Last night, our Leil Shishi programme took on a special significance as we gathered in honour of Rav Klonymous Kalman Shapira, the revered Piacezna Rav. The evening was a meaningful blend of learning, inspiration, and celebration, commemorating the lasting impact of this great tzaddik and his Torah.

We were deeply honoured to receive a special video message from Rav Moshe Weinberger, the esteemed Rav of Aish Kodesh in New York. Rav Weinberger shared his personal connection to the Piacezna Rav’s teachings. He spoke movingly about how the sefer Chovas HaTalmidim spoke directly to his heart as a teenager, guiding and inspiring him as the son of Holocaust survivors. This sefer helped shape his spiritual journey and his eventual decision to establish a shul named Aish Kodesh, dedicated to perpetuating the Rav's legacy. His holy words and heartfelt Berachos uplifted everyone present.

Throughout the evening, we reflected on the heroic and unwavering strength of Rav Shapira during the harrowing days of the Warsaw Ghetto. We learned about how he gave chizuk to the Jews around him, instilling hope and faith in even the darkest moments. His Torah writings, preserved in milk churns and discovered after the war, continue to illuminate our lives today with their depth and passion.

Our Rebbes enriched the experience by sharing divrei Torah from the Piacezna Rav's sefarim, including Chovas HaTalmidim, Aish Kodesh, and Tzav V'Ziruz. They highlighted the Rav’s messages of personal growth, spiritual resilience, and the call to serve Hashem with vitality and sincerity, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.

​To conclude the evening, we celebrated with a delicious schwarma supper, creating an atmosphere of joy and appreciation. It was a beautiful way to honour the Piacezna Rav's legacy, combining Torah, inspiration, and the warmth of our school environment.

We look forward to many more evenings of meaningful growth and shared learning!

This week, Yavneh had the privilege of welcoming Rabbi Sammy Morhaim, a representative from Yeshivas Lev HaTorah in Israel. Following Shacharis, Rabbi Morhaim delivered an inspiring address to our students, highlighting the contrasting approaches of Avraham Avinu and Noach. He explained how Avraham actively reached out to others and spread the message of monotheism, in contrast to Noach, who adopted a more isolationist approach. Rabbi Morhaim’s message encouraged our boys to think about the importance of positively impacting the world around them.

​Later in the morning, Rabbi Morhaim met with students in Years 12 and 13, discussing the unique opportunities available at Yeshivas Lev HaTorah. This meeting offered valuable insights for those considering learning in Israel after graduation. We thank Rabbi Morhaim for his time and the meaningful inspiration he brought to our school.

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.

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

Rabbi Klyne shared the Yom Tov message of grabbing every mitzvah opportunity as soon as it comes and with gusto. 

​Don't let the opportunities of Yom Tov davening pass you by.