The Jewish Community of Dnipro organized a large-scale women’s event, “Mega Challah Bake”, held in memory of Leah (Likush) Altoys on the day of her yahrzeit. All attendees were given the opportunity to write a PaN (Pidyon Nefesh) at the beginning of the event.
The event was led by Aliza Rabinovich, Head of Hebrew and Jewish Studies at the Levi Yitzchak Schneerson Jewish Lyceum No. 144, who shared memories of how remarkable Likush Altoys was — a dedicated emissary of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, who served as assistant principal at the Jewish school in Dnipro and made a tremendous contribution to spreading the light of Yiddishkeit and Chassidus in the community. Aliza explained why the mitzvah of Hafrashat Challah, one of the most important commandments for Jewish women, was chosen as the format to honor her legacy.
At the start of the program, the lyceum’s director, Olena Krasnova, was invited to the stage and honored on the occasion of her Jewish birthday. The audience then watched a video of the Rebbe, and Aliza explained the spiritual significance of each ingredient and every step of the dough preparation and challah separation.
Rebbetzin Chana Kaminezki, emissary of the Lubavitcher Rebbe and wife of the Chief Rabbi of Dnipro and the region, was invited to lead the mitzvah. All the women joined her in performing this sacred commandment.
While the dough was rising, the participants enjoyed fun and inspiring games, contests, and a delicious kosher dinner. Afterwards, a hands-on workshop was held where women learned how to braid beautiful Shabbat challahs, which they took home to share with their families for the Shabbat meal.
“It was a very moving and heartfelt event – our beautiful ‘Mega Challah Bake’,” said Aliza Rabinovich. “I want to express deep gratitude to the Jewish Community of Dnipro for their support, and to all the women of our Judaic Studies department. Special thanks to Iegudis Futerfas, Malka Feldman, Leah Lazareva, Rebbetzin Chana Kaminezki, and Ms. Olena Krasnova – without their inspiration and help, this magical evening would not have been possible.”
