The congregants of the historic “Alter Shul” synagogue, one of the synagogues of the united Dnipro Jewish Community, whose building houses the “Good Future” rehabilitation center for people with difficult life circumstances who require special attention, socialization, psychological and spiritual support, and adaptation, celebrated the holiday of Lag B’Omer brightly and joyfully. They organized a trip out into nature in an atmosphere of unity, Chassidic joy, and true Ahavas Yisrael.
The celebration took place in the format of a large picnic in nature, continuing the tradition associated with the observance of Lag B’Omer among the great Chassidic tzaddikim, including the Tzemach Tzedek, who, according to Chassidic tradition, also spent this day outdoors. The participants shot arrows from bows, rested, socialized, and shared the joy of this special day, associated with the yahrzeit of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai and the cessation of the plague among Rabbi Akiva’s students.
An important part of the gathering was the shared meal and warm, friendly fellowship – a variety of refreshments, pickles, and traditional dishes were prepared for the participants. L’chaims were raised, conversations and entertainment took place, thanks to which all present were able to receive a charge of vigor, inspiration, and spiritual energy.
“Lag B’Omer is a special time of joy, unity, and the revelation of a unique inner energy,” says Rabbi Adam Smilyansky. “For our special congregants, such events are particularly important, because during them we experience a wonderful feeling of achdus – true unity – which is possible thanks to the constant care and support from our dear, united, and cohesive Dnipro Jewish Community under the leadership of Chief Rabbi Shmuel Kaminezki, and the special attention that Rebbetzin Chana Kaminezki devotes to our work.”
