Lakewood Embraces Yud Tes Kislev with Farbrengens Across the Community
Lakewood, NJ – On Thursday night, the Lakewood and surrounding communities gathered to celebrate Yud Tes Kislev, known as the “Rosh Hashanah of Chassidus.” The event, held at Bnos Devorah Hall, marked the fourth year of a growing English-speaking Yud Tes Kislev farbrengen. Over 70 women and 300 men (respectively) came together to connect with the teachings of Chassidus and the timeless wisdom of Tanya.
Rabbi Manis Friedman Inspires
Rabbi Manis Friedman led the farbrengen with his signature blend of humor, warmth, and deep insights. It wasn’t just a speech—it was a deep farbrengen immersive experience that left attendees inspired and uplifted. Many left with a renewed sense of connection to Yud Tes Kislev and its message of personal and spiritual growth. He also spoke for over an hour on the topic of the world being ready for Moshiach.
https://www.youtube.com/live/WdlCsYCP7kk?si=A3oD-19HnvrDQg6o
Community Efforts Behind the Scenes
This special evening came together thanks to Yosef and Sarah Shidler of DollarDaily.org, Rabbi Moshe & Chanie Gourarie of Chabad of Toms River, and Rabbi Shmuel & Musi Naparstek of Chabad of Jackson. Their efforts were supported by the NJ Mental Health Initiative, Moshe Hecht, and Sholom Leeds, who worked tirelessly to ensure every detail was perfect.
Local businesses played a key role in making the evening memorable. Luminated Events provided professional lighting to create the perfect atmosphere, Nutmeg generously donated delicious dips, Lechem donated piles of Sourdough challahs, Rafel Langsam captured the event’s highlights through photography, and Yehudah Fired Up Kosher provided incredible food that everyone enjoyed.
Farbrengens Across Lakewood
Lakewood didn’t stop there. This year saw more than seven farbrengens for Yud Tes Kislev, a remarkable development for a community historically less connected with Chabad and Chassidus. Some of these events were even organized by individuals outside the Chabad community, showing how the spirit of the day is resonating far and wide.
At Beis Medrash Chabad, Rav Nachum Grunwald led a heartfelt Thursday night farbrengen, offering inspiration and insight into the teachings of Chassidus. For younger participants, Rabbi Shmuel Naparstek organized a special Yud Tes Kislev farbrengen for children on Tuesday night at 645 Cross Street. This unique program featured dinner, crafts, games, raffles, and prizes, giving kids a fun way to connect with the day’s meaning.
A grand Melave Malka organized by Rabbi Chaim Meisles of Heichal Chassidus brought together an audience at Bnos Devorah Hall on Motzei Shabbos Parshas Vayeishev. Featuring speakers like Rabbi Gedalia Oberlander, Rav of Chabad Kingston, and Rabbi Efraim Mintz, Director of the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute (JLI), the evening explored the theme “Chassidus – Light and Vitality for Our Souls.”
In another part of town, Rabbi Ormiland of Margate City led a private farbrengen on Motzei Shabbos, pushing limud HaTanya.
A Community Transformed
Yud Tes Kislev in Lakewood has become a catalyst for unity and inspiration. From public gatherings to farbrengens in private homes and shuls—some organized by non-Chabad individuals—this year’s events highlighted a remarkable shift in the community. As more people discover the relevance and inspiration of Chassidic teachings, Lakewood is embracing a new chapter of connection, unity, and spiritual growth.
