Rabbis' European Tour for Torah Fund Features Emotional Moments

A recent European tour by leading rabbis, aimed at raising funds for the 'World of Torah Fund' which supports yeshivas and kollels in Israel, concluded this week. The journey was marked by large gatherings and significant participation from local Orthodox communities. Beyond the major events, several intimate and moving moments occurred throughout the trip.

In London, thousands of seminary students, who themselves contributed to fundraising efforts, met with the rabbis, led by Rosh Yeshiva G. D. Landau. The event, held with full separation and partitions, featured rabbis delivering words of encouragement and blessings for the students' dedication and for their future marriages. Another memorable occasion in London took place at the home of magnate Rabbi Israel Peles, where he initiated a song about the love of Torah. Rosh Yeshiva G. Ch. M. Uzbaind joined in, and Rosh Yeshiva G. M. H. Hirsh, present at the gathering, expressed deep emotion and inquired about the song's origins.

In Paris, two notable instances involved Mashgiach G. D. Segal. In one, a wealthy donor approached Segal and quietly pledged one million dollars, highlighting the generosity of French benefactors. In another meeting, Rabbi Reuven Wolf, chairman of the World of Torah Fund, served as a French translator for Segal's remarks. Segal humorously commented on Wolf's translation skills, suggesting divine preparation for the task.

Back in London, Hasidic students traveled to meet Rosh Yeshiva G. D. Cohen, who engaged them in an extended Torah discussion. As the tour progressed from London to Paris, several prominent rabbis, including G. Y. Hillel, Rabbi Shimon Galai, and G. D. Cohen, traveled by train. Rabbi G. Y. Hillel, despite health challenges, made the journey and continued his studies during the trip. Upon arrival in Paris, the rabbis received a special escort, and Rabbi Shimon Galai personally thanked the security personnel for their efforts.