This morning, Yavneh Boys welcomed Rav Yosef Besso-Cowan from Yeshivat Hakotel, who shared an inspiring message after Shacharis. Last year’s head boys, Josh and Otti, are currently learning at Yeshivat Hakotel, serving as role models for our students.
Rav Besso-Cowan shared a thought-provoking idea from the Maharal, reflecting on the era of Noach, when society was fractured by sins like stealing and moral failings. While these actions led to destruction, he emphasized that we have the power to rebuild through honesty, kindness, and respect. He also met with boys in Year 13 who are hoping to attend Yeshivat Hakotel next year, encouraging them to use their potential to bring positive change. His message inspired the boys to live with integrity and purpose, considering the impact they can have on the world around them. The boys were filled with excitement as they welcomed today’s esteemed guest speaker, Rabbi Moshe Feldman, who has been a beloved teacher to many of them at Broughton Jewish. As he entered, they greeted him with joyous singing, creating an uplifting atmosphere. Rabbi Feldman delivered an inspiring message, explaining that we are blessed with an “extra key” to the King’s treasure chest on Yom Kippur, affectionately calling it ‘Yom KeyPur.’ His words served as a profound reminder of the incredible opportunities for teshuvah, urging us all to maximize our potential and deepen our connection with Hashem.
To mark Ocotber the 7th, Yavneh Boys hosted a Siyum Mishnayos on Seder Moed that had been divided up and learnt by students across YB. The ruach was truly uplifting. The event began with an introduction from Rabbi Wulwick, who explained why we had specifically chosen a siyum to mark October 7th—honouring the kedoshim by learning mishnayos ליעולי נשמתם. This was followed by the recital of a Kapital Tehillim, followed by the signing of Acheinu. Rabbi Rickman, our guest speaker, captivated the attentive audience with inspiring words of chizzuk on our outlook and mission as Yidden in times like these.
After the inspiring talk, students enjoyed a delicious meaty seuda. Two Year 7 students shared a beautiful dvar Torah about responsibility, which added to the meaningfulness of the event. The afternoon concluded with a kumzits and dancing led by Elisha Scheftz (Yr 13) on the guitar, along with fellow sixth formers and students from all classes. The energy was incredible. Wishing everyone a G'mar Chasimah Tovah. This morning students performed the Mitzvah of Hatarat Nedarim, the cancelling of sins and vows, with their Rebbes and teachers.
Each morning this week we have had over 50 boys attending selichot, this morning led by Rabbi Yitzi Joseph.
We were honoured to welcome guest speaker Rabbi Yehuda Leib Lewis, former Chief Rabbi of Amsterdam, who shared uplifting and thought-provoking insights with our students in the lead-up to Rosh Hashana.
Rabbi Lewis captivated the boys with a powerful lesson drawn from the symbolism of bee's honey. He explained how kosher honey, produced by non-kosher bees, teaches us a profound message: greatness can emerge from each of us, no matter how we may view ourselves. This reflection serves as a reminder that our potential is not defined by our past or perceived limitations. He also connected this idea to the Rosh Hashana Torah reading of Hagar and Yishmael, emphasizing that if Hashem could listen to their prayers - despite their seemingly undeserving nature - then surely He will hear ours as well. The boys were fully enraptured by Rabbi Lewis’ message, leaving them with a renewed sense of inspiration and purpose as they approach the Yamim Noraim. Wishing you and your families a Kesiva Vechasima Tovah |
YYHSNews from the Yavneh Yeshiva High School Archives
November 2024
|