For a full year, bochurim in the 770 yeshiva applied themselves with great diligence to intensive study programs, covering broad areas of Torah, sitting for monthly tests, and receiving stipends as an incentive. Just two days after the comprehensive final test, the special event was held, with outstanding talmidim joined by a select group of the “Zevuluns” who support the program throughout the year.

The program, emceed by Rabbi Menachem Mendel Yuzevitch, featured greetings from Rabbi Schneur Zalman Labkowsky, who spoke about the greatness of tzedaka combined with supporting Torah study; Rabbi Pinchas Tzvi Margolis; Rabbi Shalom Dovid Geisinsky, who emphasized the remarkable diligence shown by the bochurim all year; Rabbi Motti Grossman; and Rabbi Moshiach Elias, who encouraged both the bochurim and the supporters to continue with renewed energy in the coming year.

The highlight of the evening came when five representatives – one from each track – ascended the stage to make a siyum on the material covered: the Alter Rebbe’s Shulchan Aruch, Chelek Alef; Likkutei Sichos on Geulah and Moshiach; the hemshech of 5666; halachos of Shabbos and Yom Tov; and Maseches Kesubos. The sight of young bochurim making siyumim on such vast areas of Torah brought great nachas to all in attendance.

Toward the end of the program, outstanding bochurim received certificates of completion together with a double stipend in recognition of their excellence in the final exam.

Following Maariv, the bochurim joined in a seder niggunim led by R’ Zalmy Okunov, which set a heartfelt tone of hiskashrus to the Rebbe. The celebration continued late into the night with a warm farbrengen together with the hanhala of Igud Talmidei Hakvutza, filled with words of inspiration, Chassidishe niggunim, and lively dancing — a true expression of Ashreinu ma tov chelkeinu.

Photos: Mendy Shif