08/08/2007
By Menasche Scharf
On the 50th yahrzeit of the holy Rebbe R' Aron of Belz zt"l, the central Belz beis hamedrash on Clapton Common was packed to capacity to commemorate the event . Participants arrived from many parts of town, after having seen the notices that were displayed in all shuls in North and North West London .
The main speaker Rabbi Shimon Hirschler Shlit"a, enthralled the gathering with anecdotes and insights pertaining the revered personality and elevated stature of the Ba'al Hahilula. He recounted how, when on a visit to London in the eighties Reb Sholom Shwadron zt"l, the legendary Yerushalmy Maggid retold a story which brought out the essence of the one whose sincere words penetrated the hearts of all who came into contact with him. Rabbi Yosef Lieberman Shlit"a of Yerusholayim, the brother in law of the Rebbe Zt"l told the following anecdote: Once during Shalosh Se'udos on the week preceding Rosh Chodesh Elul, he sat very near to the Rebbe and overheard him moaning to himself: "vos vet zyn mit meer, s'kumt shoyn Elul" - "what will become of me, Elul is upon us already", with the famous "Belzer Nussach". He recounted to Reb Sholom that ever since that Shalosh Se'udos - and this was thirty years later - whenever he hears proclaiming "Rosh Chodesh Elul yehyeh beyom...." on Shabbos Mevorchim Elul, his whole being is stirred to Teshuva - just from this sentence, which the Rebbe said to himself.
Dayan Babad Shlit"a, the Rabbi of the Belzer community in London recounted Divrei Torah from the saintly Rebbe. The Belzer Rosh Yeshiva Rabbi Yitzchok Rosengarten Shlit"a recounted stories that emphasised the refined middos, especially the purity of speech that were the hallmark of the Rebbe, he dwelled on the greatness and humility and how we in this generation could learn from this great Tzaddik's ways. Mr Naftoli Rokach of Golders Green bentched and the gathering finished with Ma'ariv after which the assembled departed on a high note of unity and preparedness for the oncoming Chodesh Elul and the holy days.
Thursday, July 23
Thursday, May 7
Reply To Frummer
I have been sent the folloiing link: http://frummer.blogspot.com/2006/02/no-place-to-call-home.html, to which I replied as follows:
to : offthederech@gmail.com
Re: please all fathers and mechanchim read it when you have time
Hi Tuli and all your co-irreligionists,
In response to your forwarded message, please allow me to have my say:
Once you generalise, you cross the border of decency, honesty and objectivity (not necessarily in this order).
The guy who wrote this (see below) obviously chose to discuss problems with like-minded people; this would never pass a score with the pollsters at Gallup, or any other self-respecting polling outfit.
Rather, stop accusing, abusing and refusing! Take the bull by the horn and bite the bullet! Read up on the source of all evil and learn how to tackle it.
By just placing an all-encompassing blanket accusation on a cosmic world of Torah, Chessed and Kedusha, some self destructing individuals seek to destroy others after having been destroyed themselves. If you can't join them don't beat them!
Even the most intelligent of the lot you mention in your superfluous and superficial thesis have yet to invest of their precious time to search for valid, solid - not sordid - answers. Assuming that these disenfranchised youngsters have not had the buttocks to keep their pants on a Yeshiva bench long enough to finisha Blatt Gefes (=acronym for: Gemoro, Perush Rashi and Tosafot) on their own - logic would dictate they could also not sit hours on end seeking solutions to their problems.
Rather they pick up vignettes and catch phrases from the street, from like-minded intellectuals who most of the time will hide behind a veneer of concern for their welfare and spew forth their venom in an acid like torrent. It is to be expected that they would use the generalisation they use, for there is still some self respect in the community and it will not be dragged down by the dreg of the bottomless pit called ba'aley aveyroh - to use a civilised term.
Now to the point: as with any other social issue, ther will always be diverging reasons as to what is/are the cause/s for a given problem. However, the writer of this missive has chosen to focus on a single issue and this can only mean : personal experience.
Yes, it is true that nowadays it is I N to be O U T,
Yes, it also true that the street is stronger than the home,
Yes, it is true that friends who dropped aside (!) seem to be having a good time
Yes, it is true that the kids will stand around you in - what you would consider - either awe or envy
Yes, it is true that the leaders of the community suddenly wake up to the fact that you really exist
Nevertheless, just stop and try to remember the one and maybe the only time in cheder, when you found the solution to a difficult question, when you scored above your average, when your brow was sweating in concentration - can you compare the timeless satisfaction to your current roller-coaster existence?
The root of the problem is purely mathematical:
New Family = Parnoso ---> Parnoso = Work ---> Child = More Parnoso More Parnoso = Hard Work ---> Hard Work = Stress ---> Children = More Parnoso ---> More Parnoso = Longer Hours --->
Longer Hours = More Stress ---> More Stress + More Children ---> Less Attention to Family & Friends ---> Latch-Door Family ---> Breakup of Family Unit.
Solution:
1) Prayer for Divine Help - after all, you believe in Him; otherwise you wouldn't rebel as strongly as you do...
2) Lower Materialistic Expectations - toghten your belt and buy less frivolous foodstuffs and fashion gear. Your credit scoring will also improve considerably...
3) Increase Attention to Family & Friends - renew your connection with and where you left off with, they are there for you waiting to give and forgive, emulating their Maker
4) Speak to those in the know: Rabbis - the ones whom you despise for whatever reason. Indeed, they knwo far more about anything you wanted to know and will answer your questions with patience. Remember to polish your shoes and improve your slang, after all, you would do this in front of a senator wouldn't you? You will be surprised how they will relate to you and your misgivings. Remember to objectively delete from your list Rabbis who have shown incompetence in dealing with issues affecting you.
If you have read until this point, choose one the four points and give it a chance.
Good luck and see you in Shul tomorrow!
to : offthederech@gmail.com
Re: please all fathers and mechanchim read it when you have time
Hi Tuli and all your co-irreligionists,
In response to your forwarded message, please allow me to have my say:
Once you generalise, you cross the border of decency, honesty and objectivity (not necessarily in this order).
The guy who wrote this (see below) obviously chose to discuss problems with like-minded people; this would never pass a score with the pollsters at Gallup, or any other self-respecting polling outfit.
Rather, stop accusing, abusing and refusing! Take the bull by the horn and bite the bullet! Read up on the source of all evil and learn how to tackle it.
By just placing an all-encompassing blanket accusation on a cosmic world of Torah, Chessed and Kedusha, some self destructing individuals seek to destroy others after having been destroyed themselves. If you can't join them don't beat them!
Even the most intelligent of the lot you mention in your superfluous and superficial thesis have yet to invest of their precious time to search for valid, solid - not sordid - answers. Assuming that these disenfranchised youngsters have not had the buttocks to keep their pants on a Yeshiva bench long enough to finisha Blatt Gefes (=acronym for: Gemoro, Perush Rashi and Tosafot) on their own - logic would dictate they could also not sit hours on end seeking solutions to their problems.
Rather they pick up vignettes and catch phrases from the street, from like-minded intellectuals who most of the time will hide behind a veneer of concern for their welfare and spew forth their venom in an acid like torrent. It is to be expected that they would use the generalisation they use, for there is still some self respect in the community and it will not be dragged down by the dreg of the bottomless pit called ba'aley aveyroh - to use a civilised term.
Now to the point: as with any other social issue, ther will always be diverging reasons as to what is/are the cause/s for a given problem. However, the writer of this missive has chosen to focus on a single issue and this can only mean : personal experience.
Yes, it is true that nowadays it is I N to be O U T,
Yes, it also true that the street is stronger than the home,
Yes, it is true that friends who dropped aside (!) seem to be having a good time
Yes, it is true that the kids will stand around you in - what you would consider - either awe or envy
Yes, it is true that the leaders of the community suddenly wake up to the fact that you really exist
Nevertheless, just stop and try to remember the one and maybe the only time in cheder, when you found the solution to a difficult question, when you scored above your average, when your brow was sweating in concentration - can you compare the timeless satisfaction to your current roller-coaster existence?
The root of the problem is purely mathematical:
New Family = Parnoso ---> Parnoso = Work ---> Child = More Parnoso More Parnoso = Hard Work ---> Hard Work = Stress ---> Children = More Parnoso ---> More Parnoso = Longer Hours --->
Longer Hours = More Stress ---> More Stress + More Children ---> Less Attention to Family & Friends ---> Latch-Door Family ---> Breakup of Family Unit.
Solution:
1) Prayer for Divine Help - after all, you believe in Him; otherwise you wouldn't rebel as strongly as you do...
2) Lower Materialistic Expectations - toghten your belt and buy less frivolous foodstuffs and fashion gear. Your credit scoring will also improve considerably...
3) Increase Attention to Family & Friends - renew your connection with and where you left off with, they are there for you waiting to give and forgive, emulating their Maker
4) Speak to those in the know: Rabbis - the ones whom you despise for whatever reason. Indeed, they knwo far more about anything you wanted to know and will answer your questions with patience. Remember to polish your shoes and improve your slang, after all, you would do this in front of a senator wouldn't you? You will be surprised how they will relate to you and your misgivings. Remember to objectively delete from your list Rabbis who have shown incompetence in dealing with issues affecting you.
If you have read until this point, choose one the four points and give it a chance.
Good luck and see you in Shul tomorrow!
Thursday, March 20
No Time For Complacency
Dear All,
Long time no speak, I was meant to send you an update of what's happening in
the world of Torah. Due to an extremely busy schedule, this was impossible.
Until now; due to the recent happenings I feel compelled to write,
there's no place for complacency and I sincerely hope that you will share this view.
The Sheloshim (lit. 30, meaning 30 days) of the eight Kedoshimh
(martyrs) from Yeshivat Merkaz HaRav falls on Sunday, 1 Nissan 5768
(6 April 2008).
However as the Halacha (Jewish Law) prohibits holding eulogies in that
month, in addition of it being Rosh Chodesh (lit. the Head of the Month),
the only alternative is to hold a Yom Kippur Koton (lit. mini Day of Atonement -
as is done in many Jewish communities on each and every Erev Rosh
Chodesh, before the beginning of the new month) on the previous Thursday.
It is worthwhile to point out that in a leap year - as in this year - we are in need
of more Tefillos, being that there is one more month than a regular year.
Furthermore it is the onset of the Bein haZemanim (lit. in between the terms),
when youngsters - and sometimes adults - are prone to expose themselves
to danger more than any other times during the year.
=======*=======*=======*=======*=======*=======
In light of all the above, I would like to ask you to approach your Rabbi,
community leader or other person with influence (i.e. editor, community
activist etc.) and propose to have a special session in Shul. Yeshiva and
School to reflect on this grave happening.
=======*=======*=======*=======*=======*=======
Please, if you have the means to forward this message to friends and family,
see instructions at the end of this message.
It would be ideal to combine the Yom Kippur Koton service combined with a
sermon to join in the collective mourning that we, as a people are going through
- especially when we need so many more Yeshuos (lit. salvation), amongst
others in the following areas:
- Help for the displaced Gush Katif residents
- Encouragement for Sderot's citizens - wherever they are
- Yemenite Jewish Community
- Syrian Jewish Community
- Other problems prevalent in our own communities
Let's all join in Tefillah (lit. prayer), without any walls that are dividing our
beautiful global community, it is about time we take down the barriers that
run along political or tribal lines. When every part of the Jewish world
aches for those unfortunate families of the murdered Bachurim (lit.
youngsters), the hurt and the anguish transcends petty divisive
considerations. This goes to show that in essence we're all ONE,
hailing from the same source, aiming for the same goals and hoping
for the same good - for all of the people of Israel.
It is a Segula (lit. charm) to recite Chapter 22 of Tehilim (lit. Psalms) on
Ta'anit Esther (lit. the Fast of Esther) - well over the fast.
See the attached Tehllim Diary for Adar II - very handy.
See: http://www.hakhel.info/TefillahShiurim/TefillahShiur2.mp3 - just a thought...
The updated directory of Shi'urim on Kol HaLoshon is now available
from: http://www.kolhalashon.com/
Wishing you a Happy Purim,
Menasche Scharf
To Forward this message, remember to place the eMail addresses of your
group list in the BCC field - this will prevent others from seeing your mailing list.
Include the REMOVE message though...
"
To be removed, just reply "REMOVE" in the subject."
Long time no speak, I was meant to send you an update of what's happening in
the world of Torah. Due to an extremely busy schedule, this was impossible.
Until now; due to the recent happenings I feel compelled to write,
there's no place for complacency and I sincerely hope that you will share this view.
The Sheloshim (lit. 30, meaning 30 days) of the eight Kedoshimh
(martyrs) from Yeshivat Merkaz HaRav falls on Sunday, 1 Nissan 5768
(6 April 2008).
However as the Halacha (Jewish Law) prohibits holding eulogies in that
month, in addition of it being Rosh Chodesh (lit. the Head of the Month),
the only alternative is to hold a Yom Kippur Koton (lit. mini Day of Atonement -
as is done in many Jewish communities on each and every Erev Rosh
Chodesh, before the beginning of the new month) on the previous Thursday.
It is worthwhile to point out that in a leap year - as in this year - we are in need
of more Tefillos, being that there is one more month than a regular year.
