On the evening of Tu B’Shevat, the Thornhill–Toronto community gathered at 770 Chabad Gate for a beautiful and inspiring Siyum HaRambam and the joyous beginning of the 45th cycle of Rambam study.

From the outset, the room was filled with achdus and simchah, as community members from all backgrounds came together around the Rebbe’s unifying takanah of learning Rambam daily – the sefer that connects every Jew equally, “katan k’gadol.”

Serving as master of ceremonies, Rabbi Meir Shlomo Zaltzman opened the program with heartfelt words about ahavas Yisroel and true unity through Torah, emphasizing how the Rambam uniquely binds Klal Yisroel together.

Rabbi Zalman Aharon Grossbaum spoke about the special connection of Tu B’Shevat to Torah study and the importance of strengthening one’s bond to the Rambam through daily learning. He highlighted that this date serves as an opportunity to renew one’s commitment to Torah and personal growth.

The siyum was completed by Rabbi Yehoshua Lang, a dedicated baal eisek who faithfully sets aside time each day to learn. Upon finishing the full cycle of one perek a day, he shared insights from the Rebbe’s teachings on the Rambam’s view of the ultimate redemption and the enduring significance of mitzvot, inspiring all present with the power of consistency in learning.

The crowd joined together in spirited niggunim, including “Umal’ah Ha’aretz Dei’ah es Hashem,” filling the hall with warmth and yearning for the geula.

Beginning the new cycle, Rabbi Yirmi Cohen spoke movingly about how precious the Rambam was in the Rebbe’s eyes, sharing stories and encouragement that Torah study should feel fresh and alive each day. He urged everyone to strengthen their personal commitment and wished the community mazal tov.

Our guest speaker from Crown Heights, Rabbi Mordechai Dinerman, co-director at JLI’s curriculum department, added depth with a fascinating discussion, with visuals, about the Rambam’s manuscripts, noting how the Rambam continually revised his work – teaching us that our Torah learning, too, should always feel new and vibrant.

Following maariv, Rabbi Dinerman farbrenged about practical resolutions to increase in Rambam study, tzedaka, and immediate action. The message was clear: the daily Rambam is for every Jew, no matter how busy life may be.

The evening was more than a siyum – it was a celebration of Torah, unity, and commitment. Finishing the Rambam together and immediately beginning again created a powerful and uplifting moment for the entire community, leaving everyone inspired for the new cycle ahead.