intrinsically connected to Hashem through His wisdom, revealed in the teachings of Torah and Chassidism.
Shabbat shalom,
Rabbi Chaim & Chanie
Mazel tov to Baruch and Shani Shkertzi on birth of a baby girl!
UPCOMING COURSES & EVENTS
- Wednesdays, Dec. 18 – 7:30-9:00 pm - CYP Academy: Decisions of Fate - A Body's Dignity Can I donate my body to science? Cremate a loved one's body? Can an autopsy be performed? www.yjphouston.org/decisions4
- Wednesday, Dec. 25, First Night Chanukah - 3:30 pm - Uptown Menorah Lighting - Annual Post Oak Menorah Lighting in cooperation with the Uptown Houston District giant menorah lighting, Petting Zoo & Pony Rides, Chanukah Book Trail, Fresh Donuts, Latkes, Gelt and Drinks, Festive Music. RSVP required, free admission www.chabaduptown.org/light
- Friday, Dec. 27, Third Night Chanukah - 5:00 pm - Chanukah Shabbat Dinner - Chanukah Shabbat Dinner Uptown style, where spirits run high! Candle lighting at 5 pm, Shabbat services followed by dinner
- Saturday, Dec. 28, Fourth Night Chanukah - 8:30 pm - Young Jewish Professionals 20s & 30s party in style in "Candy Land", with themed drinks and music, dinner buffet, sufganiyot, and latkes. www.yjphouston.org/candyland
- Thurs.-Sun., Jan. 17-19 - Encounter Crown Heights Shabbaton - Join us as we head to NYC for the Encounter Crown Heights Shabbaton set to take place over MLK Weekend (Jan 17-19)! A weekend like no other, a chance to connect with hundreds Jewish young professionals from around the world and experience an unforgettable weekend in Crown Heights. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity! www.cypshabbat.nyc
SHABBOS PARSHAS VAYISHLACH
Fri., Dec. 13, 12 Kislev
5:06 pm Light Shabbat Candles
5:05 pm Mincha
5:30 Torah Study
6:00 pm Kabbalat Shabbat
RSVP for Shabbat Dinner www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner
Shabbos, Dec. 14, 13 Kislev
9:00 am Chassidus
10:00 am Morning Services
Shabbat Kiddush sponsored by Alex Wolansky in honor of his new life chapter and the Benjaminov Family marking the yartzeit of Margalit Rachel bat Adina a"h on 15 Kislev and Tuvia bat Rachel a"h on 17 Kislev
5:00 pm Mincha
Torah Study
6:03 pm Maariv, Havdalla and Shabbat Ends
Living Torah Video Magazine
Sunday, Dec. 15, 14 Kislev
8:30 am Shacharis