Furthermore it is the onset of the Bein haZemanim (lit. in between the terms),
when youngsters - and sometimes adults - are prone to expose themselves
to danger more than any other times during the year.
=======*=======*=======*=======*=======*=======
In light of all the above, I would like to ask you to approach your Rabbi,
community leader or other person with influence (i.e. editor, community
activist etc.) and propose to have a special session in Shul. Yeshiva and
School to reflect on this grave happening.
=======*=======*=======*=======*=======*=======
Please, if you have the means to forward this message to friends and family,
see instructions at the end of this message.
It would be ideal to combine the Yom Kippur Koton service combined with a
sermon to join in the collective mourning that we, as a people are going through
- especially when we need so many more Yeshuos (lit. salvation), amongst
others in the following areas:
- Help for the displaced Gush Katif residents
- Encouragement for Sderot's citizens - wherever they are
- Yemenite Jewish Community
- Syrian Jewish Community
- Other problems prevalent in our own communities
Let's all join in Tefillah (lit. prayer), without any walls that are dividing our
beautiful global community, it is about time we take down the barriers that
run along political or tribal lines. When every part of the Jewish world
aches for those unfortunate families of the murdered Bachurim (lit.
youngsters), the hurt and the anguish transcends petty divisive
considerations. This goes to show that in essence we're all ONE,
hailing from the same source, aiming for the same goals and hoping
for the same good - for all of the people of Israel.
It is a Segula (lit. charm) to recite Chapter 22 of Tehilim (lit. Psalms) on
Ta'anit Esther (lit. the Fast of Esther) - well over the fast.
See the attached Tehllim Diary for Adar II - very handy.
See: http://www.hakhel.info/TefillahShiurim/TefillahShiur2.mp3 - just a thought...
The updated directory of Shi'urim on Kol HaLoshon is now available
from: http://www.kolhalashon.com/
Wishing you a Happy Purim,
Menasche Scharf
To Forward this message, remember to place the eMail addresses of your
group list in the BCC field - this will prevent others from seeing your mailing list.
Include the REMOVE message though...
"
To be removed, just reply "REMOVE" in the subject."
Thursday, February 7
January - Local and other news round up
21/01/2008,
Dear all,
1. It's still not too late to say Parshas HaMon - An auspicious time to recite this is on Tuesday, the week of Parshas Beshalach
Visit: http://www.tefillos.com/parshas_hamon.asp
2. A Special Message from Project Awareness: VeAtem Tachrishun Week
THE SILENCE REVOLUTION - THE ANNUAL SHABBOS TACHARISHUN
The Shabbos of Parshas B’Shalach, Shabbos Shira, January 18/19, has once again been designated as an international Shabbos focusing on Kedushas Bais Haknesses and on spiritual awareness.
Parshas B’Shalach has been chosen based on the text in the Parsha, where Moshe Rabbeinu proclaims:
“Hashem Yilachem Lachem V’Atem Tacharishun” – you will be silent. Many Shuls and Batei Medrashim participate in this event. The idea is ever so simple – at least one Shabbos per year - Parshas Beshalach - participating Shuls make an all out effort to see that silence replaces chatter and davening replaces socializing.
The Rabbanim explain the purpose of this exercise and the Gabaim publicize it with posters and handouts.
Once a person has tasted the flavor of genuine Tefilah, there is every chance that he will be inspired to continue.
Surely Tefillah and respect for Tefillah as well as the House of Tefillah, can ensure that our Tefillos and those of our bretheren in Israel are accepted. Our best weapon is the mouth, the Kol of Yaakov.
Awareness has a message available in a poster form, as well as other ‘Awareness’ publications, inspirational videos, bookmarks & audio material, as well as a ‘Change The Way You Daven - Evening of Inspiration’ pack to enhance Tefillos and improve
synagogue decorum.
Contact us at: ‘AWARENESS’, POB 753, Monsey, NY 10952 845-362-8000 ext. 106, Fax 845-362-8008; email: isafrin@safrin-ins.com
3. Start Your Day the Torah Way, North London - For full listing of past Shiurim or a weekly update of forthcoming ones, please reply to this eMail with: "SYDTTW List"
4. TBT news - Join us in wishing TBT a mazal tov on their first anniversary - For the latest Shiurim, visit www.ourshiur.com
5. Mobile in Shuls news - look out for information in the local and international press: "How to manage your mobile in Shul"
6. Calculu training news - We will soon be launching our training catalog and programs - watch this space...
7. New Kol HaLoshon directory - you can now download it from:
http://www.kolhaloshon.com/index.pdf
8. Tehillim for Shevat PDF - if you want this month's Thellim calendar on PDF, reply with "Tehillim"
9. Kosher web news, if you haven't signed up for Jnet, KosherWeb or
other filters, try this:
http://www1.k9webprotection.com/resources/files/k9-parent-outreach-letter1.doc, which lets you filter out unwanted Internet sites like indecency, online gambling, violence, and other content. It's K9 Web Protection, from Blue Coat Systems and it's free for personal use. The program downloads quickly (less than a minute) and is easy to install.
10. A step in the right direction - if you want to prevent indecent content from your workplace, try the following: visit http://www.google.com/preferences and choose the Radio Button next to:
Use strict filtering (Filter both explicit text and explicit images)
11. The Mincha Guide is now out - if you live in the UK, reply with "Mincha Guide". For the rest of the world, visit:
http://www.godaven.com/minyanmaps.htm
Menasche Scharf
Torah Way - North London
Calculu Business Centre
Now for something wacky: http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/view/id/199
Thursday, January 3
Start Your Day The Torah Way
02 February 2007
The following list of Shiurim is for next week, 04/02/2007 to 10/02/2007 (British Date Format...) at Start Your Day the Torah Way - North London - enjoy!
Sunday GUEST SPEAKER
Monday Rabbi Betzalel Weiss
Tuesday Rabbi Nachman Sudak
Wednesday Rabbi Moshe Margulies
Thursday Rabbi Ben Zion Stempel
Friday Rabbi Aharon Flohr
These can be listened to on Kol HaLoshon by dialling
any of the International Local Access Numbers below:
Antwerp Belgium (32) 3 747-0330
Baltimore: (443) 957-4610
Chicago: (773) 649-1057
Cleveland: (216) 539-4554
Eretz Yisroel (English): (3) 617-1095
Eretz Yisroel (Hebrew): (3) 617-1111
Eretz Yisroel (Local): (03) 915-5637
Florida: (954) 719-0600
Lakewood: (732) 719-3374
Melbourne Australia (613) 8807-4749
Mexico (English) (52) 55-5351-2476
Mexico (Spanish) (52) 55-5351-2666
Monsey: (845) 678-3337
Montreal: (514) 664-1304
New York (English): (718)906-6400
New York (Yiddish): (718)906-6420
New York (-חפץ חיים): (718)906 6450
Paris France (33) 1 7281 3016
Toronto: (647) 722-8736
United Kingdom (44) 161 798 5500
Free שיעורים also include: International and local שיעורים for women and children and more.
Start Your Day The Torah Way - North London
Calculu Business Centre
LONDON N16 6DB
T: +44 08456 98 00 44
The following list of Shiurim is for next week, 04/02/2007 to 10/02/2007 (British Date Format...) at Start Your Day the Torah Way - North London - enjoy!
Sunday GUEST SPEAKER
Monday Rabbi Betzalel Weiss
Tuesday Rabbi Nachman Sudak
Wednesday Rabbi Moshe Margulies
Thursday Rabbi Ben Zion Stempel
Friday Rabbi Aharon Flohr
These can be listened to on Kol HaLoshon by dialling
any of the International Local Access Numbers below:
Antwerp Belgium (32) 3 747-0330
Baltimore: (443) 957-4610
Chicago: (773) 649-1057
Cleveland: (216) 539-4554
Eretz Yisroel (English): (3) 617-1095
Eretz Yisroel (Hebrew): (3) 617-1111
Eretz Yisroel (Local): (03) 915-5637
Florida: (954) 719-0600
Lakewood: (732) 719-3374
Melbourne Australia (613) 8807-4749
Mexico (English) (52) 55-5351-2476
Mexico (Spanish) (52) 55-5351-2666
Monsey: (845) 678-3337
Montreal: (514) 664-1304
New York (English): (718)906-6400
New York (Yiddish): (718)906-6420
New York (-חפץ חיים): (718)906 6450
Paris France (33) 1 7281 3016
Toronto: (647) 722-8736
United Kingdom (44) 161 798 5500
Free שיעורים also include: International and local שיעורים for women and children and more.
Start Your Day The Torah Way - North London
Calculu Business Centre
LONDON N16 6DB
T: +44 08456 98 00 44
BACK TO SCHOOL
By Kriendy Scharf
Call it a helter skelter or a roller coaster. Whatever it is you know the feeling, Your stomach drops with every twist and turn. You stare ahead at the enormous rails you are about to climb and your heart leaps to your throat as you contemplate the plunge you are about to take.
It might surprise some of you to know that those very same sensations are not exclusive to roller coaster rides at an amusement park. There are students who experience great feelings of trepidation on their first day of returning to school after the summer vacation. Students have shared their fears, mixed with excitement to such an extent that they toss and turn in their beds the night before the great day BACK TO SCHOOL.
In case you’re thinking “Oh not to be a student and cease having to go through
At least Mrs Jacobs is doing something positive to help ease those BACK TO SCHOOL jitters. Better than bashing about in your bed worrying and looking worn out on a day when you really wan to look your best and make a good impression. After all, as the saying goes “you never get a second chance to make a first impression”
I have spoken to several teachers and asked them how they like
You might the following information handy.
Teachers like their students to be well prepared and organised. Have your relevant equipment ready. Have your items neatly name labelled. That will show that you look after your belongings. Your books wrapped - it does not have to have the latest Winnie the Pooh pictures or Smiley Face theme in order to IMPRESS. Clearly written names and subject title on durable stickers are more important. Will you be able to identify quickly and easily which book is Kodesh and whichep the teacher waiting whilst you rummage about in your desk, locker or rucksack? Don’t forget those dreaded words “okay students which row will be ready first this time?”
Have your hair neatly tied back. If you are due to have your haircut have it done before the first day BACK TO SCHOOL. Above all make sure not to miss that first day by having some appointment scheduled because “anyway not much learning is done on that day”. Esty A from London shared her experience of an entire school year that went “bad” because she missed the crucial first day rules and expectations given by her form teacher. When she did something out of context on the second day of school she felt immediately in her teacher’s bad books and was too embarrassed to explai
What do I advise students to do to make a good impression on that first day BACK TO SCHOOL?
Mrs G a headteacher of a secondary school for many years shared the following with me.
New students who come back after the holidays and enter the school boisterously as though they own the building put up a very bad front. She likes to see students subdued and serious and prepared to accept authority. In her orientation assembly she confided, she notices immediately the students who in their way are privately making mental decisions on which rules they agree with and which ones they would not implement if they were running the school. If you wan to make that first impression of yourself a good one s
So, you’ve prepared every thing including snack and sandwiches and had your shower the night before.Your hair is fresh and tidy and you’ve said extra Tehilim. You are full of good resolutions. Your books and briefcase will be neat and tidy the entire year. You will leave early every day. This time your report card will display only A’s and your behaviour will make your parents and grandparents glow with pleasure.
It won’t work says Mrs V a teacher of many years (and former student). Decide upon one weakness you wish to work on. Make that your year’s resolution. write it on several
After all as as a student your obligations are many. You would like to do well in your studies. You want to become a better person. You also wish to be accepted socially. No wonder you had to have an eight week vacation. The English students have had to cram all their resolutions within a mere five weeks. Perhaps they are just quicker thinkers....
Call it a helter skelter or a roller coaster. Whatever it is you know the feeling, Your stomach drops with every twist and turn. You stare ahead at the enormous rails you are about to climb and your heart leaps to your throat as you contemplate the plunge you are about to take.
It might surprise some of you to know that those very same sensations are not exclusive to roller coaster rides at an amusement park. There are students who experience great feelings of trepidation on their first day of returning to school after the summer vacation. Students have shared their fears, mixed with excitement to such an extent that they toss and turn in their beds the night before the great day BACK TO SCHOOL.
In case you’re thinking “Oh not to be a student and cease having to go through
At least Mrs Jacobs is doing something positive to help ease those BACK TO SCHOOL jitters. Better than bashing about in your bed worrying and looking worn out on a day when you really wan to look your best and make a good impression. After all, as the saying goes “you never get a second chance to make a first impression”
I have spoken to several teachers and asked them how they like
You might the following information handy.
Teachers like their students to be well prepared and organised. Have your relevant equipment ready. Have your items neatly name labelled. That will show that you look after your belongings. Your books wrapped - it does not have to have the latest Winnie the Pooh pictures or Smiley Face theme in order to IMPRESS. Clearly written names and subject title on durable stickers are more important. Will you be able to identify quickly and easily which book is Kodesh and whichep the teacher waiting whilst you rummage about in your desk, locker or rucksack? Don’t forget those dreaded words “okay students which row will be ready first this time?”
Have your hair neatly tied back. If you are due to have your haircut have it done before the first day BACK TO SCHOOL. Above all make sure not to miss that first day by having some appointment scheduled because “anyway not much learning is done on that day”. Esty A from London shared her experience of an entire school year that went “bad” because she missed the crucial first day rules and expectations given by her form teacher. When she did something out of context on the second day of school she felt immediately in her teacher’s bad books and was too embarrassed to explai
What do I advise students to do to make a good impression on that first day BACK TO SCHOOL?
