Rabbi's Blog

Dear OZ family,

Another glorious day is before us. I remember the messages I sent out last spring and summer when so much of what was ahead was unknown to us. My messages were meant to strengthen the reader and writer for resolute conviction to face the challenges ahead. Alisa and I continue to face every day’s challenges with the support and love of our community and we thank you all for your affection and love. We see a bright light before us by the end of the summer and each day brings us closer to it.

I invite everyone to hear two very inspiring people who will speak at the shul this evening. Rob and Sue Koltai, who were members of OZ 25 years ago, made Aliyah and raised a beautiful family together. They are the parents of the 13 year old, Azi z”l, who was crushed in the Meron tragedy this past Lag B’omer. They will speak of their pain of what was lost, but also of the incredible love, compassion, and empathy that they have found. They will discuss what they have done in these difficult weeks since Lag B’omer and what they hope to continue to accomplish. The Youth Dept. Siyum at 6:00pm in the Social Hall will be dedicated to Azi's memory. The main program will begin at 7:15pm in the Main Shul (between the 6:45pm Plag Minyan and the 8:15pm Zman Minyan). Please don’t miss this opportunity to add great meaning to our 9 days experience leading to Tisha B’av. This is a time to make ourselves better and after you hear the Koltai’s you’ll be inspired to do just that.

Let us celebrate another day of living well and doing good things.

Be healthy.  Stay well.  Be excellent.

Rabbi Allen Schwartz

Rabbi Allen Schwartz

Congregation Ohab Zedek

118 West 95^th Street | New York, NY  10025-6604

Phone 212.749-5150, ext 200 | Fax 212.663-3635

E-mail ras@ozny.org

Website:  www.ozny.org