In honor of Rebbetzin Chana’s 60th yahrzeit, Israel’s Consul General in New York, Mr. Ofir Akunis, visited the Rebbe’s home on President Street and 770. He was accompanied by his family and Shliach Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Noyman.
In honor of the 60th yahrzeit of Rebbetzin Chana Schneerson, the Consul General of Israel in New York, Mr. Ofir Akunis, visited the Rebbe’s home on President Street and the World Headquarters of Chabad-Lubavitch at 770. He was accompanied by his family, and the visit was arranged by Shliach Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Noyman and his wife.
Mr. Akunis concluded the visit by saying, “We experienced spiritually uplifting hours at the Rebbe’s house and at 770, one of the most important places for the Jewish people. The Rebbe’s influence is still evident today, affecting millions around the world. His wisdom, kindness, and burning faith in the unity of Israel, the love of Israel, and the complete Land of Israel remain a powerful inspiration.”
At the Rebbe’s home, Rabbi Yirmi Berkowitz from the Chabad World Headquarters and Rabbi Mendel Krinsky greeted the Consul. During the visit, Mr. Akunis lit a candle in memory of Rebbetzin Chana and all the holy souls who perished in the ‘Swords of Iron’ War. He also prayed for the success of the IDF soldiers and security forces.
Rabbi Mendel Eisenbach, the director of Chabad at 770, conducted a comprehensive tour of 770 and the broadcasting room. Mr. Akunis took the opportunity to do Tashlich in the courtyard of 770.
In Gan Eden HaTachton, Rabbi Kuti Feldman explained how Chassidim would prepare before entering the Rebbe’s yechidus and the proper approach to entering the sacred space. Draped in a tallis and tefillin, the Consul prayed in the Rebbe’s room and offered a personal prayer. Special thanks were extended to Rabbi Chaim Baruch Halberstam, the caretaker of the Rebbe’s room.
In the lobby of 770, Rabbi Motti Zeligson, a spokesperson for the Chabad movement, shared his memories of the Rebbe’s famous dollar distribution. Rabbi Noyman showed the guests videos from the 15th of Elul 1991, when he, as a young child, had the opportunity to see the Rebbe, and also shared memories of the visit of the then-Israeli Consul General on the same day.
Rabbi Shalom Dovber Levine, the library’s director, gave an extensive tour of the exhibition hall. The Consul was deeply moved by the historical artifacts related to the Chabad Rebbes, especially the personal belongings of the Rebbe.
Photos: David Katash
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