Mrs G a headteacher of a secondary school for many years shared the following with me.
New students who come back after the holidays and enter the school boisterously as though they own the building put up a very bad front. She likes to see students subdued and serious and prepared to accept authority. In her orientation assembly she confided, she notices immediately the students who in their way are privately making mental decisions on which rules they agree with and which ones they would not implement if they were running the school. If you wan to make that first impression of yourself a good one s
So, you’ve prepared every thing including snack and sandwiches and had your shower the night before.Your hair is fresh and tidy and you’ve said extra Tehilim. You are full of good resolutions. Your books and briefcase will be neat and tidy the entire year. You will leave early every day. This time your report card will display only A’s and your behaviour will make your parents and grandparents glow with pleasure.
It won’t work says Mrs V a teacher of many years (and former student). Decide upon one weakness you wish to work on. Make that your year’s resolution. write it on several
After all as as a student your obligations are many. You would like to do well in your studies. You want to become a better person. You also wish to be accepted socially. No wonder you had to have an eight week vacation. The English students have had to cram all their resolutions within a mere five weeks. Perhaps they are just quicker thinkers....
Thursday, December 27
Shana Tova
12 September 2007
Dear all,
Another year with even more news! Read all about it here.
With the approaching new year 5768, we wish all of Kellal Yisroel
שנה טובה ומתוקה, כתיבה וחתימה טובה
Local and other news round up:
1. Rabbi Osher Shapiro, of Kol Bonayich started a new Daf Yomi Shiur.
Location : The Karlin-Stoliner Shtiebel at 4 Castlewood Road, LONDON N16
Time : Daily 7:30AM, followed by Shacharis at 8:00AM, followed by Breakfeast
Language: English
2. TBT (Tiferes Benei Torah) started a new daily Gemorroh Shiur.
Location : The South Tottenham District Synagogue at 111-113 Crowland Road, LONDON N15 6UR
See the following url for map (indicated with yellow arrow) : http://www.streetmap.co.uk/newmap.srf?x=533953&y=188637&z=0&sv=N15%206UR&st=PostCode&lu=N&tl=~&ar=y&bi=~&mapp=newmap.srf&searchp=newsearch.srf
Time : 7:50AM until 8:30AM
Language: Yiddish
3. TBT - the weekly Hashkofo Shiur
Same location as 2.
Time : Every Wednesday from 8:15PM until 9:00PM
Language: Yiddish
Also available on Kol HaLoshon
4. TBT - the weekly Halocho Shiur: The Laws of Shabbos
Same location as 2.
Time : Every Thursday from 8:15PM until 8:45PM
Language: Yiddish
Also available on Kol HaLoshon
5. Start Your Day the Torah Way - North London
Location: The Biala Shtiebel at 110 Castlewood Road, LONDON N15
Time: Every weekday from 9:20AM until 10:00AM
Language: English
Also available on Kol HaLoshon
Diary for next week, Asseres Yemey Teshuva:
Sunday 16/09/2007: Rabbi M. Posen
Monday 17/09/2007: Rabbi Mordechai Fein
Tuesday 18/09/2007: GUEST SPEAKER
Wednesday 19/09/2007: Rabbi Gavriel Menashe Lamm
Thursday 20/09/2007: Rabbi Doniel De Lange
Friday 21/09/2007: Rabbi Avrohom Zonsajn
6. Mekadshey Sheviyi - The Leyl Shishi Drosho
Rabbi Hershel Eckstein on the Weekly Parsha
Location: The Belzer Shtiebel, 96-98 Clapton Common, LONDON E5
Language: Yiddish
Also available on Kol HaLoshon
7. Yom Tefillah - A Day of Prayer - As Featured in Kol Mevaser.
Like every year, there will be a massive prayer rally for all Cheder Yinglach (=junior school boys).
There are two separate events in London, North West and North London
The North London gathering will take place in the Skver Shul, which has recently been beautifully renovated.
Fathers are expected to bring their boy/s along from Kittah Heh (fifth grade) and up.
Local Rabbonim and Dayonim are also expected to participate. The Ladies' Section will be open.
Every boy attending will receive a snack, a Kol HaLoshon Instruction Card and a "Kavonos Kadish" Sticker,
(if you want a sticker/s, please send S.A.E. with a $1.00 bill or £1.00 charity voucher to: Calculu Business Centre, LONDON N16 6BD)
8. Start Your Day The Torah Way - NEW FOR 5768!
We're looking for English speaking chevra who would be interested in joining an early morning shiur at the Brenner Centre, Stamford Hill.
Free Coffee, Parking and Possibly Breakfast...
Any suggestions as to suitable times (i.e. 6:20AM, 8:20AM etc.) and duration (i.e. 30 minutes, 40 minutes, 1 hour etc.) are welcome.
9. Check out new books at : www.devorapublishing.com, http://www.pitspopany.com, http://simchapublishing.com and http://www.koren-publishers.co.il/HTMLs/article_en.aspx?C2063=12637&BSP=12483&BSS585=12637&BSCP=12483&BSS295=12648
10. New Shtiebel in South Tottenham!
Look out for the news...
11. Flood Emergency Fund
Property Safety is proud to be sponsoring the Emergency Fund drive, run by Oxford University Chabad Society in Oxford:
http://www.oxfordchabad.org/templates/articlecco.htm/aid/542641/jewish/Flood-Relief-Helpline.html
12. Due to technical difficulties (also known as "teething problems) there was a delay in setting up the download station for MP3, iPod and sound files of Kol HaLoshon Shiurim in North London. In the mean time, see attached schedule of Kol HaLoshon Shiurim.
13. Fo more information abou the Calculu Training Centre's products, email us.
14. Kosher Web Surfing anyone?
If you are interested, please eMail us.
If you would like us to remove your eMail address from our eMailing list, please reply with: "REMOVE" in the Subject Field.
Wacky ideas, courtesy of Calculu Business Centre:
www.dymogoldenticket.com
http://www.nobomarkers.com/promo/
Dear all,
Another year with even more news! Read all about it here.
With the approaching new year 5768, we wish all of Kellal Yisroel
שנה טובה ומתוקה, כתיבה וחתימה טובה
Local and other news round up:
1. Rabbi Osher Shapiro, of Kol Bonayich started a new Daf Yomi Shiur.
Location : The Karlin-Stoliner Shtiebel at 4 Castlewood Road, LONDON N16
Time : Daily 7:30AM, followed by Shacharis at 8:00AM, followed by Breakfeast
Language: English
2. TBT (Tiferes Benei Torah) started a new daily Gemorroh Shiur.
Location : The South Tottenham District Synagogue at 111-113 Crowland Road, LONDON N15 6UR
See the following url for map (indicated with yellow arrow) : http://www.streetmap.co.uk/newmap.srf?x=533953&y=188637&z=0&sv=N15%206UR&st=PostCode&lu=N&tl=~&ar=y&bi=~&mapp=newmap.srf&searchp=newsearch.srf
Time : 7:50AM until 8:30AM
Language: Yiddish
3. TBT - the weekly Hashkofo Shiur
Same location as 2.
Time : Every Wednesday from 8:15PM until 9:00PM
Language: Yiddish
Also available on Kol HaLoshon
4. TBT - the weekly Halocho Shiur: The Laws of Shabbos
Same location as 2.
Time : Every Thursday from 8:15PM until 8:45PM
Language: Yiddish
Also available on Kol HaLoshon
5. Start Your Day the Torah Way - North London
Location: The Biala Shtiebel at 110 Castlewood Road, LONDON N15
Time: Every weekday from 9:20AM until 10:00AM
Language: English
Also available on Kol HaLoshon
Diary for next week, Asseres Yemey Teshuva:
Sunday 16/09/2007: Rabbi M. Posen
Monday 17/09/2007: Rabbi Mordechai Fein
Tuesday 18/09/2007: GUEST SPEAKER
Wednesday 19/09/2007: Rabbi Gavriel Menashe Lamm
Thursday 20/09/2007: Rabbi Doniel De Lange
Friday 21/09/2007: Rabbi Avrohom Zonsajn
6. Mekadshey Sheviyi - The Leyl Shishi Drosho
Rabbi Hershel Eckstein on the Weekly Parsha
Location: The Belzer Shtiebel, 96-98 Clapton Common, LONDON E5
Language: Yiddish
Also available on Kol HaLoshon
7. Yom Tefillah - A Day of Prayer - As Featured in Kol Mevaser.
Like every year, there will be a massive prayer rally for all Cheder Yinglach (=junior school boys).
There are two separate events in London, North West and North London
The North London gathering will take place in the Skver Shul, which has recently been beautifully renovated.
Fathers are expected to bring their boy/s along from Kittah Heh (fifth grade) and up.
Local Rabbonim and Dayonim are also expected to participate. The Ladies' Section will be open.
Every boy attending will receive a snack, a Kol HaLoshon Instruction Card and a "Kavonos Kadish" Sticker,
(if you want a sticker/s, please send S.A.E. with a $1.00 bill or £1.00 charity voucher to: Calculu Business Centre, LONDON N16 6BD)
8. Start Your Day The Torah Way - NEW FOR 5768!
We're looking for English speaking chevra who would be interested in joining an early morning shiur at the Brenner Centre, Stamford Hill.
Free Coffee, Parking and Possibly Breakfast...
Any suggestions as to suitable times (i.e. 6:20AM, 8:20AM etc.) and duration (i.e. 30 minutes, 40 minutes, 1 hour etc.) are welcome.
9. Check out new books at : www.devorapublishing.com, http://www.pitspopany.com, http://simchapublishing.com and http://www.koren-publishers.co.il/HTMLs/article_en.aspx?C2063=12637&BSP=12483&BSS585=12637&BSCP=12483&BSS295=12648
10. New Shtiebel in South Tottenham!
Look out for the news...
11. Flood Emergency Fund
Property Safety is proud to be sponsoring the Emergency Fund drive, run by Oxford University Chabad Society in Oxford:
http://www.oxfordchabad.org/templates/articlecco.htm/aid/542641/jewish/Flood-Relief-Helpline.html
12. Due to technical difficulties (also known as "teething problems) there was a delay in setting up the download station for MP3, iPod and sound files of Kol HaLoshon Shiurim in North London. In the mean time, see attached schedule of Kol HaLoshon Shiurim.
13. Fo more information abou the Calculu Training Centre's products, email us.
14. Kosher Web Surfing anyone?
If you are interested, please eMail us.
If you would like us to remove your eMail address from our eMailing list, please reply with: "REMOVE" in the Subject Field.
Wacky ideas, courtesy of Calculu Business Centre:
www.dymogoldenticket.com
http://www.nobomarkers.com/promo/
2nd Anniversary of Start Your Day The Torah Way - North London
21/08/2007
A short run-down of proceedings:
Chairman: Mr Aron Factor, who welcomed the guests, thanked all
supporters who give off their precious time and donors who help out
financially and gave a general overview
Introduction: Rabbi Ezriel Schechter, who also gave the main Shiur in
the morning before the celebration
Speech by: resident Rabbi Emanuel Levy, who added a plea to the
community that his hall and adjacent catering facilities are readily
available for all year round functions like Bar Mitzvha's, Sheva
Brochos, Anniversaries and the like. The hall is halfway between North
and North West London's Frum communities.
Songs Rendition: Chazzan Leiby Margulies from Gateshead led the
assembly in singing for the occasion
* Main Drosho: Rabbi Avrohom Katz, who entertained in his inimitable
style, engaged their brains in tongue twisters and brain teasers using
mnemonics, abbreviations and other exercises in Loshon Hakodesh and
English on the subject of Emes and Torah.
Main organiser of the event: Rbbi Moshe Margulies, Rosh Kollel Yad
Torah in Stamford Hill, who saw to all the logistics and a special
thanks to the Rebbetzin of the Shul, Mrs Levy who oversaw the catering
operation.
Acoustics: Rabbi Yechiel Fogel, who ensures a undisrupted supply of
speakers all year round also ensured that the loudspeakers - courtesy
of Mr Nachman Matyas - should be in place and working.
Securtiy: Thanks to the CST, the guest were looked after very well BS"D.
A short run-down of proceedings:
Chairman: Mr Aron Factor, who welcomed the guests, thanked all
supporters who give off their precious time and donors who help out
financially and gave a general overview
Introduction: Rabbi Ezriel Schechter, who also gave the main Shiur in
the morning before the celebration
Speech by: resident Rabbi Emanuel Levy, who added a plea to the
community that his hall and adjacent catering facilities are readily
available for all year round functions like Bar Mitzvha's, Sheva
Brochos, Anniversaries and the like. The hall is halfway between North
and North West London's Frum communities.
Songs Rendition: Chazzan Leiby Margulies from Gateshead led the
assembly in singing for the occasion
* Main Drosho: Rabbi Avrohom Katz, who entertained in his inimitable
style, engaged their brains in tongue twisters and brain teasers using
mnemonics, abbreviations and other exercises in Loshon Hakodesh and
English on the subject of Emes and Torah.
Main organiser of the event: Rbbi Moshe Margulies, Rosh Kollel Yad
Torah in Stamford Hill, who saw to all the logistics and a special
thanks to the Rebbetzin of the Shul, Mrs Levy who oversaw the catering
operation.
