Pretoria Marks Smicha Graduation

Some 200 people joined the Yeshiva LeRabbonus of Pretoria as they celebrated the graduation of the Musmachim this past Sunday. The Smicha, signed by Rabbi C. Finkelstein, Rabbi G. Fox and Rabbi Z.N. Goldberg, was not the only certificate they received.

As part of their training for Shlichus, the Bochrim have regular involvement with all aspects and organisations of the community. To express their appreciation, Ganeinu, the local kindergarten, had the children present each bochur with a certificate of appreciation. The same was done by Jaffa, the retirement home where the celebration took place, due to the close and meaningful relationship they developed with the Bochrim. Finally, they received gifts from the Pretoria Hebrew Congregation which houses, supports and co-funds this remarkable Yeshiva.

Guests of honor included the Chief Rabbi of South Africa who, in his address to the Musmachim, reminded them of an important message in leadership which the Rebbe always taught. He highlighted the sense of optimism which the Rebbe always demanded of leaders, especially in South Africa and charged the newly ordained Rabbis to continue to be ambassadors of hope and positivity.

Rabbi Finkelstein reminded both Bochrim and guests alike that, apart from a high and supported standard of learning, the Yeshiva LeRabbonus provides practical application of the life of a Rabbi and Shliach. He made special mention of the fact that, with the tools acquired at the Yeshiva, they have been given the key to continue learning and plumb the depths of Torah knowledge and practical Halocha and have a responsibility to continue to do so.

Concluding the event, Rabbi Fox left the Musmachim with two important messages. Firstly, leadership is done through example. As such, the Musmachim need to be a dugma Chaya in all aspects of Torah and Mitzvos in a manner that shows to all that there is nothing more precious and beautiful than a life of Torah. Finally, he reminded them that they must lead with compassion, love and care for all those whom they will have the privilege of leading.

Other notable guests included the Rov of Chabad South Africa, Rabbi S.B. Groner and Rabbi Noam Wagner, Rosh Yeshiva of Lubavitch Yeshiva Gedola of Johannesburg.

Place is still available for 5777. To find out more please visit our website at www.smicha.co.za