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Rabbi's Blog

Thoughts and Musings by Rabbi Yossi Zaklikofsky

Tidal Waves of Kindness

Tidal Waves of Kindness

This week has been a busy one for all of us, but a devastating one for many.

The wide-spread flooding in Houston has created a nightmare situation for many families, with their homes or valuable possessions destroyed. Our hearts go out to all those who were affected by the storm and especially to the Alter family after the worst news one could imagine was confirmed overnight.

The response from the community at large to assist families hit by the storm is truly inspiring. Our Facebook feeds have been flooded with tidal waves of kindness as friends and strangers reach out to each other to coordinate, volunteer and help with the relief efforts in so many different ways! 

Yesterday I had the opportunity to join 'The Shul's teen community in helping to bring back some calm and order to a home ruined by the flooding.

For two hours these young boys and girls, lifted, scrubbed, schlepped and organized. The selflessness of our youth is truly awe inspiring.

Click here for news story on Chabad of Houston's relief efforts

Flood relief 3.jpg

We have organized additional groups of volunteers which will be going out to homes on Sunday. If you know someone who is in need of help or supplies, please let us know. If you are willing to volunteer some time, please let us know as well.

To contribute towards these efforts, please click here.

May G-d be with all those affected as they try to restore their lives to normalcy and regain a sense of peace!

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Yossi Zaklikofsky

 

 

Making summer plans?

Making summer plans?

Yesterday the Jewish world celebrated Lag BaOmer

Before the great sage Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai passed away, he asked that the day of his passing be celebrated in recognition of the teachings of Kabbalah (Jewish mysticism) which he was privileged to introduce to the world.

The tradition became to celebrate this day with great fanfare and outdoor celebrations. I have fond childhood memories of Lag BaOmer picnics in the parks of Farmington Hills, Michigan. Twice, I was lucky enough to celebrate with thousands of Jews in Meron, Israel, at the actual resting place of Rabbi Shimon. 

Yesterday, my kids and I enjoyed a beautiful Lag BaOmer family celebration at Torah Day School on Fondren.

Speaking of the outdoors, I'd like to bring to your attention an outstanding summer retreat opportunity! 

The National Jewish Retreat

Celebrating its 10th year, this program has steadily been attracting an increasing number of people looking for the best in luxurious accommodations, gourmet cuisine, a relaxing atmosphere and interesting entertainment. This year the Retreat will be held at The Omni Shoreham in Washington, D.C. for the second weekend in August.

Program Highlights CLICK HERE.

Website and Registration: www.JRetreat.com 

 Let me know if you have any further questions,

 
Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Yossi Zaklikofsky

 

New Babies in Houston and Nepal

New Babies in Houston and Nepal 

This week our family is overly excited to welcome home Esty and new baby Rivkah, in time for Shabbat. We are eternally grateful to G-d for this wonderful blessing and new addition to our family.

On the subject of new babies, we are proud of the IDF as a 3rd baby was born at the IDF field hospital that was set up in Nepal, following the earthquake read more here.

The global community stands in awe watching the incredible efforts of my colleagues Rabbi Chezki and Chani Lifschitz – Chabad representatives to Nepal – who had their hands full ever since the devastating earthquake hit Nepal on Saturday.

When the situation in their home-turned-rescue-center became overwhelming, their children were sent to Israel to spend time in the care of family while the parents stayed behind to continue the rescue and relief efforts.

On Wednesday, Israel President Rivlin welcomed the Lifschitz children to his residence in Jerusalem and a phone call was placed to say hello to Mom and Dad back in Kathmandu.

Israel's President 

Watch video of their meeting: www.JewishBellaire.com/2932994 

This couple are living examples of what we will read in the Torah tomorrow “Love Your Fellow As Yourself”.

We can assist them in their work by making a contribution to the rescue efforts by clicking here.

Additional articles: 

The Chabad Center serves 2,000 Meals in a Single Day to Nepalis Continue reading…

Shabbat Comes to Nepal After a Week Filled with Harrow and Hope Continue reading…

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Tomorrow at Shul we celebrate the Bar-Mitzvah of Jet Baer, as he is called to the Torah for the very first time. Join us. 

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Yossi Zaklikofsky

 

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