A Historic Gathering At Beth Gavriel For Keren Olam HaTorah

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Forest Hills, NY – Rosh Chodesh Tammuz, June 16, 2026

On a night many are already describing as one of the most historic gatherings in the history of the Bukharian Jewish community in America, some of the greatest Torah leaders of the generation arrived at the Beth Gavriel Center in Forest Hills, bringing together hundreds of rabbanim, community leaders, yeshivah students, and supporters of Torah from across the spectrum of Jewish life.

A Magnificent Setting For An Extraordinary Cause

The newly constructed Beth Gavriel Center, now in its final stages of development, provided a majestic backdrop for the evening. Guests were welcomed by a red carpet leading into the stunning facility, which was illuminated by elegant lighting and complemented by lavish refreshments. Yet even more impressive than the physical surroundings was the atmosphere itself. A palpable sense of excitement, unity, and purpose filled the air from the moment attendees arrived.

A Rare Display Of Jewish Unity

Approximately 400 rabbanim and yeshivah students from Queens and surrounding communities packed the beautiful shul. It was a sight rarely witnessed in American Jewish life: Sephardic leaders seated alongside Ashkenazic leaders, Bukharian rabbanim together with Persian rabbanim, and Chassidic representatives sitting side by side with Lithuanian roshei yeshivah. The barriers that often separate communities seemed to disappear as all gathered under one roof for a common cause.

Welcoming The Torah Leadership

Greeting the hundreds of attendees at the entrance was Rabbi Emanuel Shimonov, mara d’asra of Beth Gavriel, together with Rabbi Tomer Zino of the Netz Minyan, Rabbi Israel Itzchakov of the Youth Minyan, and a dedicated team of volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure the evening’s success.

The Mission Of Keren Olam HaTorah

The gathering was part of an international effort on behalf of Keren Olam HaTorah, established to support thousands of bnei Torah, kollel families, and Torah institutions throughout Eretz Yisrael facing unprecedented financial challenges following significant government funding reductions.

The Queens Campaign Takes Shape

Among those spearheading the Queens effort was Rabbi Yaniv Meirov, CEO of Chazaq. Known for decades of work inspiring public-school students and reconnecting Jewish families with their heritage, Rabbi Meirov, together with prominent philanthropists, activists, and community leaders from across Queens, spent weeks coordinating a series of events and meetings to support this critical campaign.

Opening Remarks: A Call To Action

Serving as master of ceremonies was Rabbi Ilan Meirov, director of Chazaq and head of the Beth Gavriel Night Kollel.

“This gathering,” Rabbi Meirov explained, “is unlike most major Torah events. We are not here to celebrate the completion of Shas, the opening of a new institution, or another joyous accomplishment. We are gathered because the Torah world is facing a crisis. Families throughout Eretz Yisrael are under immense pressure, and we have a responsibility to stand beside our brothers and sisters. Our goal is to ensure that Torah institutions and families can continue to flourish with dignity.”

Rabbi Yitzchak Yisraeli: Strengthening The Heart Of The Nation

The first keynote address was delivered by Rabbi Yitzchak Yisraeli, Chief Rabbi of the Bukharian Community of the United States. Speaking with emotion and urgency, Rabbi Yisraeli reminded attendees that this effort transcends ordinary charity.

“The Torah world in Eretz Yisrael is the heart of the Jewish people,” Rabbi Yisraeli declared. “When the heart weakens, the entire body suffers. The protection, blessing, and spiritual vitality of our nation flow from Torah. Supporting these families is not merely helping another cause—it is safeguarding the future of klal Yisrael.”

A Historic Appearance By Harav Yaakov Hillel

The audience then rose in honor of Harav Yaakov Hillel. Despite ongoing health challenges, the revered mekubal traveled from Jerusalem to participate in the gathering. Harav Hillel spoke with confidence and unwavering faith, assuring attendees that Hashem continues to watch over His people while emphasizing that every Jew has the opportunity to become a partner in sustaining Torah through generosity and commitment.

Harav Yitzchak Ezrachi Inspires The Crowd

One of the evening’s most powerful moments came when Harav Yitzchak Ezrachi, Rosh Yeshivah of Mir Yerushalayim, addressed the audience. At 92 years old, the beloved Torah giant electrified the crowd with a passionate appeal for unity, responsibility, and dedication to the Torah world. The words of Harav Ezrachi resonated deeply as attendees listened intently to the call to strengthen their brethren in Eretz Yisrael.

Messages From Torah Leadership

The distinguished gathering was further honored by the presence of Harav Asher Weiss and Harav Yosef Chevroni, Rosh Yeshivah of Yeshivat Chevron.

Harav Weiss delivered a stirring message emphasizing that concern alone is not enough.

“When our greatest Torah leaders—many in their late eighties, nineties, and beyond—travel across continents for this cause,” Harav Weiss observed, “we too must be prepared to make sacrifices. Their dedication obligates us to act.”

Accepting The Yoke Of Heaven

As the evening drew toward its conclusion, the atmosphere reached an emotional crescendo. Harav Avraham Salim, the renowned Sephardic Rosh Yeshivah and distinguished disciple of the great Torah leaders of previous generations, led the assembled crowd in a moving acceptance of Ol Malchus Shamayim, creating one of the most memorable moments of the evening.

A Final Appeal

The program concluded with remarks from Mr. Reuven Wolf of Keren Olam HaTorah, who updated attendees on the campaign’s progress and urged every participant to become personally involved in supporting the Torah world during this critical time.

The Momentum Continues

The day, however, was far from over.

Immediately following the gathering at Beth Gavriel, the delegation of Torah leaders traveled to Yeshiva Chofetz Chaim in Kew Gardens Hills for a massive community-wide maamad. Thousands filled the building, with many standing in hallways and surrounding areas to hear the words of the Gedolim.

Harav Dov Landau’s Powerful Message

Despite not feeling well throughout much of the day, Harav Dov Landau attended the gathering and delivered a heartfelt appeal, calling upon the Jewish community to rally behind this urgent cause and strengthen the foundations of Torah throughout Eretz Yisrael.

An Extraordinary Achievement

By the conclusion of the day, after meetings with philanthropists, business leaders, rabbanim, and community activists from every segment of Queens Jewry, approximately $8 million had been raised toward the campaign.

More Than A Fundraising Campaign

Yet more significant than the dollars raised was the powerful display of unity that unfolded throughout the day.

What took place on Rosh Chodesh Tammuz at Beth Gavriel was far more than a fundraising event. It was a declaration that Torah remains the beating heart of the Jewish nation, and that when that heart is challenged, Jews of every background stand together to strengthen and protect it.