4 Chabad rabbis, plus a visiting cantor, will be leading a grand Simchat Torah celebration, dubbed "the best in town."
Preparations are underway for the annual Simchat Torah celebration at Congregation Young Israel, a climax of the Jewish month of Tishrei.
The Shemini Atzeret/Simchat Torah holiday --from Sunday night to Tuesday night-- is characterized by utterly unbridled joy, which surpasses even the joy of Sukkot.
In addition to holiday services, a large celebration is planned for Monday, October 8, at 6:45 PM. Marking the conclusion – and restart – of the annual Torah-reading cycle, this event traditionally brings together Jews from all ages and backgrounds.
Described by past participantsas "the best celebration in Tucson," Rabbi Yossie Shemtov will be leading the dancing and hakafot for the 29th year in true Chabad chassidic spirit.
"Bring your children or the child within you and have a Torah experience you will remember," Rabbi Shemtov said and noted that flags will be distributed to children.
Joining him will be Associate Rabbi Yehuda Ceitlin of Chabad of Tucson, Rabbi Yossi Winner of Chabad at the U of A and Rabbi Ephraim Zimmerman of Chabad of Oro Valley.
A special guest will be Australian-born Rabbi Shimi Ash, a talented cantor who attended the Belz School of Jewish Music in New York City.
Ash, recently appointed to direct the Chabad Jewish Center of Gilbert, AZ, will be leading with song and prayer as the opportunity is given to dance with the Torah.
A large holiday meal will be served, donated by the Cutler family in loving memory of Felicia (Yael Feiga bas Chaim), of blessed memory. L'Chaim will be served by a licensed bartender.
The event is open to all. No RSVP or membership needed.