Acoustics: Rabbi Yechiel Fogel, who ensures a undisrupted supply of
speakers all year round also ensured that the loudspeakers - courtesy
of Mr Nachman Matyas - should be in place and working.
Securtiy: Thanks to the CST, the guest were looked after very well BS"D.
Full Steam ahead for Start Your Day the Torah Way!
14/11/2007
The winter has barely started but the growing numbers attending the Shiurim are undaunted by the changing of the clock, nor by the change in the weather.
The winter has barely started but the growing numbers attending the Shiurim are undaunted by the changing of the clock, nor by the change in the weather.
Attendance for the daily morning Shiur in English was at a peak when the Farewell Speech from Rabbi Yaacov Mordechai Gee, (formerly Rosh HaKollel of Pinter Kollel?) was given, attended by Dayan Dunner, Dayan Grynhaus and Dayan Babad.
Dayan Dunner expressed the emotions from all present for having to part from such an esteemed member of the Stamford Hill community, reminiscing on the days when Rabbi Gee as a yeshiva bochur left England to learn in Lakewood under the legendary Rabbi Aron Kotler ob"m.
The future programme of Shiurim is being influenced by the influx of ever more English speaking emissaries from abroad who give of their free time to share a Torah thought with our attendees.
The weekly highlight is Sunday when a larger audience is in attendance, indeed this coming Sunday we expect a larger than usual public to come and listen to a lecture by Rabbi Sudak, spiritual head of the UK Chabad community, who has offered his valuable time even with his recent weak health.
For Chanukkah, there is an impressive lineup of speakers that will usher in the higher sprits of Chanukkah with original Torah discourses to elevate their listeners to experience 'finding the oil = Torah Wisdom' in our days.
It is hoped that many people who until now were unable to attend and perhaps have followed recorded Shiurim by using the Kol HaLoshon system, will now attempt to find the time in their daily schedules to attend in person.
Start Your Day the Torah Way News
For immediate release
South Tottenham, 13 August 2007
Start Your Day the Torah Way - North London celebrates its second anniversary.
By Menasche Scharf,
This coming Sunday, like every other Sunday over the past two years, there will be a Shiur given at the Biala Beis Hamedrash on Castlewood Road, from 9:20AM till 10:00AM.
But to mark the program’s second anniversary, as a result of the active input of the indefatigable Rabbi Moshe Margulies - who is the mainstay of the Shiur throughout the year - there will be an added portion of Torah learning this Sunday in celebration of this milestone.
Following the regular Shiur, members who have had the pleasure of completing another year of delightful learning of a wide range of varied and interesting Torah topics on a daily basis - will be joined by the programs distinguished and dedicated speakers - who freely give of their precious time to disseminate Torah - in celebrating the second anniversary of Torah Way - North London.
This celebration will take place at the Palmers Green and Southgate Shul Hall, on Brownlow Road N11, at the kind invitation of Rabbi Emanuel Levy, who is a regular speaker at Start Your Day The Torah Way - North London. Free transportation to the hall will be provided from the Biala Beis Hamedrash after the regular Shiur and light refreshments will be laid out in situ in the Shul Hall.
The event will be addressed by Guest Speaker Rabbi Avrohom Katz, Principal of the Beis Chaya Rochel Seminary in Gateshead - who is coming down especially for the occasion, and by Rabbi Emmanuel Levy, the Rov of Palmers Green Shul.
Rabbi Katz will also be speaking at Start Your Day the Torah Way - North West London, after which he will proceed to the anniversary event. Regular listeners from North West London have expressed an interest in attending the anniversary and indeed, the general public as well as attendees from Start Your Day the Torah Way in North West London, Edgware and - if they happen to be in London - Antwerp, Gateshead and Manchester are all welcome.
Start Your Day the Torah Way is an Adult Learning Program that was established
in Manchester about four years ago by people who wanted to literally Start their Day the Torah Way.
Since its inception, the shiurim (in English) have sprung up in North and North West London, Gateshead, Edgware, and Antwerp has also followed suit, with its unique
style: in Yiddish.
Recordings of past shiurim are available on four channels of the Kol HaLoshon Torah telephone sytem, accessible with a local dial-up number from major Jewish communities worldwide and are also available in various digital formats. - for more information please email: info@calculu.co.uk.
To unsubscribe, reply with UNSUBSCRIBE in the subject.
South Tottenham, 13 August 2007
Start Your Day the Torah Way - North London celebrates its second anniversary.
By Menasche Scharf,
This coming Sunday, like every other Sunday over the past two years, there will be a Shiur given at the Biala Beis Hamedrash on Castlewood Road, from 9:20AM till 10:00AM.
But to mark the program’s second anniversary, as a result of the active input of the indefatigable Rabbi Moshe Margulies - who is the mainstay of the Shiur throughout the year - there will be an added portion of Torah learning this Sunday in celebration of this milestone.
Following the regular Shiur, members who have had the pleasure of completing another year of delightful learning of a wide range of varied and interesting Torah topics on a daily basis - will be joined by the programs distinguished and dedicated speakers - who freely give of their precious time to disseminate Torah - in celebrating the second anniversary of Torah Way - North London.
This celebration will take place at the Palmers Green and Southgate Shul Hall, on Brownlow Road N11, at the kind invitation of Rabbi Emanuel Levy, who is a regular speaker at Start Your Day The Torah Way - North London. Free transportation to the hall will be provided from the Biala Beis Hamedrash after the regular Shiur and light refreshments will be laid out in situ in the Shul Hall.
The event will be addressed by Guest Speaker Rabbi Avrohom Katz, Principal of the Beis Chaya Rochel Seminary in Gateshead - who is coming down especially for the occasion, and by Rabbi Emmanuel Levy, the Rov of Palmers Green Shul.
Rabbi Katz will also be speaking at Start Your Day the Torah Way - North West London, after which he will proceed to the anniversary event. Regular listeners from North West London have expressed an interest in attending the anniversary and indeed, the general public as well as attendees from Start Your Day the Torah Way in North West London, Edgware and - if they happen to be in London - Antwerp, Gateshead and Manchester are all welcome.
Start Your Day the Torah Way is an Adult Learning Program that was established
in Manchester about four years ago by people who wanted to literally Start their Day the Torah Way.
Since its inception, the shiurim (in English) have sprung up in North and North West London, Gateshead, Edgware, and Antwerp has also followed suit, with its unique
style: in Yiddish.
Recordings of past shiurim are available on four channels of the Kol HaLoshon Torah telephone sytem, accessible with a local dial-up number from major Jewish communities worldwide and are also available in various digital formats. - for more information please email: info@calculu.co.uk.
To unsubscribe, reply with UNSUBSCRIBE in the subject.
Local and other news round up - Read all about it here
Dear all,
Another newsletter with the latest!
Before taking off to your winter holiday destination, make sure to read through this update of ours:
1. START YOUR DAY THE TORAH WAY - North London - PROGRAMME FOR WEEKS OF Bank Holidays - פ' שמות- וארא תשס"ח
25th December ’07 to 4th January ’08
Location: The Biala Shtiebel at 110 Castlewood Road, LONDON N15, plenty of parking space available, take Bus 318 from Stamford Hill (outside Carmel Superstore)
Time: Every weekday from 9:20AM until 10:00AM
Language: SHIURIM IN ENGLISH
Also available on Kol HaLoshon: 0161 798 5500, press: 1,9,4 and follow instructions (Shiur Numbers are shown at the beginning of each line)
517, Tuesday 25th December ט"ז טבת Reb Yosef Sugarwhite שליט"א
518, Wednesday 26th December י"ז טבת R’ Ephraim Schiffer שליט"א
519, Thursday 27th December י"ח טבת Rabbi Ch. Michoel Biberfeld שליט"א, Rov of Crowland Road Shul, N15
520, Friday 28th December י"ט טבת Rabbi Shimon Hirschler שליט"א
521, Sunday 30th December כ"א טבת GUEST SPEAKER - Shotzer Rebbe שליט"א from ירושלים
522, Monday 31st December כ"ב טבת TBA
523, Tuesday 1st January כ"ג טבת Rabbi Levi Yitzchok Raskin שליט"א, Dayan of the Lubavitch Kehilla in North London and member of the ECR
524, Wednesday 2nd January כ"ד טבת Rabbi Elimelech - Immanuel Levy שליט"א, Rov of Palmers Green and Southgate Shul Hall, on Brownlow Road N11
525, Thursday 3rd January כ"ה טבת Rabbi Mordechai Fein שליט"א
526, Friday 4th January כ"ו טבת Rabbi Gavriel M. Lamm שליט"א
2. Mekadshey Sheviyi - The Weekly Leyl Shishi Drosho
Rabbi Hershel Eckstein on the Weekly Parsha
Location: The Belzer Shtiebel, 96-98 Clapton Common, LONDON E5
Language: Yiddish
Also available on Kol HaLoshon : 0161 798 5500, press 3,1,4
3. TBT - Tiferes B'nei Torah in London, log on to:
http://tbtlondon.blogspot.com/
4. This invitation is from Rabbi Osher Shapiro, the Mincha Men (and much more...)
כולכם מזומנים!!! בואו וחזקו ידי הלומדי תורה
YOU'RE INVITED PLEASE COME AND BRING ALONG YOU FRIENDS !!!
Learn Maseches Nedarim with Eli Goldman and the crew, followed by Shacharis, Breakfast and Fun...
5. Updated list of Shiurim from kol HaLoshon
A couple of announcements
a) The last 8 years of Rav Asher Arielli's shiurim are available in Yiddish, Yeshivos, Iyun and choosing Rav Asher Arielli.
b) Bnos Melochim are recording a daily shiur in Oz Vehadar Levusha by Rav Falk. They are also recording weekly shiurim and "Inspiring Lectures." They have a direct number (718) 906-6451. Other direct numbers to some of our shiurim aer listed in the attached document.
c) Dr Mordechai Rubin (Riverdale) is recording a Daf HaYomi each night at approximately 9:25 pm.
d) Rav Sender Osterlitz (New Square) is recording in Yiddish a shiur in Meor Anayim at approximately 8:50 am. He also is giving shiurim In Chanukah.
d) Mrs Faigie BenShalom gives a Parshas Hashavua shiur, relating Torah from her father, Rav Mordechai Miller, each Wednesday morning.
e) We recorded some of the Agudah Convention. It can be found at English, Press 8 for Special Topics, Press 5 for Agudas Yisroel shiurim, Press 6 for this year's convention.
f) We have uploaded 50 children's stories from Rav Meir Feldbrand in Gedolei Chassidus, Stories about figures in Tanach, Tanayim and Amorayim, and other assorted stories. More will be uploaded in the coming days.
g) We have uploaded 46 shiurim on Chanukah from Rav Yisroel Dovid Schlesinger. They are located at Yiddish, Tanach, Press 1 for Rav Yisroel Dovid Schlesinger, Press 5 for Moadey Hashana. Press 7 for Chanukah.
h) We have set up a new MP3 download kiosk in Boro Park. It is located in Gal Paz at 4616 13th Ave. The phone number there is 718-438-9414. You can come with your flash drive or MP3 player or ipod or blank CD disks. Gal Paz also sells MP3 players and blank disks. Most of Kol Haloshon shiurim are available at the kiosk. Other kiosks in Montreal, Toronto and New Square are in the process of being set up. A announcement will be forthcoming.
The greatest Hakoras Hatov for Kol Haloshon is telling others about this wonderful free service. There are still many who have not heard about us and can benefit from hearing the shiurim.
6. New Shtiebel in South Tottenham!
The new Shtiebel is now firmly established as the preferred venue for the Avrechim who want a warm atmosphere for Kabalat Shabbath - pop in and you will be impressed, not just from the Chazonim...
7. Making Aliyah Anyone?
Anyone who knows about a container departing from London, UK to Israel?
We need to send the contents of a flat to a recent immigrant. Any leads would be appreciated. Conversely, if you want to send something or some things, please let me know and I'll put you in touch - we can all save on shipping costs and help a needy family in the process.
8. The Anglo and International Jewish Desk Diary for 2008 is now out. Packed with useful information for the globe-trotting Rabbi, businessman, holidaymaker or newcomer...
Available from The Hebrew Book & Gift Centre (Mail Order available, Call: +442088020609 / Fax: +4402082111782 / eMail: info@calculu.co.uk) or from your local bookseller.
9. New! Monthly Tehilim Cycle by eMail
If you find it hard to keep track of your daily Tehilim portion, just reply to this eMail with the word Tehilim in the subject and you will receive a PDF file every month with a daily listing.
10. Browse www.partnersintorah.org - learn something new, every week.
11. NEW! Kosher Web Surfing anyone? If you are interested, please eMail us, we are nearing the final consultation stages and any input would be appreciated.
The attached document details most our LIVE shiurim. An overall index will be available shortly on our web site at www.kolhaloshon.com.
Menasche Scharf
Torah Way - North London
Calculu Business Centre
8 - 10 Timberwharf Road
Fairweather Wharf
LONDON
N16 6DB
T: +44 08456 98 00 44
F: +44 (0)20 82 111 782
M: +44 (0)7974 160 252
If you would like us to remove your eMail address from our eMailing list, please reply with: "REMOVE" in the Subject Field.
