Machon L’Yahadus Kicks Off Annual Winter Program

Winter can’t feel too cold when there’s a veritable fire blazing in its midst. The Winter Program at Machon L’Yahadus is just this: a source of life and warmth to tens of students every winter.

This year’s program has gotten off to a vibrant start. While most of the students are from the US, a number of international students have joined as well. Some of the highlights in the first days include a special welcome program for the students hosted by Mrs. Myriam Swerdlov, a fun and fascinating visit to Sofer Rabbi Yehuda Clapman, and a panel of women who shared their wisdom on juggling Judaism in the workplace.

Rabbi Shlomo Majeski, principal at Machon L’Yahadus, commented on the program, “It is an incredible phenomenon to witness: young women – who could be choosing to use their time off from college doing any number of things – opt to spend 12 days immersing themselves in authentic Torah learning and Jewish experiences.”

In fact, the program provides a healthy and enjoyable balance of learning, hands-on experiences and free-time. The morning boasts a comprehensive schedule of high quality study with top notch teachers, while the afternoons & evenings are packed with Jewish life experiences and interesting panels, such as a tour of one of the local Mikvaos, a wedding, workshops with Sara Karmely and Sara Morosow, and a panel with Machon L’Yahadus alumni on the topic of family relationships.

Rivkah Luchins, who directs the program, shared: “It’s an incredible program – solid, packed, and inspiring. The girls come out with so much more than they imagined they could in 12 short days. Especially during these times, it is remarkable that these students come to learn and be proudly Jewish, and rather than feel bogged down by the situation in the world, they come to be strengthened. ”

Davina Shapiro and Chaya Raizel Michelson, the Madrichot for the program this year, noted the incredible energy in the air as they entered the lunch the first day. Additional tables and chairs were added to accommodate the 50 people at lunch – the Winter Program students, full-time students who study in Machon L’Yahadus throughout the year and a few teachers. A fun icebreaker run by Chaya Raizel – herself an alum of last year’s Winter Program and now a full-time student – helped the two diverse groups get to know each other.

The Machon L’Yahadus dorm on President Street is completely full, so two spacious apartments were rented especially for the winter program women – a space stocked with everything they will need for their 12-day stay.

The effects of the program are far-reaching, as is evidenced by the many students who came for last year’s program and chose to stay on for full-time learning or registered for this academic year after graduating from college.

For more information about Machon L’Yahadus’ full-time or Taste of Yeshiva programs, visit womensyeshiva.org or email info@womensyeshiva.org.