L’Chaim-Chabad Lubavitch concluded another successful season of educational experiences for Manchester’s Jewish community. With a bevy of programmes for children and adults, there was something for all ages.
The break from the traditional classroom setting in the summer provides an ideal environment for children to learn about their Jewish heritage through deeper, more sensory experiences. In this spirit, before children and teens left for the summer, L’Chaim ran a series of empowering graduations, as well as interactive educational events connected to the mourning period known as "The Three Weeks."
Four of our most exciting children’s programmes concluded for the year. Girls Youth Club, now in its second year, had a special scrap-booking event. Both CTeen Manchester Girl’s and Boy’s divisions came to a successful close, with delicious year-end BBQs. Special emphasis was put on teaching teens critical leadership skills as they take initiative in crafting next year’s experience.
Rounding out the programming for children, Little Chefs concluded with a special session on building the Holy Temple. Our little gourmands made rice krispie chew Kosel pictures to take home and enjoy.
One parent, Mrs. E. Epstein, wrote to L’Chaim in thanks for the successful children's’ programming. “I appreciate all you do for my kids,” she said. “They love your activities.”
L’Chaim - Jewish Learning Institute held a fascinating video presentation on Tisha B’Av, the day of mourning for the destruction of the two Holy Temples in Jerusalem and the subsequent exile. Titled “Triumph of Hope” the video featured first-time footage of Holocaust survivors sharing their recollections of faith amidst the harrowing experiences during the War. Some 70 members of the community gathered for the screening, followed by an interactive class delivered by Rabbi Levi Cohen.
As part of the Lads and Dads Jewish D.I.Y. programme some 30 fathers and sons from the Holy Law and Heaton Park shuls gathered to build a replica of the Beis Hamikdash, the Holy Temple. Not only a stunning model of the Holy Temple, these projects came with a unique twist: Each model also serves as a working charity box. From scraps of wood, screws and a little imagination, the father-son teams were able to create beautiful models they could bring home to share with others.
Our Young Jewish Professionals enjoyed a unique stroll in the picturesque Derwent Valley in The Pennine Hills. For these hard working young professionals, this trip with L’Chaim gave them the chance to rest and network with like-minded Jews in the fresh country air.
As the year ends, and we prepare for the new one, it was time to say goodbye to the 60 Friday Boys who spent the year in Manchester. Hailing from around the world, these Yeshiva students spent their free time visiting the local Jewish community. A lovely party was held in their honour at the Warth Business Centre. We wish them “Hatzlocha Raba” - “much success” in all of their future endeavours!
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