Wacky ideas, courtesy of Calculu Business Centre:
Grab the chance to win £££'s - log onto www.ghneville.co.uk and choose from their range of filing and office stationery products
E. & O. E.
Another newsletter with the latest!
Before taking off to your winter holiday destination, make sure to read through this update of ours:
1. START YOUR DAY THE TORAH WAY - North London - PROGRAMME FOR WEEKS OF Bank Holidays - פ' שמות- וארא תשס"ח
25th December ’07 to 4th January ’08
Location: The Biala Shtiebel at 110 Castlewood Road, LONDON N15, plenty of parking space available, take Bus 318 from Stamford Hill (outside Carmel Superstore)
Time: Every weekday from 9:20AM until 10:00AM
Language: SHIURIM IN ENGLISH
Also available on Kol HaLoshon: 0161 798 5500, press: 1,9,4 and follow instructions (Shiur Numbers are shown at the beginning of each line)
517, Tuesday 25th December ט"ז טבת Reb Yosef Sugarwhite שליט"א
518, Wednesday 26th December י"ז טבת R’ Ephraim Schiffer שליט"א
519, Thursday 27th December י"ח טבת Rabbi Ch. Michoel Biberfeld שליט"א, Rov of Crowland Road Shul, N15
520, Friday 28th December י"ט טבת Rabbi Shimon Hirschler שליט"א
521, Sunday 30th December כ"א טבת GUEST SPEAKER - Shotzer Rebbe שליט"א from ירושלים
522, Monday 31st December כ"ב טבת TBA
523, Tuesday 1st January כ"ג טבת Rabbi Levi Yitzchok Raskin שליט"א, Dayan of the Lubavitch Kehilla in North London and member of the ECR
524, Wednesday 2nd January כ"ד טבת Rabbi Elimelech - Immanuel Levy שליט"א, Rov of Palmers Green and Southgate Shul Hall, on Brownlow Road N11
525, Thursday 3rd January כ"ה טבת Rabbi Mordechai Fein שליט"א
526, Friday 4th January כ"ו טבת Rabbi Gavriel M. Lamm שליט"א
2. Mekadshey Sheviyi - The Weekly Leyl Shishi Drosho
Rabbi Hershel Eckstein on the Weekly Parsha
Location: The Belzer Shtiebel, 96-98 Clapton Common, LONDON E5
Language: Yiddish
Also available on Kol HaLoshon : 0161 798 5500, press 3,1,4
3. TBT - Tiferes B'nei Torah in London, log on to:
http://tbtlondon.blogspot.com/
4. This invitation is from Rabbi Osher Shapiro, the Mincha Men (and much more...)
כולכם מזומנים!!! בואו וחזקו ידי הלומדי תורה
YOU'RE INVITED PLEASE COME AND BRING ALONG YOU FRIENDS !!!
Learn Maseches Nedarim with Eli Goldman and the crew, followed by Shacharis, Breakfast and Fun...
5. Updated list of Shiurim from kol HaLoshon
A couple of announcements
a) The last 8 years of Rav Asher Arielli's shiurim are available in Yiddish, Yeshivos, Iyun and choosing Rav Asher Arielli.
b) Bnos Melochim are recording a daily shiur in Oz Vehadar Levusha by Rav Falk. They are also recording weekly shiurim and "Inspiring Lectures." They have a direct number (718) 906-6451. Other direct numbers to some of our shiurim aer listed in the attached document.
c) Dr Mordechai Rubin (Riverdale) is recording a Daf HaYomi each night at approximately 9:25 pm.
d) Rav Sender Osterlitz (New Square) is recording in Yiddish a shiur in Meor Anayim at approximately 8:50 am. He also is giving shiurim In Chanukah.
d) Mrs Faigie BenShalom gives a Parshas Hashavua shiur, relating Torah from her father, Rav Mordechai Miller, each Wednesday morning.
e) We recorded some of the Agudah Convention. It can be found at English, Press 8 for Special Topics, Press 5 for Agudas Yisroel shiurim, Press 6 for this year's convention.
f) We have uploaded 50 children's stories from Rav Meir Feldbrand in Gedolei Chassidus, Stories about figures in Tanach, Tanayim and Amorayim, and other assorted stories. More will be uploaded in the coming days.
g) We have uploaded 46 shiurim on Chanukah from Rav Yisroel Dovid Schlesinger. They are located at Yiddish, Tanach, Press 1 for Rav Yisroel Dovid Schlesinger, Press 5 for Moadey Hashana. Press 7 for Chanukah.
h) We have set up a new MP3 download kiosk in Boro Park. It is located in Gal Paz at 4616 13th Ave. The phone number there is 718-438-9414. You can come with your flash drive or MP3 player or ipod or blank CD disks. Gal Paz also sells MP3 players and blank disks. Most of Kol Haloshon shiurim are available at the kiosk. Other kiosks in Montreal, Toronto and New Square are in the process of being set up. A announcement will be forthcoming.
The greatest Hakoras Hatov for Kol Haloshon is telling others about this wonderful free service. There are still many who have not heard about us and can benefit from hearing the shiurim.
6. New Shtiebel in South Tottenham!
The new Shtiebel is now firmly established as the preferred venue for the Avrechim who want a warm atmosphere for Kabalat Shabbath - pop in and you will be impressed, not just from the Chazonim...
7. Making Aliyah Anyone?
Anyone who knows about a container departing from London, UK to Israel?
We need to send the contents of a flat to a recent immigrant. Any leads would be appreciated. Conversely, if you want to send something or some things, please let me know and I'll put you in touch - we can all save on shipping costs and help a needy family in the process.
8. The Anglo and International Jewish Desk Diary for 2008 is now out. Packed with useful information for the globe-trotting Rabbi, businessman, holidaymaker or newcomer...
Available from The Hebrew Book & Gift Centre (Mail Order available, Call: +442088020609 / Fax: +4402082111782 / eMail: info@calculu.co.uk) or from your local bookseller.
9. New! Monthly Tehilim Cycle by eMail
If you find it hard to keep track of your daily Tehilim portion, just reply to this eMail with the word Tehilim in the subject and you will receive a PDF file every month with a daily listing.
10. Browse www.partnersintorah.org - learn something new, every week.
11. NEW! Kosher Web Surfing anyone? If you are interested, please eMail us, we are nearing the final consultation stages and any input would be appreciated.
The attached document details most our LIVE shiurim. An overall index will be available shortly on our web site at www.kolhaloshon.com.
Menasche Scharf
Torah Way - North London
Calculu Business Centre
8 - 10 Timberwharf Road
Fairweather Wharf
LONDON
N16 6DB
T: +44 08456 98 00 44
F: +44 (0)20 82 111 782
M: +44 (0)7974 160 252
If you would like us to remove your eMail address from our eMailing list, please reply with: "REMOVE" in the Subject Field.
Wacky ideas, courtesy of Calculu Business Centre:
Grab the chance to win £££'s - log onto www.ghneville.co.uk and choose from their range of filing and office stationery products
E. & O. E.
Sunday, August 5
Logging in L@@king out!
Dear Editor,
Re: Head in the Sand.
Logging in L@@king out! Thank you for bringing this very important issue to the fore, which has been waiting to be highlighted for a long time. The points that were discussed are oh so valid, only they cannot be dealt with properly within the framework of such a prestigious publication as Mishpacha - just because of this publications high moral standards!
The time has come to take the bull by his horns and deal with this dangerous, all consuming power in an organised and effective manner.
To achieve this, we he would have to take one step back and look at the current hotch-potch of solutions, some of which have been mentioned in your article and its side bars.
What has been done up until today is no more than affixing temporary patches to an ever growing wound, which outgrows and outwits these well-meaning safeguards at a frightening pace. Just ask all the solution providers of the various filtering services how many of their customers were unwittingly lured in to innocent-looking sites.
Since the birth of the web on 12 November, 1990 (as opposed to the birth of the internet, which happened over twenty years earlier), when its potential started becoming ever more prevalent, I was arguing with both Rabbonim and lay people in my local community about the need to create a separate, well-guarded web environment. After all, we have our own physical communities, our own educational institutions, our own systems to safeguard the purity of our food and clothing - we even have our pure magazines! Why then should we not have our own marketplace, information depository and other digital spheres that have been built from the ground up on unadulterated, Kosher foundations?!
As with any other problem plaguing the Orthodox Jewish community, the three main ingredients required to fix something has always been: The Rabbonim - Da'as Torah, The Community - "the lay people" and the Resources - money etc..
Let me explain: The story of Churban Bayis Sheni is well documented. The city of Jerusalem had enough food in its stores to help the population withstand the siege for many months. It was the act of non-religious zealots that caused them to be burnt, which in turn led Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai to intervene on behalf of Yavneh. This step ensured the survival of Torah and its torch-bearers for generations to come, until our days. Here we have a prime example where Resources - or rather the lack of them - played a major part in altering the course of history. Likewise Da'as Torah and the lay person of that time had a direct involvement in the course of events.
Bil'am - in his forced blessings that he bestowed on Kelal Yisroel - pronounced "Hen 'Om Levodod Yishkon" - "behold, here is a people that dwells apart". Look closely and you will see that unbeknownst to this sorcerer, (who couldn't possibly have foreseen the global use of the English language - according to VeriSign : "two-thirds of content on the Internet is in English" source: Richmond Journal of Law & Technology Volume XII, Issue1) the first letters of these four words form the word HOLY.
We are known as a people with values, but even more so, the Orthodox Jewish community is a dynamic and vibrant community - the only segment of the Jewish people to be around by the turn of the next century. Why is it then that our youth is sometimes seen in unfavourable settings, locales or with the wrong companions? The answer is not a clear cut one; no one can put his hand on his heart and say what ills cause this sorry state. However in trying to uncover the culprit, one would not be amiss for blaming at least a nice portion of the moral decay in our midst on the internet and the many tentacles it spawned in the form of cellular phones, games consoles, entertainment devices and innocent ATMs.
What we experience in this day and age is the sorry state of Sereyfas Neshomo veGuf Kayom: you see the same Avreych, your well loved son or the refined Seminary girl - only the sparkle in their eyes is gone, the lustre around their face is dimmed, their devotions are a rote of lifeless soul-less motions.
We face a fiend as powerful or even more powerful than our forefathers faced in the time of the Hamoneans. They fought a seemingly lost battle - we have to learn from them to wage a war with this all-encompassing, invasive, inventive and venomous opponent.
If we all join the battle with tenacity, resourcefulness and unity - the One who tests us in this generation will help us overcome and vanquish the dragon of impurity - just as He has done battle for our forefathers - Bayomim hoheymm bazeman hazeh.
Menasche Scharf
London, UK
--
Time iZmani - use it properly
Re: Head in the Sand.
Logging in L@@king out! Thank you for bringing this very important issue to the fore, which has been waiting to be highlighted for a long time. The points that were discussed are oh so valid, only they cannot be dealt with properly within the framework of such a prestigious publication as Mishpacha - just because of this publications high moral standards!
The time has come to take the bull by his horns and deal with this dangerous, all consuming power in an organised and effective manner.
To achieve this, we he would have to take one step back and look at the current hotch-potch of solutions, some of which have been mentioned in your article and its side bars.
What has been done up until today is no more than affixing temporary patches to an ever growing wound, which outgrows and outwits these well-meaning safeguards at a frightening pace. Just ask all the solution providers of the various filtering services how many of their customers were unwittingly lured in to innocent-looking sites.
Since the birth of the web on 12 November, 1990 (as opposed to the birth of the internet, which happened over twenty years earlier), when its potential started becoming ever more prevalent, I was arguing with both Rabbonim and lay people in my local community about the need to create a separate, well-guarded web environment. After all, we have our own physical communities, our own educational institutions, our own systems to safeguard the purity of our food and clothing - we even have our pure magazines! Why then should we not have our own marketplace, information depository and other digital spheres that have been built from the ground up on unadulterated, Kosher foundations?!
As with any other problem plaguing the Orthodox Jewish community, the three main ingredients required to fix something has always been: The Rabbonim - Da'as Torah, The Community - "the lay people" and the Resources - money etc..
Let me explain: The story of Churban Bayis Sheni is well documented. The city of Jerusalem had enough food in its stores to help the population withstand the siege for many months. It was the act of non-religious zealots that caused them to be burnt, which in turn led Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai to intervene on behalf of Yavneh. This step ensured the survival of Torah and its torch-bearers for generations to come, until our days. Here we have a prime example where Resources - or rather the lack of them - played a major part in altering the course of history. Likewise Da'as Torah and the lay person of that time had a direct involvement in the course of events.
Bil'am - in his forced blessings that he bestowed on Kelal Yisroel - pronounced "Hen 'Om Levodod Yishkon" - "behold, here is a people that dwells apart". Look closely and you will see that unbeknownst to this sorcerer, (who couldn't possibly have foreseen the global use of the English language - according to VeriSign : "two-thirds of content on the Internet is in English" source: Richmond Journal of Law & Technology Volume XII, Issue1) the first letters of these four words form the word HOLY.
We are known as a people with values, but even more so, the Orthodox Jewish community is a dynamic and vibrant community - the only segment of the Jewish people to be around by the turn of the next century. Why is it then that our youth is sometimes seen in unfavourable settings, locales or with the wrong companions? The answer is not a clear cut one; no one can put his hand on his heart and say what ills cause this sorry state. However in trying to uncover the culprit, one would not be amiss for blaming at least a nice portion of the moral decay in our midst on the internet and the many tentacles it spawned in the form of cellular phones, games consoles, entertainment devices and innocent ATMs.
