Joburg Fathers and Sons Learn

By Tzvi Rimler

It is 8:00 pm Motzei Shabbos. All of the Lubavitch families in Johannesburg, South Africa have begun winding down from yet another inspiring Shabbos. All, that is, except for 20 or so fathers sitting around tables diligently learning Mishnayos together with their sons. They have come to Yeshiva Gedola Lubavitch of South Africa to participate in a weekly Fathers and Sons learning program aimed at strengthening the unique bond between fathers and sons –with plenty of fun on the side as well.

Spearheaded and directed by Mendel Cohen and Tzvi Rimler the program has become an instant success, enthusiastically received by these young boys, many of them students of the nearby Torah Academy. While many come simply to learn in a relaxed setting, many are attracted by the endless array of prizes, trips and the like.

“The great thing about this program,” explains Levi Mochkin, a student in the Yeshiva, “is that everyone, fathers and sons alike, are able every week to take a little breather and enjoy learning together.”

The program commences with 45 minutes of learning select Mishnayos, culminating in a much anticipated part of the evening; a thrilling game show! In an exciting contest coined “Kluger” and headed by “Judge” Levi Tzukernik, a Shliach in the Yeshiva; the boys are split in to two teams and one boy from each team is called up to be quizzed on what he learned. The first contestant to hit the buzzer gets the chance to answer correctly and earn precious points for his delightful team. The team with the most points at the end of the semester will earn an awesome trip.

“It’s truly a pleasure to see how eagerly they attempt to answer the questions with the teams literally perched on the edge of their seats in suspense,” says Levi.

Yet the fun doesn’t stop there. Beautiful cards with different pictures of the Rebbe on them are given out for coming on time and general good behaviour, and carefully placed in each boy’s individual album, with everyone hopefully waiting to be able to collect the valuable 90 card collection.

Yet Rome wasn’t built in a day, and the Fathers and Sons learning program wasn’t either. A few weeks before the Yeshiva commenced, the Shluchim, emissaries around 20 years old sent to uplift and support the Yeshiva and community, arrived and immediately got to work providing a vigorous boost to the flourishing community. Many community members were touched by these spirited Shluchims’ lively efforts.

“The Shluchim bring a really special level of excitement to the kids,” said Ari Zwick, a member of Lubavitch community and a regular attendee at Fathers and Sons together with his two sons. “The kids look forward to it the entire week and have a great time. The Shluchim even imported ‘modern equipment’ to simulate a live game show environment and the kids simply love it. Yasher koach!!”