Chief Rabbi of Russia, Rabbi Berel Lazar took time from his busy schedule to share in a whirlwind of spiritual activity for a Hachnsat Sefer Torah in the Jewish community of Rostov on Beis Nissan, the yartzeit of the Rebbe Rashab.

The beautiful new Torah was donated by Hong Kong businessman, Mr. Isaac Kamhin and his family, in honor of his in-laws, Avraham and Badriyeh Shammah obm. Mr. Kamhin traveled from Hong Kong with his son Moish and 8 year old grandson Ziki to participate in the celebration. They were joined by his brother in law, Morris Shammah of New York.

The President of the community Yuri Rubinov and local Shliach Rabbi Chaim Danzinger greeted Rabbi Lazar at the airport and accompanied him to the Ohel of the Rebbe Reshab, where they met additional prominent members of the community. Rabbi Lazar led a recital of Tehillim and explained the meaning and significance of the traditions commemorating a Yarhzeit.

Rabbi Lazar toured the local Ohr Avner day school and personally tested children on their knowledge of Aleph Beis and the upcoming Pesach holiday, and he was very impressed by their understanding of Jewish traditions. The children were thrilled and motivated by their illustrious guest.

At the shul a festive banquet was held with esteemed members of the community in honor of Rabbi Lazar’s visit and the momentous occasion of acquiring a new sefer Torah. Rabbi Danzinger thanked Rabbi Lazar for his tremendous ongoing moral support and financial assistance, and expressed his deep appreciation to Mr. Kamhin and family for their exceptional gift to the Rostov community.

The final letters in the Torah scroll were inscribed at the auditorium of the Jewish day school. Notwithstanding overcast weather conditions, a huge crowd gathered to accompany the Torah procession through the streets which were conveniently blocked off to traffic by local police authorities.  A live band performed Jewish music and students carried torches alight, while local citizens and bystanders took pictures of this unique occurrence.

“I can’t believe I’m seeing the police holding back traffic, so that Jews can dance with the Torah in the streets of Rostov!” Said Anton Morduchaev, a young medical student.

The lively hakafos in the synagogue and Rabbi Lazars meaningful words and fascinating stories, inspired everyone. Moish Kamhin added to the joyous atmosphere, leading singing and dancing. Mr. Kamhin addressed the crowd with moving words, explaining, “… I thought life in Hong Kong was challenging, but I am amazed to see the true mesiras nefesh that Jews must have living in Rostov. I thank you for giving me the opportunity to donate a Sefer Torah to Rostov on this special date.”

On Beis Nissan, the Rebbe Rashab’s Yahrzeit, the city of Rostov radiated Jewish pride and simcha in this unforgettable Torah celebration.