200 Tze’etzo’im from Varied Backgrounds Unite as Family

200 descendants of the Alter Rebbe, coming from all backgrounds and lifestyles, joined together as one family in Central Eretz Yisroel for a beautiful evening of unity and inspiration.

Photography: Mendy Kurant

At an impressive event with a unique family atmosphere, around 200 descendants of the Alter Rebbe, including academics, technology professionals, and senior military officers—celebrated the birthday of their great ancestor. The gathering, which has been held for several years under the branding “Feeling Connected,” took place this year at the Savyon Cultural Center, in the center of Eretz Yisroel, with a fascinating group of descendants from various branches of the rabbinical family.

The heads of the organization, Rabbi Yitzchak Meir and Rabbi Moshe Tzvi Halperin, noted how despite the tense public atmosphere and concerns leading up to the event, it was moving to witness the strength of the connection between the members of the family and their roots.

Particularly touching, was the participation of several families who for years refused to take part in the activities of the Igud Hatze’etzo’im. All concerns dissipated from the very first moments of the event during the opening segment.

The gathering opened with a warm reception in the lobby of the Heichal HaTarbut in Savyon. A luxurious bar, tastefully designed signs, and the excited crowd filled the atmosphere. The heads of the organization warmly welcomed the guests.

At this point, the Rebbe’s shluchim from the hosting city, Rabbi Shmuel Bistritzky, head of the religious council of Savyon, and Mr. Efraim Yelizarov, head of the local religious council, joined the reception and immediately connected to the special atmosphere.

The guests enjoyed themselves, conversed in a relaxed setting, with a stirring violin playing in the background, and a sense of holiness pervaded the air. Adi Gabison and his orchestra took the stage, opening the event with niggunim of the Alter Rebbe, ‘Keili Ata’ and ‘Niggun Yoshon,’ which electrified the atmosphere.

Rabbi Yitzchak Meir Halperin opened with words of Torah, warmly welcoming the crowd in a family-like manner, then handed over the hosting to Rabbi Zalman Ruderman. Rabbi Ruderman graciously guided the audience through the special musical segments and fascinating speeches.

Adi Gabison gave a touching introduction to the niggun ‘Kol Dodi,’ and immediately after, Rabbi Shmuel Slotki—the father of Noam and Yishai, a”h, who sacrificed their lives on Simchat Torah to save others—was invited to the stage. Rabbi Slotki emphasized the principle of “Do not stand idly by.” A Yid does not stand idly by, not only in moments of trial, but as a way of life.

After Rabbi Slotki’s words, a powerful rendition of “Acheinu Kol Beis Yisrael” followed. A heartfelt prayer for the return of our brothers, the victory of our soldiers, and a complete redemption soon.

Rabbi Schneur Ashkenazi delivered a talk on the neshama, which was revealed by their grandfather, the Alter Rebbe. The neshama has the power to unite all extremes, opinions, and styles. We can debate because Yidden debate, but we should never forget our yechida.

Afterward, Amir Harel—a senior high-tech professional and a descendant of the Alter Rebbe—shared his experiences this year when he participated in the Matzah campaign.

To conclude the rare event, Rabbi Moshe Tzvi Halperin bid farewell to the descendants with words of blessing. As the melody of “Kesiva Vachasima Tova” accompanied the crowd, they left, more inspired than ever.

The event was produced by Yonatan Fisher.