Early this morning, 2 of our teens wanted to see Rabbi Elyashev, a prominent Rabbi in Israel. To accomplish that, 5 counselors got up at 5AM and transported the two teens in their wheelchairs to the greet Rabbi. There, the boys were able to ask a Torah questions to Rav Elyashev. An incredible experience.
Once again the rain did not stop our fearless troopers, as we took to the streets early Friday afternoon. Soaking up the Erev Shabbat “Geula scene,” we went hustling and bustling about for last minute Shabbat purchases and gift buying. Trotting through the puddles, we made it down to Manny’s book store for some more ruckus and uproar. The group then headed into the heart of Bais Yisroel area to Pizza Shai, for a true authentic Mir lunch experience.
After an early candle lighting, we loaded up the bus and headed out for kabbalat Shabbat at the Kotel. We gathered together under the enclosed section of the Kotel to pray under the leadership of our very own Ari Dembitzer. Our hearts were filled with warm songs and prayers as many strangers as well as familiar faces joined together to sing as one. We then geared up for the trek back to the hotel. The group had the privilege to have the extended Chai Lifeline family join them in an extravagant Friday night meal. We ate, sang, and danced together as one big family. The joyous occasion served as true inspiration to us all.