“Dear ShabbatUK Team and to all this may concern, I would like to Thank You all for an amazing project and even more amazing implementation! [Interestingly, the last letters of ‘ThanK YoU’ can also stand for the UK in ShabbatUK]. I would also like to update you re the ShabbatUK celebrations at the New Synagogue, 9 Amhurst Park, Stamford Hill. As the large ShabbatUK banner was proudly displayed in our Shule, we enjoyed a special Kiddush so meticulously prepared by the capable Jonathan Yeshooa. All enjoyed a special visit from the ‘Traveling Chassidim’ Choir with Chazzan Moshe Meislek, under the auspices of Rabbi Menasche Scharf who kindly graces us with his continued support. The enthusiasm and ecstasy was tangible within the prayers and singing. Also, my Droshoh focused, among other insights in the Parshah, on the dictum [Talmud, Taanit 10a] that prayers for rain in Israel for the whole nation waited (thereby overlooking the vast majority of the people’s own needs) and only began until after the very last Jew reached their home by the Euphrates river after the Sukkot pilgrimage on the 7th of MarCheshvon (Erev Shabbat this year) emphasising the display of Unity [Shabbat United Kingdom, also Shabbat being the prime opportunity to Unitedly serve (the Kingdom of) G-d]. All in all, it was a very uplifting experience for one and all. Wishing you continued blessings and success, Rabbi Yisroel Yosef Cyprys”
