L’Chaim Chabad rabbis and volunteers are proud of the resounding success of this year’s Purim activities. During the one-day festival, L’Chaim’s numerous communal activities managed to involve the entire community, reaching well over 7,000 Jews, more than one-fifth of Manchester’s Jewish population!
In the weeks preceding the festival, volunteers packed and distributed 5,000 Purim L’Chaim publications and 3,000 mishloach manos gift packages. On the day itself, there were more than 185 megillah readings, and residents and patients at 25 old age homes, 5 hospitals, as well as hundreds of local homes and businesses celebrated with Chabad. “It was one of the most amazing Purim experiences in Manchester ever,” said Rabbi Yisroel Cohen, L’Chaim-Chabad director.
The Purim programmes served every community segment imaginable. Whether it was young girls giggling at the “Glow in the Dark” Purim gathering, teen boys celebrating at their Mediterranean-themed Purim bash, highbrow professionals at lunchtime events at Spinningfields and Warth Business Centers, or adults partying at the Bohemia Lounge, there was a place for each and every person to enjoy the Purim festivities.
The energy was high at Beis Menachem JCC, where more than 150 children enjoyed a special kids’ Purim extravaganza. High school students were treated to their own personal Purim events with megillah readings at King David High School, Manchester Grammar School and Manchester High. “The L’Chaim volunteers were able to bring Purim to life for our students,” said Rabbi Benji Rickman, head of Jewish Studies at KD High.
Members of CTeen - Chabad’s new and rapidly growing teen club - had their own Purim bashes. While the boys enjoyed “Purim Night Fever” - an exciting, Mediterranean-themed spectacular - the girls enjoyed a “Glow in the Dark” Purim with Rebbetzin Zeldie Cohen. “It’s amazing how the girls just take to Zeldie’s infectious enthusiasm,” commented Jeffery Gilbert. “She just needs to say ‘it’s happening’ - and they’re all going.”
L’Chaim volunteers made their way to military bases, spreading the holiday cheer to Jews serving in the armed forces. Said Captain Mike El Mann, “Chabad did an absolutely tremendous job. We are so very grateful.”
Senior centres were high on L’Chaim’s list. Karen Phillips, Chief Executive of The FED, said that she appreciates Chabad’s “Smile on Seniors” programmes all year long, and especially their comprehensive efforts to make Purim accessible and enjoyable for the elderly and home-bound patients. “We could not have done it without them.” She added.
Rural communities also received great Purim cheer with special volunteer delegations. “We were overjoyed to meet other Jews, and were thrilled to take part in the Purim festivities,” said Mr. Harisson of York.
Neville Gouldman, who made his own hamentashen at an adult educational event at the home of Rabbi Levi Cohen, could barely wait to show off his handiwork. “They may not look the greatest,” he joked, “but they are delicious!” Not only did Neville and others learn to bake, but they also discovered many of the deeper meanings and symbolisms associated with the holiday.
Aside from all the Purim parties, L’Chaim arranged convenient megillah readings on the hour every hour, as well as readings in many central locations of Manchester. “The on-the-hour readings were a lifesaver for so many of us,” said Mike Loofe.
“This unprecedented success is thanks to the tireless dedication of our volunteers, staffers and supporters, and the countless community members who participated and assisted in our efforts,” said Rabbi Yisroel Cohen. Tasked by the Lubavitcher Rebbe to reach out and inspire fellow Jews, Chabad emissaries around the world are running thousands of programmes just like Cohen. “It’s an honour to be part of such a prestigious team, and a privilege to serve such a beautiful community.”
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