Ever since October 7, everyone at MTA’s thoughts and tefillos have been channeled towards Israel, as they daven that the hostages should be released, that the chayalim should be safe and successful in their missions, and that all of Klal Yisrael can unite to help each other. At MTA, everyone is giving special thought to the alumni who are currently serving in the IDF, and to the former talmidim who are currently learning in yeshivos in Israel.

It is MTA’s tradition to send a couple administrators and rebbeim over yeshiva break to visit recent alumni learning in Israel. This year, with the current situation, it was decided that another trip was called for. Rabbi Konigsberg, MTA associate principal, along with Rabbi Stone, the director of Admissions went on a whirlwind trip to visit as many yeshivos as possible. During their 48 hour trip, they visited alumni in Hakotel, Netiv Aryeh, Aish Gesher, Torat Shraga, Mevaseret, Yishrei Lev, Sha’alvim, Reishit, Lev HaTorah, Toras Chaim, Kerem B’Yavneh and Gush. In addition to giving chizuk to the boys, Rabbi Konigsberg and Rabbi Stone had the opportunity to learn with them and schmooze, hearing about their experiences, especially post October 7.

A highlight of the very short trip was a “Grilling for IDF” BBQ that was made by MTA alumni for soldiers on an army base in Ofra. A siyum was made, a delicious BBQ prepared by the alumni was served, and the mood was celebratory, as everyone benefited from the special event. Rabbi Konigsberg summed it up perfectly, saying: ”It was a once in a lifetime experience. We went to give chizuk and succeeded beyond our dreams, yet somehow we still received more chizuk than we provided.”

It is the hope of everyone at MTA that the chesed and achdus that has become more of the norm both here and in Eretz Yisrael continues, and that Klal Yisrael will be zoche to see the geula shleima speedily in our days.