True leaders are those who put the needs of their community above their own, embodying selflessness and unwavering devotion. This timeless lesson can be seen in this week’s Torah portion, in the example of Moses and Aaron, who, despite their exemption from slavery in Egypt, stood up for the freedom of their brethren. Their leadership wasn’t about personal gain but about the collective good of the Jewish people.
This principle of selfless leadership continues to inspire today, particularly the remarkable actions of my fellow Chabad rabbis in Los Angeles during the wildfires that swept through whole neighborhoods. With their own homes at risk, they chose to prioritize the needs of others, ensuring that evacuees have shelter, food, and spiritual support. Their dedication exemplifies what it means to lead from a place of care and responsibility, putting the community first even in moments of personal crisis.
Pharaoh’s inability to understand Moses and Aaron’s selfless dedication highlights a critical misunderstanding of Jewish leadership. For us, leadership is not about status or power, but about shared responsibility and collective purpose. When one Jew suffers, we all feel the pain, and when we act with unity and selflessness, we can overcome even the greatest challenges.
May we all strive to be leaders in our own way, putting the needs of others before our own and strengthening the bonds of our community.
Shabbat shalom,
Rabbi Chaim & Chanie
The Cohen Corner
We're so happy and excited to have joined the Chabad of Uptown family! We look forward to many opportunities to learn, grow, celebrate and connect with this exceptional community.
Have a wonderful Shabbos,
Rabbi Yosef, Chanale, & Mushka Cohen
Shabbat Brings Fragile Respite to Fire-Ravaged Los Angeles
As the massive fires spreading through the greater Los Angeles area burn into a fourth day, Jews across the region are preparing for Shabbat amid the smoke, ash and rubble. Many are homeless, evacuated and in shock. But, like a beacon, Chabad centers in the affected areas are still operating, reaching out to community members, preparing food packages and gearing up for an influx of people at Shabbat services and meals. more…
THIS WEEK'S CLASSES:
- Shabbos, Jan. 11, 9 am - Chassidus - Torah Or
- Monday, Jan. 12, 8 pm - Hebrew Language: The Tanya with Rabbi Menny Raichik
- Wednesday, Jan. 15, 8 pm - YJP Dinner, Class & Social
- Thursday, August 16, 8 pm - The Heart of Prayer
SHABBOS PARSHAS SHEMOS
Fri., Jan. 17, 17 Teves
5:29 pm Light Shabbat Candles & Mincha
6:00 Kabbalat Shabbat
7:00 pm RSVP for Shabbat Dinner www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner
Shabbos, Jan 18, 18 Teves
9:00 am Chassidus
10:00 am Morning Services
Shabbat Lunch Kiddush
5:30 pm Mincha
Torah Study
6:26 pm Maariv, Havdalla and Shabbat Ends
Living Torah Video Magazine