(Courtesy of OU) With profound sadness, the Orthodox Union joins the entire Jewish community in mourning the passing of HaRav Aharon Schechter, zt”l, the rosh hayeshiva of Yeshiva and Mesivta Rabbeinu Chaim Berlin.

HaRav Schechter was chosen by his rebbe, Harav Yitzchak Hutner, zt”l, as his successor, and served to perpetuate Rav Hutner’s uniquely thoughtful, creative and vibrant approach to every aspect of Torah learning and to educating students. With the striking and ever-present twinkle in his eyes and the warmth of his smile, he embodied the joy of a life of Torah and ahavat Yisrael in a way that had a profound effect on those whom he encountered even briefly.

The rosh yeshiva’s life and persona will continue to inspire all of us to find joy in the discovery of profound meaning in the Torah, and to demonstrate appreciation and love for each other.

Yehi zichro baruch. May his memory be a blessing.