What we experience in this day and age is the sorry state of Sereyfas Neshomo veGuf Kayom: you see the same Avreych, your well loved son or the refined Seminary girl - only the sparkle in their eyes is gone, the lustre around their face is dimmed, their devotions are a rote of lifeless soul-less motions.
We face a fiend as powerful or even more powerful than our forefathers faced in the time of the Hamoneans. They fought a seemingly lost battle - we have to learn from them to wage a war with this all-encompassing, invasive, inventive and venomous opponent.
If we all join the battle with tenacity, resourcefulness and unity - the One who tests us in this generation will help us overcome and vanquish the dragon of impurity - just as He has done battle for our forefathers - Bayomim hoheymm bazeman hazeh.
Menasche Scharf
London, UK
--
Time iZmani - use it properly
Wednesday, November 8
Start Your Day the Torah Way - North London celebrates its first anniversary
South Tottenham, 03 September 2006
Start Your Day the Torah Way - North London celebrates its first anniversary.
By Jonathan Stern,
This Sunday, like any other Sunday over the past year, there was a Shiur given at the Biala Beis HaMedrash on Castlewood Road. Rabbi Dayan Josef Dov Babad, the Rav of the Belzer Kehilla in London held the regular Torah Way Shiur from 9:20am to 10:00am, and he praised this wonderful initiative during his eloquent speech, covering Halachic subjects and concluded with a reminder of the upcoming Holy Days. He pointed out that perhaps the term Torah Way could be misleading; some might interpret this as if there could be another way H"F (Heaven forbid). He went on to illustrate this by retelling an anecdote whereby a number of Litvishe Gedolim convened for a meeting and one Rabbi surmised that "Torah is like oxygen - one couldn't survive without it". Whereby another Rabbi stood up and stated empathic that "No! Torah is Everything". Dayan Babad went on to praise the work of the "Askonim", some of which are his Shul-members, and wished them and the listeners success in their future learning.
Mr Aron Factor, a devout participant of the English language Shiurim chaired the proceedings by opening the event with a report about the growth of the local branch. He emphasised the need to remember all those who made the programme a reality, especially Mr Moshe Hager who fills in for his partner at work and also Mr Shlomo Zalman Friedlander, a long-standing fan of Start Your Day in Manchester and now in London. As an active member he was expressing his feelings of satisfaction, seeing how this small project, which started out with a small number of regular members on Sundays now boasts nearly two "Minyonim" on a daily basis.
Rabbi Gee, in his inimitable fashion succeeded to elicit broad smiles even from the head table... by covering the growth of the learning group from a speaker's vintage point. He went on to explain the need and indeed the "chessed" of having Shiurim in English, even in North London, citing Rabbis Mordechai Gifter and Rabbi Avigdor Miller as prime examples of how English can be used to disseminate Torah.
The Gerrer Rosh HaYeshiva Rabbi Yaakov Meir Rosenbaum Shlita enthralled the audience with his brilliant speech on the importance, providence and future benefit of learning Torah - especially straight after the morning prayers. Whilst there are people who put Torah learning on the back burner - so to speak - until they have finished with their business and family matters, the Torah Way programme provides us with the proper perspective of how a real Jew should lead his day and live his life: first and foremost is the living Torah, which will also meet him up until the heavenly court when ones days are up and only then the mundane matters of this passing world.
The pleasant mood in the Shul as prevalent as people started singing Torah-nigunnim spontaneously and wished each other a repeat performance for the next year.
Start Your Day the Torah Way is a Adult Learning Programme that started in Manchester about three years ago by lay people who wanted to literally Start their Day the Torah Way. It now boasts four channels on Kol HaLoshon, accessible from all major Jewish communities worldwide where there is a local dial-up number (in the UK: 020 8731 0345, channel 7). The web sites are on the following urls: www.torahway.org.uk and www. torahway.co.uk and soon to be expanded! Learning sessions are available in Tape and CD format, can also be downloaded as MP3 or PodCasts. Plans are afoot to open branches in Gateshead and Edgware in the near future.
Start Your Day the Torah Way - North London celebrates its first anniversary.
By Jonathan Stern,
This Sunday, like any other Sunday over the past year, there was a Shiur given at the Biala Beis HaMedrash on Castlewood Road. Rabbi Dayan Josef Dov Babad, the Rav of the Belzer Kehilla in London held the regular Torah Way Shiur from 9:20am to 10:00am, and he praised this wonderful initiative during his eloquent speech, covering Halachic subjects and concluded with a reminder of the upcoming Holy Days. He pointed out that perhaps the term Torah Way could be misleading; some might interpret this as if there could be another way H"F (Heaven forbid). He went on to illustrate this by retelling an anecdote whereby a number of Litvishe Gedolim convened for a meeting and one Rabbi surmised that "Torah is like oxygen - one couldn't survive without it". Whereby another Rabbi stood up and stated empathic that "No! Torah is Everything". Dayan Babad went on to praise the work of the "Askonim", some of which are his Shul-members, and wished them and the listeners success in their future learning.
Mr Aron Factor, a devout participant of the English language Shiurim chaired the proceedings by opening the event with a report about the growth of the local branch. He emphasised the need to remember all those who made the programme a reality, especially Mr Moshe Hager who fills in for his partner at work and also Mr Shlomo Zalman Friedlander, a long-standing fan of Start Your Day in Manchester and now in London. As an active member he was expressing his feelings of satisfaction, seeing how this small project, which started out with a small number of regular members on Sundays now boasts nearly two "Minyonim" on a daily basis.
Rabbi Gee, in his inimitable fashion succeeded to elicit broad smiles even from the head table... by covering the growth of the learning group from a speaker's vintage point. He went on to explain the need and indeed the "chessed" of having Shiurim in English, even in North London, citing Rabbis Mordechai Gifter and Rabbi Avigdor Miller as prime examples of how English can be used to disseminate Torah.
The Gerrer Rosh HaYeshiva Rabbi Yaakov Meir Rosenbaum Shlita enthralled the audience with his brilliant speech on the importance, providence and future benefit of learning Torah - especially straight after the morning prayers. Whilst there are people who put Torah learning on the back burner - so to speak - until they have finished with their business and family matters, the Torah Way programme provides us with the proper perspective of how a real Jew should lead his day and live his life: first and foremost is the living Torah, which will also meet him up until the heavenly court when ones days are up and only then the mundane matters of this passing world.
The pleasant mood in the Shul as prevalent as people started singing Torah-nigunnim spontaneously and wished each other a repeat performance for the next year.
Start Your Day the Torah Way is a Adult Learning Programme that started in Manchester about three years ago by lay people who wanted to literally Start their Day the Torah Way. It now boasts four channels on Kol HaLoshon, accessible from all major Jewish communities worldwide where there is a local dial-up number (in the UK: 020 8731 0345, channel 7). The web sites are on the following urls: www.torahway.org.uk and www. torahway.co.uk and soon to be expanded! Learning sessions are available in Tape and CD format, can also be downloaded as MP3 or PodCasts. Plans are afoot to open branches in Gateshead and Edgware in the near future.
Friday, June 23
Torah Way North London - Purim Update
by Jonathan Stern
Listeners to the Torah Way North London programme on Kol Haloshon, as well as the regular visitors to the Biala Shtiebel in Castlewood Road in South Tottenham were treated to an extraordinary discourse on Emunoh, Bitochon and Divine Intervention (lit. Hashgocho Protis).
The speaker was octogenarian Rabbi Yitzchok Wiesenfeld, acting Rabbi and spiritual leader to the New Shul's Minyan at the Victoria Community Centre in Egerton Road.
Spiced with sayings of our sages from previous generations and punctuated with his own insights, he skilfully wove a chain through the Parshyios relating our Egyptian stay and subsequent sojourn in the wilderness.
Regular fans will notice the growing number of recorded Shiurim on the Kol HaLoshon system, which has now reached over thirty. These include sessions on Sundays and Thursdays, mostly delivered by local Rabbonim on a one-off basis.
Rabbi Yaakov Mordechai Gee will deliver the coming Sunday's drosho (05/03/2006), followed by Rabbi Yechiel Fogel on the Sunday after (12/03/2006).
A new system is G-D willing now being introduced whereby there will be a regular speaker on Thursdays, every three to four weeks. Each contributor will focus on a particular area in the vast expanses of Torah: the weekly Parsha, History, Hashkofo etc. - all with the aim to enrich the lives of our ba'aley battim and enhance their day in a Torah-dige fashion.
We now have the privilege of introducing some of the regular Maggidey Shiur for alternating Thursdays: Rabbi Mordechai Fine, Rabbi Gavriel Menashe Lamm, Rabbi Yechiel Fogel and Rabbi Yerachmiel Tzvi Halpert.
The beauty of Torah Way is that it becomes contagious; people tell their friends, who relate their new-found experience to family, who in turn make sure to bring along yet another newcomer-friend. Indeed - regulars are being reminded to be generous, to share the joy and spread the word about the wonderful, uplifting words of wisdom they acquire in these short sessions with long ranging effect.
A special guest speaker is planned for Purim day - start it the Torah Way. Watch out for more details on the Shul noticeboards and in the news.
As has been previously reported, Yiddish-speaking listeners have not been left out - tune in on Kol HaLoshon and dial extension 3111 to hear the legendary Rabbi Hershel Eckstein every Thursday evening between 20:20 to 23:05 on the Mekadhsey Shevi'i channel.
Torah Way , the daily morning Shiur started two years ago in North Manchester and now operates in North and North West London.
We are now in the process of publishing a Torah Way Diary, an A4 flyer listing forthcoming Shiurim until Erev Rosh HaShana. For further details, call Menasche Scharf on 07974 160 252.
Communicated:
1 Adar 5766 (27/03/2006)
Listeners to the Torah Way North London programme on Kol Haloshon, as well as the regular visitors to the Biala Shtiebel in Castlewood Road in South Tottenham were treated to an extraordinary discourse on Emunoh, Bitochon and Divine Intervention (lit. Hashgocho Protis).
The speaker was octogenarian Rabbi Yitzchok Wiesenfeld, acting Rabbi and spiritual leader to the New Shul's Minyan at the Victoria Community Centre in Egerton Road.
Spiced with sayings of our sages from previous generations and punctuated with his own insights, he skilfully wove a chain through the Parshyios relating our Egyptian stay and subsequent sojourn in the wilderness.
Regular fans will notice the growing number of recorded Shiurim on the Kol HaLoshon system, which has now reached over thirty. These include sessions on Sundays and Thursdays, mostly delivered by local Rabbonim on a one-off basis.
Rabbi Yaakov Mordechai Gee will deliver the coming Sunday's drosho (05/03/2006), followed by Rabbi Yechiel Fogel on the Sunday after (12/03/2006).
A new system is G-D willing now being introduced whereby there will be a regular speaker on Thursdays, every three to four weeks. Each contributor will focus on a particular area in the vast expanses of Torah: the weekly Parsha, History, Hashkofo etc. - all with the aim to enrich the lives of our ba'aley battim and enhance their day in a Torah-dige fashion.
We now have the privilege of introducing some of the regular Maggidey Shiur for alternating Thursdays: Rabbi Mordechai Fine, Rabbi Gavriel Menashe Lamm, Rabbi Yechiel Fogel and Rabbi Yerachmiel Tzvi Halpert.
The beauty of Torah Way is that it becomes contagious; people tell their friends, who relate their new-found experience to family, who in turn make sure to bring along yet another newcomer-friend. Indeed - regulars are being reminded to be generous, to share the joy and spread the word about the wonderful, uplifting words of wisdom they acquire in these short sessions with long ranging effect.
A special guest speaker is planned for Purim day - start it the Torah Way. Watch out for more details on the Shul noticeboards and in the news.
As has been previously reported, Yiddish-speaking listeners have not been left out - tune in on Kol HaLoshon and dial extension 3111 to hear the legendary Rabbi Hershel Eckstein every Thursday evening between 20:20 to 23:05 on the Mekadhsey Shevi'i channel.
Torah Way , the daily morning Shiur started two years ago in North Manchester and now operates in North and North West London.
We are now in the process of publishing a Torah Way Diary, an A4 flyer listing forthcoming Shiurim until Erev Rosh HaShana. For further details, call Menasche Scharf on 07974 160 252.
Communicated:
1 Adar 5766 (27/03/2006)
Calculu Business and Training Centre: English Courses
London, 24/05/2005
Calculu Business and Training Centre Launches Summer Term English Courses
Overwhelming response forces new classes to be opened immediately,
places are being snapped up
By Menasche Scharf
The first class in the ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages)
has taken off with a bang! Young Kollel Men sat in a class together
with budding entrepeneurs - eager to get their English brushed up. Mr
Lawrence, rector of Courses at the London Essex College delivered the
debut lesson to students from Israel, Belgium and London, which turned
out to be a great success. Mr Menasche Scharf - Founding Director of
Calculu Business and Training Centre, commented on the positive
approach taken by all involved: staff at the Brenner Community Centre
where extremely forthcoming and we look forward to increasing the
number of classes and to broaden the range and scope of courses to
accommodate the growing public interest.
