(Courtesy of Ohr HaTorah) In a heartwarming conclusion to their first semester of extra learning on Sunday mornings, over 15 second- and third-grade boys from Congregation Ohr HaTorah of Bergenfield were treated to a special trip to Yeshiva University. The event, which took place on a recent Sunday, was a perfect blend of spiritual inspiration, meaningful Torah learning and sports excitement, leaving the boys with memories to cherish for years to come.
The day began with a delicious pizza lunch, followed by an inspiring shiur delivered by Rav Yitzchak Cohen. After a meaningful introduction by Rabbi Zvi Sobolofsky, Rav Cohen, a respected figure in YU, spoke to the boys about the importance of saying 100 brachot a day, teaching them how this practice can elevate every aspect of their lives and create a deeper connection to Hashem. He also encouraged the boys to view their time in school as an extraordinary opportunity to connect to Hashem through every action they take.
To make the experience particularly meaningful, each boy had the special privilege of receiving an individual bracha from Rav Cohen, adding a personal touch that made the day even more unforgettable.
After the shiur, the boys were treated to an exciting Yeshiva University Maccabees basketball game. The YU Maccabees, led by an incredible performance from star guard Zevi Samet, scored an impressive 112 points, defeating their rivals, the University of Mount Saint Vincent, 112-75. The boys cheered enthusiastically, enjoying the fast-paced action and the thrill of being part of the YU athletics atmosphere.
Following the game, Samet, who was a standout player in the match, shared inspiring words with the boys. He spoke about the importance of hard work, perseverance and using one’s talents for the greater good, encouraging the boys to apply these lessons in both their Torah learning and everyday lives.
The trip was an enormous success, blending learning, inspiration and fun in a way that was both meaningful and enjoyable for the boys. Congregation Ohr Hatorah’s Sunday morning learning initiative, led by Rabbi Moshe Dechter of RYNJ, has been a fantastic success this semester, helping to instill a love for Torah in the young boys of Bergenfield.
Looking ahead, the congregation is eager to continue offering exciting and enriching opportunities for the children, with plans for another successful semester filled with learning, inspiration and community connection.
For more information on Congregation Ohr HaTorah’s youth programming and upcoming events, please visit https://www.ohrhatorah.com.
