8/18/05

Dear Friends,

This Shabbat carries the name “Shabbat Nachamu” the Shabbat of comfort following the 9th of Av, the day of destruction of the Beit Hamikdosh. Unfortunately, this week we have seen destruction once again of Jewish communities in Gush Katif, their shuls, Jewish schools, cemeteries, and devastating thousands of Jewish lives. It is certainly a time that we request of the Almighty “Nachamu Nachamu Ami” – give us that comfort!

The Lubavitcher Rebbe, of blessed memory, would often encourage utilizing times of challenge to strengthen ourselves in the study of Torah, increasing in the giving of charity, and adding tefillah [prayer], for example, an additional chapter of tehillim [psalms] for the sake of Israel. Childrens' prayers are of special significance, as King David teaches in Tehillim, “mipi oililim v'yonkim yesadita oz” – "out of the mouths of babes and sucklings You have established mght, to counter Your enemies, to silence foe and avenger."

We are told that we have a mission to transform all negative into positive, darkness into light. Rather than simply talking about the catastrophic events of this past week, let us act upon it in a positive way, strengthening ourselves with positive energies. In the merit of tzedakah/charity may we see the materialization of the Talmudic teaching “Gedolah tzedakah shemikarevet et haGeulah” great is charity which brings closer the Redemption. May we see the ultimate comfort with the coming of Moshiach!

Best wishes for a Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Zalman Wolowik

The Kiddush at Chabad this week is sponsored by Ben & Esther Farkas. If you'd like to sponsor a future Kiddush in honor or in memory of a family member or friend, please contact Dr. Muller 516-569-0169.

Farbrengens create a warm and vibrant sense of community and are an enjoyable and effective way to communicate Chassidic ideas and ideals. Rabbi Meir Dahan will be hosting Chabad's farbrengen for men this week, in honor of 20 Av, yahrtzeit of the Lubavitcher Rebbe's father, Rabbi Levi Yitzchak Schneerson (1878-1944). The farbrengen will be held Thurday, August 25th , 8:15 pm at the home of R' Meir Dahan, 47 Cedarhurst Ave.

Preparations are underway for our annual sunset cruise, “Reflections V” and Chinese auction to be held Sunday, September 25 th . To ensure the success of our Chinese auction, we seek the assistance and partnership from many individuals and establishments throughout the Five Towns. If you have a gift or service of value, we would be most appreciative of your participation by donating any appropriate items. Your great act of charity and generosity will be recognized at the event. All donations benefiting Chabad's Chinese Auction are tax-deductible. We thank you in advance for your kindness.