Incredible Joy at Hachnosas Sefer Torah for R’ Arele Oster

In a powerful display of achdus and simcha, the Monsey community gathered for a hachnosas sefer Torah written l’zechus the refuah of Reb Ahron ben Chana Oster. Arele’s remarkable journey continues to inspire, as his home, Arele’s shtiebel, has become a center of davening and emunah.

On Sunday, 12 Sivan, the Monsey community experienced a powerful outpouring of achdus, emunah, and heartfelt simcha as hundreds gathered for an uplifting hachnosas sefer Torah.

The sefer Torah was written l’zechus the complete refuah shleima of Reb Ahron ben Chana Oster, by his family, friends, and the devoted mispalelim of Arele’s shtiebel, who have stood by his side with unwavering love and support. What began years ago as a plea for a miracle has become a living testimony of hope, unity, and the koach of Klal Yisroel’s tefillos.

From the start, the event carried deep emotion, marking the transition from a time of immense pain to an afternoon of pure simcha and a celebration of Torah. Reb Ahron ben Chana, known to many as “Arele,” is still on his long road to recovery after a life-altering medical crisis. Yet his home, now known as Arele’s shtiebel, has become a vibrant center of tefilla, chesed, and achdus, where the warmth of many communities comes together to express the very best of Klal Yisroel. This sefer Torah was not just in his merit, it was a tribute to the strength, emunah, and unity he continues to inspire.

The siyum of the sefer Torah began at the home of Rabbi Aaron Elbaum, a dedicated mispalel of Arele’s shtiebel. Surrounded by family, friends, and neighbors, the atmosphere was charged with emotion as the final letters were inscribed.

A lively procession followed, filled with music, dancing, and simcha. Children waved flags, men danced arm-in-arm, and the streets of Monsey rang with joyous song as the sefer Torah made its way to Arele’s shtiebel. It was a vibrant display of unity, with Yidden of all backgrounds joining together in celebration and support for Reb Ahron ben Chana.

At Arele’s shtiebel, the energy reached its peak during the hakafos. Arele watched with tears in his eyes as the Torah was joyfully danced around him. It was more than a celebration, it was a moment of connection, a powerful expression of the emunah and davening of those around him. Some danced with uncontainable joy; others stood in quiet reflection, deeply moved by the milestone.

After the hakafos, a grand seudah brought the community together to continue the simcha. Divrei Torah and warm words of chizuk filled the room, as stories were shared of how Arele’s journey has brought together communities, inspired acts of chesed, and deepened people’s connection to Torah. Speakers reflected on his passion for Torah and the powerful role Arele’s shtiebel plays in his continued refuah.

This unforgettable evening was made possible through the dedication and tireless efforts of many members of the community. Special thanks go to the vaad of devoted yungeleit, as well as the gabo’im, R‘ Sruly Feig, R’ Avrohom Beinush Vaks, and R’ Levi Baruch, whose commitment was instrumental in bringing it all together.

A heartfelt acknowledgement goes to R’ Yoel Berkowitz, who went above and beyond in an extraordinary way. In addition to his role in organizing the seudah, he also leads a kapelye of Satmar yungeleit who, for over four years, have come weekly to bring joy to R’ Aharon ben Chana. And of course, countless others gave of themselves generously to make this event truly special. The entire community is deeply grateful for their devotion and spirit they brought to this special occasion.

Though the hachnosas sefer Torah has ended, the journey continues. Arele’s care remains ongoing. Therapy, support, and recovery are still very much a daily part of his life. The sefer Torah may be complete, but our tefillos and support are still needed.

To be part of this incredible story, you can still dedicate a letter, word, or parsha at ArelesShtibel.org. You can also contribute to the Refuah Fund, which directly supports Arele’s continued healing by clicking here.