Subjects that are requested by would-be students range from basic
Typing and Bookkeeping to Advanced Graphic Design and CAD (=Computer
Aided Design) for Architecture and Manufacturing.
So far, over one hundred applications have been accepted, which is
clear indication of the crying need for an organisation such as
Calculu Business and Training Centre.
Pricing has been kept at an extremely affordable level, to enable
applicants on low-income to attend. Private lessons for in-house
delivery for commercial outfits are now planned, to minimise on loss
of working time. This is in direct response from many interested
parties.
Notes to Editors:
About Calculu Business and Training Centre
Calculu Business and Training Centre is the first commercial training
provider for the 'Heimishe' (Ultra-Orthodox / Charedi) Community in
North London. Having used its links within banking and industry, it
succeeded in igniting a mini-revolution in the local sphere of
business and commerce; would be business people have so far struggled
with setting up, running or accessing finance for business. The road
map set out by Calculu Business and Training Centre is designed to
change all that.
About the name "Calculu":
Calculu is derived from a play of words, combining the Latin word
Calculus with the trasliteration of the Hebrew word Calcoloh, meaning
'sustenance'. Calculu Business and Training Center has set as its
goal the provision training to enable disadvantaged people to gain
employment.
Contact details: For additional information call 08456980044.
Calculu Business and Training Centre Launches Summer Term English Courses
Overwhelming response forces new classes to be opened immediately,
places are being snapped up
By Menasche Scharf
The first class in the ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages)
has taken off with a bang! Young Kollel Men sat in a class together
with budding entrepeneurs - eager to get their English brushed up. Mr
Lawrence, rector of Courses at the London Essex College delivered the
debut lesson to students from Israel, Belgium and London, which turned
out to be a great success. Mr Menasche Scharf - Founding Director of
Calculu Business and Training Centre, commented on the positive
approach taken by all involved: staff at the Brenner Community Centre
where extremely forthcoming and we look forward to increasing the
number of classes and to broaden the range and scope of courses to
accommodate the growing public interest.
Subjects that are requested by would-be students range from basic
Typing and Bookkeeping to Advanced Graphic Design and CAD (=Computer
Aided Design) for Architecture and Manufacturing.
So far, over one hundred applications have been accepted, which is
clear indication of the crying need for an organisation such as
Calculu Business and Training Centre.
Pricing has been kept at an extremely affordable level, to enable
applicants on low-income to attend. Private lessons for in-house
delivery for commercial outfits are now planned, to minimise on loss
of working time. This is in direct response from many interested
parties.
Notes to Editors:
About Calculu Business and Training Centre
Calculu Business and Training Centre is the first commercial training
provider for the 'Heimishe' (Ultra-Orthodox / Charedi) Community in
North London. Having used its links within banking and industry, it
succeeded in igniting a mini-revolution in the local sphere of
business and commerce; would be business people have so far struggled
with setting up, running or accessing finance for business. The road
map set out by Calculu Business and Training Centre is designed to
change all that.
About the name "Calculu":
Calculu is derived from a play of words, combining the Latin word
Calculus with the trasliteration of the Hebrew word Calcoloh, meaning
'sustenance'. Calculu Business and Training Center has set as its
goal the provision training to enable disadvantaged people to gain
employment.
Contact details: For additional information call 08456980044.
A first in North London: Torah Way programme launched!
By Jonathan SternThis Sunday morning something new happened in North London: twenty five participants met to hear a Drosho in English on How to Prepare for Rosh Hashana. This novel idea, which is actually based on the Start Your Day the Torah Way programme in North Manchester is a morning Shiur given by Rabbonim and others to enhance the busy worker's life before setting out to his business day.
Judging by the audience, one could discern the crying need for such a Shiur, as people from all ages and all walks of life were in attendance. Rabbi Zvi Eckstein (see picture) a Maggid Shiur in the Belz Beis HaMedrash on Clapton Common, expounded on he idea of being besimcho and utilising the rare opportunity given to us in Chodesh Ellul to prepare for the coming new year. Spiced with personal anecdotes and tales of Tzadikim, the ideas came across with a unique shine and sparkle as the receptive audience sat spellbound for barely 45 minutes.
It is hoped that next week's Shiur, on how to set a goal in Ellul, to be given by Rabbi Meir Rothfeld at the Biala Beis HaMedrash - 110 Castlewood Road, were plenty parking space is available - will likewise succeed in enthralling the assembled and thereby establishing a pattern of Torah Learning the Torah Way in North London.
This week's Shiur is available on Kol HaLoshon and next week's Shiur will also be available Live on 1503AM from 9:20am to 10:00am.
Posters are printed in full colour, with a theme depicting the current Parshah or Yom Tov and a novel idea is the constant face-changes showing a new Rabbi every week.
The programme was made possible by the generous cooperation of Torah Way founder and dynamo Mr Menachem Dovid Salzman of Manchester, who went out of his way to ensure the success of this launch.
This week's sponsor was Calculu Business & Training Centre
In Touch with Down Sindrome
When I first met up with Mrs H. to discuss the possibility of interviewing her regarding her grandchild with Downs syndrome her immediate reaction was, "oh what fun!" I was immediately struck by her very positive frame of mind which has obviously made an impact on the entire family.
Mrs H. has many grandchildren kein ayen hora and she shared with me her appreciation for every healthy grandchild that was born to her. "Prior to the birth of this granddaughter, whenever I had an grandchild", she confided, I used to say Baruch Hashem it's not Downs.
K.H.: Has your attitude to Downs Syndrome changed since your granddaughter was born?
Mrs H.: "Definitely, first of all they're all sisters to my granddaughter; they all look alike. Secondly I now view them as little 'mentchen' who have a lot to contribute. I talk to them as such, with respect. I do not baby them or regard them as second-class citizens. I have a language with them.
K.H.: How did you find out her condition?
Mrs H.: My son in law could not tell me over the phone. He phoned me from the hospital to tell me that my daughter had just given birth to a girl. Then my daughter phoned and said "I think it's downs."
"What did you say? I Dropped everything and ran to the hospital."
K.H.: You probably had to deal with your own emotions as well?
Mrs H.: All my thoughts went out to my daughter. I cared only for her and did not think at all about myself.
K.H.: What did you do to help your daughter?
Mrs H.: I stayed with her for twelve hours straight and did not leave her. She was in a terrible state. I was very positive about it and kept saying she's ours we'll love her. We'll keep her, I kissed the baby over and over again showing my daughter that I accepted the baby the way she was.
She looked like the other children in the family so I said she hasn't come to the wrong address because she even resembles the others. The siblings all love their sister.
I said, "at least we have where to send her, we have Side by Side." That helped a lot.
K.H.: What did people do to help your daughter?
Mrs H.: Nothing at all. There was nothing people could do. She couldn't go to Beis Brocho because she did not want to meet other people, she only wanted to be with or talk to people in the same situation.
Even her sisters didn't know what to say and do. Later on they helped physically by looking after the other children.
When the baby's condition was confirmed at the hospital the midwife said it's only a social problem. That remark helped a lot because it's so true. It's the way people react that makes it hard - our attitude is all wrong.
My son in law's reaction helped a lot. Even though he does not usually love new born babies he made every effort to love this one. He went out of his way to demonstrate his love and acceptance for this helpless new born and therefore bonded extremely well even more than with the others. That helped my daughter a lot and the entire family. He's not ashamed of his daughter and takes her out with him whenever possible.
On that first day on the way going home from hospital min hashamayim I met a mother of a child with downs syndrome. That woman who I know very well was a life saver. She gave my daughter so much emotional support because she was in the very same situation and she truly understood.
K.H.: What advice would would you give to other grandmothers of a child with Downs syndrome?
Mrs H.: Love the child, show him how much you love and accept him.
Love the baby in front of the mother. Accept him as he is, bond with him and keep in touch. Try to find out every new development.
The mother should be able to depend on you for love and encouragement.
Take nothing for granted, everything is a simcha, every word, every chochma. Her first step for instance took so long but the reward was so great.
K.H.: You seem to have an extremely positive attitude; what do you think contributed towards that?
Mrs H.: I was not a spoilt child. I grew up during the war and to me normal family life is a luxury I never had as a small girl.
K.H.: In which way have your lives changed because of your granddaughter?
Mrs H.: My grandchildren are more sensitive and understanding to others and especially to those with special needs. They appreciate them and realise that they have so much to offer.
K.H.: What can people do to help a person in this situation?
Mrs H.: Just be normal, wish mazal tov come to the simcha. Say hello to the mother. Don't ignore her. Don't cross over to the other side of the street as was sometimes the case with my daughter.
K.H.: I remember not being sure whether to give you mazal tov. You taught us how to behave.
Mrs H.: Yes, my message was "don't I get a mazal tov?" I had a grandchild, don't nebech us.
Don't say nebech when hearing this news. Nobody wants to be pitied.
K.H.: Do you have an amusing experience to share with us?
Mrs H.: The Children were sitting round their sister with mummy who was becoming increasingly frustrated because she had been putting in so much efforts into this child. There seemed to be absolutely no reaction. My daughter said to the child "look how much we're doing for you, look how much time I'm spending with you and what do you do for us - nothing!" My granddaughter was about two and a half years old at the time. She looked her mummy straight in the eye and said her first word "MUMMY."
Oh, how all the children cheered and obviously my daughter rang straightaway to share the good news with me.
K.H.: How did you help your grandchildren come to terms with the new born baby's condition?
Mrs H.: I explained the baby's condition to the bigger ones. They all took it well and immediately said they would love her. I did not say it was a tragedy because by Hashem there are no mistakes.
I was very positive about the baby and spoke about loving her and helping mummy.
K.H.: That must have had a very positive effect on the grandchildren. Perhaps it was because of your influence that they took it so well.
Any particular message you would like to give our readers?
Mrs H.: Hashem makes no mistakes, we just need a lot of physical and emotional efforts to cope.
We did not choose this baby. Hashem chose my daughter and son in law to take care of her and believe me, lucky baby she couldn't have found a better address.
Mrs H. has many grandchildren kein ayen hora and she shared with me her appreciation for every healthy grandchild that was born to her. "Prior to the birth of this granddaughter, whenever I had an grandchild", she confided, I used to say Baruch Hashem it's not Downs.
K.H.: Has your attitude to Downs Syndrome changed since your granddaughter was born?
Mrs H.: "Definitely, first of all they're all sisters to my granddaughter; they all look alike. Secondly I now view them as little 'mentchen' who have a lot to contribute. I talk to them as such, with respect. I do not baby them or regard them as second-class citizens. I have a language with them.
K.H.: How did you find out her condition?
Mrs H.: My son in law could not tell me over the phone. He phoned me from the hospital to tell me that my daughter had just given birth to a girl. Then my daughter phoned and said "I think it's downs."
"What did you say? I Dropped everything and ran to the hospital."
K.H.: You probably had to deal with your own emotions as well?
Mrs H.: All my thoughts went out to my daughter. I cared only for her and did not think at all about myself.
K.H.: What did you do to help your daughter?
Mrs H.: I stayed with her for twelve hours straight and did not leave her. She was in a terrible state. I was very positive about it and kept saying she's ours we'll love her. We'll keep her, I kissed the baby over and over again showing my daughter that I accepted the baby the way she was.
She looked like the other children in the family so I said she hasn't come to the wrong address because she even resembles the others. The siblings all love their sister.
I said, "at least we have where to send her, we have Side by Side." That helped a lot.
K.H.: What did people do to help your daughter?
Mrs H.: Nothing at all. There was nothing people could do. She couldn't go to Beis Brocho because she did not want to meet other people, she only wanted to be with or talk to people in the same situation.
Even her sisters didn't know what to say and do. Later on they helped physically by looking after the other children.
When the baby's condition was confirmed at the hospital the midwife said it's only a social problem. That remark helped a lot because it's so true. It's the way people react that makes it hard - our attitude is all wrong.
My son in law's reaction helped a lot. Even though he does not usually love new born babies he made every effort to love this one. He went out of his way to demonstrate his love and acceptance for this helpless new born and therefore bonded extremely well even more than with the others. That helped my daughter a lot and the entire family. He's not ashamed of his daughter and takes her out with him whenever possible.
On that first day on the way going home from hospital min hashamayim I met a mother of a child with downs syndrome. That woman who I know very well was a life saver. She gave my daughter so much emotional support because she was in the very same situation and she truly understood.
K.H.: What advice would would you give to other grandmothers of a child with Downs syndrome?
Mrs H.: Love the child, show him how much you love and accept him.
Love the baby in front of the mother. Accept him as he is, bond with him and keep in touch. Try to find out every new development.
The mother should be able to depend on you for love and encouragement.
Take nothing for granted, everything is a simcha, every word, every chochma. Her first step for instance took so long but the reward was so great.
K.H.: You seem to have an extremely positive attitude; what do you think contributed towards that?
Mrs H.: I was not a spoilt child. I grew up during the war and to me normal family life is a luxury I never had as a small girl.
K.H.: In which way have your lives changed because of your granddaughter?
Mrs H.: My grandchildren are more sensitive and understanding to others and especially to those with special needs. They appreciate them and realise that they have so much to offer.
K.H.: What can people do to help a person in this situation?
Mrs H.: Just be normal, wish mazal tov come to the simcha. Say hello to the mother. Don't ignore her. Don't cross over to the other side of the street as was sometimes the case with my daughter.
