123 Orphans Get Magnificent Bar Mitzva for the Rebbe’s Birthday

In an emotional and joy-filled gathering, 123 orphaned boys from across Eretz Yisroel—several of whom lost their fathers in the ongoing Iron Swords war—celebrated their Bar Mitzvah together in a moving event arranged by Colel Chabad, in honor of the Rebbe’s 123rd birthday.

In an emotional and joy-filled gathering, 123 orphaned boys from across Eretz Yisroel—among them several who lost their fathers in the recent Iron Swords war—celebrated their Bar Mitzvah together in a moving event arranged by Colel Chabad, in honor of the Rebbe’s 123rd birthday.

The central celebration was held in Binyanei Ha’umah in Yerushalayim, following a special morning tefillah at the Kosel.

At the grand event, the Bar Mitzvah boys were treated to a festive and elegant seudah, graced by the presence of Gedolei Yisroel, government ministers, and public figures. Among those who came to bless the boys were Rishon L’Tzion Harav Dovid Yosef, Harav Kalman Ber, Harav Shlomo Moshe Amar, and Harav Dovid Lau.

The crowd was visibly moved by the appearance of Rabbi Yitzchok Marton, a beloved figure who devoted his life to caring for orphans. One of his own sons, who was among the Bar Mitzvah boys, delivered a heartfelt speech about his father’s legacy, and later sang together with his brother, stirring the hearts of all present.

Adding to the atmosphere of joy, singer Yair Elitzur enlivened the crowd with his hit song “Od Yoter Tov,” joined by Yishai Lapidot in musical performance. A lively trivia game brought smiles and excitement, with each Bar Mitzvah boy receiving a response remote and participating in the interactive challenge.

Each boy received a personal gift and a warm bracha, with the entire program produced with precision, care, and genuine warmth by Colel Chabad and its dedicated staff. “Every boy is a world unto himself,” said Rabbi Sholom Duchman and Rabbi Mendy Bloi, “and although it was a large event, each one was treated like an only child—with dignity, joy, and personal attention.”

The celebration was arranged with the support of the Ish Yisroel foundation in memory of Rabbi Avrohom Yitzchok Schlossberg a”h, through the generosity of his son, Reb Eliahu Schlossberg. The event was emceed by R’ Ephraim Kamisar and produced by Tzva’im Productions.

Family members shared their deep gratitude:

“The logistics, the heart, the attention to every detail—it was clear this was done with true love,” wrote one mother. “Our son was glowing with simcha. It gave us strength.”

Another parent added, “You gave our child—and us—a memory to cherish for life. May Hashem repay each of you with bracha, health, and continued success in this holy work.”

Photos: Chaim Tuito, Mendy Kurant