On the sixth night of Chanukah, American Friends of Bar-Ilan University (AFBIU) hosted an inspirational experience of Jewish history coming to life at Sotheby’s. Dozens of attendees marveled at the magnificent pieces on display at the exhibition, “The Halpern Judaica Collection: Tradition and Treasure, Part III.”
“The event was filled with rich Jewish history found in artifacts from all over the world,” said Ariel Sebag, AFBIU Northeast Circle member and co-chair of the Sotheby’s event. “It was both interesting and beautiful.”
Barbara J. Leibowitz, AFBIU’s other co-chair of the event, said, “This part of the Halpern collection featured silver, tapestries and books collected from wherever Jews have lived. All those who attended were enthralled by the provenance of these items—it was amazing.”
We are forever connected to our Jewish history. Our courageous chayalim serving on the front lines as real-life Maccabee heroes of our time include approximately 5,000 Bar-Ilan students. The university created a Student Lifeline Fund of $5 Million to help students get back on track, take care of their expenses and their families. At this stage, AFBIU has raised $3 Million.
“In these difficult times, many of us here are looking for ways to help support Israel,” said Linda Schonfeld, one of the event attendees. “To me, it was an enlightening Chanukah excursion, and a unique way to learn more about Bar-Ilan University and its current-day Maccabees.”
Mindy Gartner of the Five Towns added: “I have been fortunate to have attended the Halpern Judaica collection at Sotheby’s, hosted by the American Friends of Bar-Ilan University. During this crucial time, it is vital to cherish our heritage and to pass it on to our children. I feel very strongly that these beautiful and valuable artifacts link the past to the future. Thank you so much for inviting my husband and me to this event. We are so proud of our past and future.”
Help AFBIU finish the year strong as the charity plans for campus to reopen on December 31. Please consider a tax-deductible year-end donation towards the AFBIU Student Lifeline Campaign by calling 917-715-2415 or visit www.afbiu.org/lifeline. May the Bar-Ilan students be back in school soon to continue the beautiful Jewish legacy in Israel!