K.H.: I remember not being sure whether to give you mazal tov. You taught us how to behave.
Mrs H.: Yes, my message was "don't I get a mazal tov?" I had a grandchild, don't nebech us.
Don't say nebech when hearing this news. Nobody wants to be pitied.
K.H.: Do you have an amusing experience to share with us?
Mrs H.: The Children were sitting round their sister with mummy who was becoming increasingly frustrated because she had been putting in so much efforts into this child. There seemed to be absolutely no reaction. My daughter said to the child "look how much we're doing for you, look how much time I'm spending with you and what do you do for us - nothing!" My granddaughter was about two and a half years old at the time. She looked her mummy straight in the eye and said her first word "MUMMY."
Oh, how all the children cheered and obviously my daughter rang straightaway to share the good news with me.
K.H.: How did you help your grandchildren come to terms with the new born baby's condition?
Mrs H.: I explained the baby's condition to the bigger ones. They all took it well and immediately said they would love her. I did not say it was a tragedy because by Hashem there are no mistakes.
I was very positive about the baby and spoke about loving her and helping mummy.
K.H.: That must have had a very positive effect on the grandchildren. Perhaps it was because of your influence that they took it so well.
Any particular message you would like to give our readers?
Mrs H.: Hashem makes no mistakes, we just need a lot of physical and emotional efforts to cope.
We did not choose this baby. Hashem chose my daughter and son in law to take care of her and believe me, lucky baby she couldn't have found a better address.
The Korban Nesanel
This year (5766/2006), as in the past couple of years, the pilgrimage to the resting place of Rabbi Nathanael Weil (picture attached: Rabiner_netanel_weill.gif) in Karlsruhe, Germany took place on the occasion of his Yahrzeit, 15th Iyar. As this year's anniversary fell on Shabbos, it was postponed to Sunday 14th May.
For the first time in many years, there was a minyan at the grave, composed of visitors from Antwerp Belgium, London, England and also some local people.
The Korban Nesanel, as this highly esteemed Rabbinic authority is called lived in Karlsruhe and was buried there. However his soul departed in neighbouring Rastatt, reportedly on the eve of the holy Sabbath. It has been recounted that whilst the Jewish community of Rastatt were adamant that the Holy Rabbi should be laid to rest in their Cemetery, the Jewish community in Karlsruhe insisted that his wish was to be buried in his hometown. By the time the Karlsruhe community succeeded in convincing their Rastatt counterparts to honour the deceased Rabbis wishes, it was already Friday afternoon, nearing candle-lighting time. As much as the hearse hurriedly proceeded along the Rastatt-Karlsruhe road, they couldn't fathom how they would manage to respectfully carry out the burial of their beloved leader before sunset. Lo and behold, the sun literally waited until the last respect was paid and the mourners started for their homes to light the Sabbath candles. This episode is alluded to in the engraving on the tombstone (picture attached: KARLSRUHE MAY 06 006.jpg), which has withstood the ravages of Napoleonic, Prussian and European wars for nearly three centuries.
With regards to the exact date and time of Rabbi's Weil's 'petira', Mr David Seldner contends that there are differences between the local council's version and the universally accepted version. The date on the Korban Netanel's tombstone is 7.5.1769, which was on a Sunday (30 Nisan 5529, Erev Rosh Chodesh Iyar). However, according to Jewish sources, he was niftar 15 Iyar 5529, which was the 22 May 1769 and was on a Monday. To compound matters further, it is a well-known historical fact that Erev Shabbos was the day he was niftar. In fact, the levaya was attended by many gentiles, who regarded him as their 'wunder-rabiner'.
In the late 1800's, the local municipality won a decades-long legal wrangle with the local Jewish community, regarding the relocation of the Jewish cemetery on Mendelssohn Platz, to make way for a new tenement complex. The last funeral there was in 1826 and the remains were transferred en masse in 1898, to the cemetery in the Kriegsstrasse (which was closed in 1896) and also to the now still used cemetery in the Haid-und-Neustrasse. This is when the remains of the holy Korban Nesanel, together with many hundreds of Kevorim were transferred to their current resting place. Rabbis from the local provinces, together with some French Rabbonim were involved in the transfer, to ensure all was done according to Halocho.
About Jewish Karlsruhe:
According to Mr Seldner, head of the Jewish Community, there were two synagogues and one Hassidic shtiebel – the first of its kind in the whole of Germany - before the 2nd
World War, all were destroyed during this infamous period.
As a sign of the rejuvenation of the Kehilla, a new purpose-built Shul was built in 1971, in the shape of the Mogen Dovid - Star of David. It is well attended by some 30 people on a regular Shabbos and about 300 worshippers flock there on the high holidays.
The Yahrzeit of the Korban Nesanel:
Traditionally, Jews from surrounding cities - as far away as Zurich in Switzerland and nearby Strasbourg, France - used to frequent his burial place to spend time praying for salvation, for health and other requests.
Since Reb Dovid Scharf (1937-2015), a Belz Chossid from Antwerp, Belgium started visiting the grave, improvements became noticeable. This year, the assembled numbered over twenty people, a marked improvement on previous years.
In what could be termed as a positive development, this event cemented the beginning of a link between several Jewish communities throughout Europe. All participants were unified in the aim to further the dissemination of Jewish values and enhancing the life of a fellow Jew.
It is to be hoped that the merit of this great sage, who has guided so many generations with his prolific Halachic writings, will effect salvation and blessings on the Jewish people and especially those who took the trouble of praying at his resting place.
See also: http://rietjevanvliet.wordpress.com/2010/06/21/karlsruhe/
To make initial contact:
Menasche Scharf
LONDON
M: +44 (0)7974 160 252
e: menasche.scharf@gmail.com.
For more information about future trips to Karlsruhe, contact:
Mr David Seldner
T: +49(0)721/72035
For the first time in many years, there was a minyan at the grave, composed of visitors from Antwerp Belgium, London, England and also some local people.
The Korban Nesanel, as this highly esteemed Rabbinic authority is called lived in Karlsruhe and was buried there. However his soul departed in neighbouring Rastatt, reportedly on the eve of the holy Sabbath. It has been recounted that whilst the Jewish community of Rastatt were adamant that the Holy Rabbi should be laid to rest in their Cemetery, the Jewish community in Karlsruhe insisted that his wish was to be buried in his hometown. By the time the Karlsruhe community succeeded in convincing their Rastatt counterparts to honour the deceased Rabbis wishes, it was already Friday afternoon, nearing candle-lighting time. As much as the hearse hurriedly proceeded along the Rastatt-Karlsruhe road, they couldn't fathom how they would manage to respectfully carry out the burial of their beloved leader before sunset. Lo and behold, the sun literally waited until the last respect was paid and the mourners started for their homes to light the Sabbath candles. This episode is alluded to in the engraving on the tombstone (picture attached: KARLSRUHE MAY 06 006.jpg), which has withstood the ravages of Napoleonic, Prussian and European wars for nearly three centuries.
With regards to the exact date and time of Rabbi's Weil's 'petira', Mr David Seldner contends that there are differences between the local council's version and the universally accepted version. The date on the Korban Netanel's tombstone is 7.5.1769, which was on a Sunday (30 Nisan 5529, Erev Rosh Chodesh Iyar). However, according to Jewish sources, he was niftar 15 Iyar 5529, which was the 22 May 1769 and was on a Monday. To compound matters further, it is a well-known historical fact that Erev Shabbos was the day he was niftar. In fact, the levaya was attended by many gentiles, who regarded him as their 'wunder-rabiner'.
In the late 1800's, the local municipality won a decades-long legal wrangle with the local Jewish community, regarding the relocation of the Jewish cemetery on Mendelssohn Platz, to make way for a new tenement complex. The last funeral there was in 1826 and the remains were transferred en masse in 1898, to the cemetery in the Kriegsstrasse (which was closed in 1896) and also to the now still used cemetery in the Haid-und-Neustrasse. This is when the remains of the holy Korban Nesanel, together with many hundreds of Kevorim were transferred to their current resting place. Rabbis from the local provinces, together with some French Rabbonim were involved in the transfer, to ensure all was done according to Halocho.
About Jewish Karlsruhe:
According to Mr Seldner, head of the Jewish Community, there were two synagogues and one Hassidic shtiebel – the first of its kind in the whole of Germany - before the 2nd
World War, all were destroyed during this infamous period.
As a sign of the rejuvenation of the Kehilla, a new purpose-built Shul was built in 1971, in the shape of the Mogen Dovid - Star of David. It is well attended by some 30 people on a regular Shabbos and about 300 worshippers flock there on the high holidays.
The Yahrzeit of the Korban Nesanel:
Traditionally, Jews from surrounding cities - as far away as Zurich in Switzerland and nearby Strasbourg, France - used to frequent his burial place to spend time praying for salvation, for health and other requests.
Since Reb Dovid Scharf (1937-2015), a Belz Chossid from Antwerp, Belgium started visiting the grave, improvements became noticeable. This year, the assembled numbered over twenty people, a marked improvement on previous years.
 |
| Moshe Cheyoun, the local Chazan, Mr Dovid Scharf of Antwerp and Mr David Seldner of Karlsruhe |
It is to be hoped that the merit of this great sage, who has guided so many generations with his prolific Halachic writings, will effect salvation and blessings on the Jewish people and especially those who took the trouble of praying at his resting place.
To make initial contact:
Menasche Scharf
M: +44 (0)7974 160 252
e: menasche.scharf@gmail.com.
For more information about future trips to Karlsruhe, contact:
Mr David Seldner
T: +49(0)721/72035
Two wailing children - two worlds apart.
I was trying to orientate myself in the crowded central train station of Stuttgart. There I was after arriving on a flight from London's Stanstead airport, on my way to meet my father at one of Karlsruhe's Jewish cemeteries.
Across the bench was this mother with a little daughter, maybe 3 years old, who was waiting for the same train as me. It so happened that when we boarded the train, they chose to occupy the seats across the aisle, a fact that made me more at ease, not having to endure the stares and the renewed feelings felt as an ultra-orthodox Jew in a pure Arian environment.
Soon the last shrill sound of the conductor was heard, at which point the little girl realised that her favourite Winnie the Pooh, with a little zipper on his back was missing his baby teddy bear. She started becoming agitated, so her mother warned her to stay put whilst she was going to check it out on the platform. As the doors were already closing, there wasn't much she could do but to wait until the train started moving. When she returned to the child, her look betrayed the reality of the situation, at which point a huge hue and cry ensued, lasting a couple of minutes. I offered some of my home-baked biscuits, which served to divert her attention for a fleeting moment. Her mother was waiting for this opportunity and quickly presented her daughter with a treat: she will read to her from the animal story book.
That afternoon, the local workers union held a remembrance event for the Jewish children who were deported during the Nazi regime to Auschwitz via the Gurs detention camp. Special emphasis was placed on the fact that there was an overt partnership between the Wehrmacht and the then Deutsche Reichsbahn - without which the Nazis wouldn't have been able to carry out their devious plans.
Mr Jürgen Ziegler, chairman of the Retailers' Union of Baden related the following chilling story:
I was about 10 or 11 at the time, when strolling across the platform in the Karlsruhe train station I was called over by a little girl leaning out the window of a train. Her request: please take this coin and bring some drinking water for me and my crying brother. There were adults on the platform; still she chose me as the others were too preoccupied with some very serious business: they were saying goodbye to their children, wondering if they will ever see them again. Guarding the little kids was a couple of German SS'ers, one of whom happened to witness the exchange. He slapped the girls hand and ordered me not to return and to keep the money for myself. As I was retreating, I saw a man - most probably the father of the unfortunate children - fall on his knees in front of the devil and beg him "gnade, gnade" (lit. have mercy). The soldier lifted his pistol, shot the man in the head and ordered bystanders to chuck the lifeless corpse onto the train full of little children. The train's destination: the Gurs detention camp. From there the final stop was the infamous extermination camp Auschwitz. Out of over a hundred children, a minute number survived, only to return to a Karlsruhe bereft of their parents, their friends, devoid of the whole Jewish community."
The assembled, many of them in their late seventies, were by now wiping away tears. I sat there and wondered: if only these people would get up and share their experiences! What role did they play in the scenario that was just recounted, how did they behave in those dark times?
On my way back to London, it struck me how two seemingly unrelated cries of two children, one which I witnessed on the train and the other which was recounted on the same day - the contrast, the anguish, and the helplessness. Human brains would have to grow at least a couple of billion neurons to start comprehending the enormity of this paradox.
The event was well attended, during which Rev. Moshe Hayoun; the local Chazzan recited Tehillim and translated into German for visitors from amongst the local population and who was introduced by the head of the Jewish Community Mr David Seldner.
In what could be termed as a positive development, this event cemented the beginning of a link between several Jewish communities throughout Europe. All participants were unified in the aim to further the dissemination of Jewish values and enhancing the life of a fellow Jew.
For this occasion, I presented a special souvenir to the Karlsruhe Jewish Community: The Gurs Haggadah, which contains a facsimile of the hand-written Haggadah, by an inmate in the Gurs detention camp, southern France, which was then under the Vichy government's area of jurisdiction. Anyone familiar with the Karlsruhe community will know that over one hundred children were deported to this camp, from where they were subsequently sent on the death-trains to Auschwitz.
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