(Courtesy of Virtual Halacha Program) In a testament to the power of dedication and the pursuit of knowledge, 14 working professionals from diverse fields have achieved a transformative milestone in their Torah journey. These individuals, fully engaged in their careers, embarked on a path of Torah study through the Virtual Halacha Program (VHP), culminating in a joyous Chag HaSemicha event celebrating the completion of the Orach Chaim section of the program. This accomplishment highlights the seamless integration of their professional lives with their spiritual aspirations.
Launched over four years ago under the guidance of HaRav Avigdor Nebenzahl, Chief Rabbi of Jerusalem’s Old City, with classes taught by his disciple HaRav Ami Merzel, the Virtual Halacha Program has become a sought-after platform for working professionals seeking to deepen their Torah knowledge.
The Chag HaSemicha events which took place in two locations—Yeshivat Netiv Aryeh in Jerusalem and Shaare Emunah in Cedarhurst—marked the completion of rigorous study of Hilchot Shabbat, Hilchot Berachot and Hilchot Moadim.
Among the accomplished participants who were recognized during these events was Rabbi David Blumenthal and Rabbi Aryeh Mayer, both of Clifton, New Jersey. Blumenthal works for Lion Brand Yarn Company, his family business, and is a division coordinator for Hatzolah of Passaic-Clifton, as well as being a paramedic. Mayer works in finance in the commodities space and is the son of Martin Mayer from Menagerie in Englewood. Both Blumenthal and Mayer, who plan on continuing with the VHP, are integral parts of the program and have been since they started.
During the Israel event, Rabbi Dr. Dov Rosen, a respected pediatrician in Beit Shemesh, Israel, shared his sentiments. He passionately said: “This program is gold; the VHP brought the Beis Medrash into the homes of many Jews.” This feedback effectively underscores the program’s impact in making Torah study accessible to a wide audience.
With the echoes of celebration still resounding, the Virtual Halacha Program is poised for new horizons. A new four-year cycle of Orach Chaim alongside a four-year study of certain Yoreh Deah topics including Hilchot Basar B’Chalav, Tevillat Keilim, Hechsher Keilim, Niddah, and Hilchot Yichud is set to commence on Rosh Chodesh Cheshvan (October 15). To those eager to deepen their understanding of Halacha B’Iyun who would like to join this inspiring journey, the Virtual Halacha Program invites you to explore further details at vhalacha.com.
