Sefer Torah Written in Memory of Yudi Dukes OBM
The Dukes family is inviting the community to join them in the humbling experience of completing and welcoming a Torah scroll that has been written in memory of Rabbi Yudi Dikes, of blessed memory.
”This tremendous tribute is equally awe-inspiring and heartbreaking for me,” Yudi’s wife Sarah wrote on Social media. “It is difficult to comprehend that we will be celebrating this holy event FOR Yudi instead of WITH Yudi, when Torah is what gave Yudi life. Yudi read it weekly. Learned it daily. Taught it naturally. Yudi loved Torah. He lived it. “
Just as the Torah is eternal, Yudi’s essence and all that he inspired will forever continue. And having a Sefer Torah written in honor of Yudi is one of the greatest privileges and a fitting tribute to a man who devoted his life to Torah.
Bringing this Torah from an idea to actuality was made possible by Asher Ashrei Dukes, who orchestrated the entire project. This everlasting gift is an immense honor to his brother and will serve as a comfort to Yudi’s family, friends, and especially to his children. Our children.
The first letters of this special Sefer Torah were written by a scribe at Yudi’s son Baruch’s Bar-Mitzvah last year- a simcha that took place just a few weeks after Yudi passed away. Baruch helped write the very first letter, beis, and his siblings, family, and friends followed suit.
The completion of the Torah will be celebrated this Sunday, 15th of Elul, September 11th.
”I have so much gratitude to each one of you who contributed towards the writing and completion of this beautiful Sefer Torah for Yudi, and in participating, fulfilled the very special commandment of writing a Torah scroll. May G-d shower blessings upon you and your families ad bli dai,” said Sarah Dukes.
There are still sponsorship opportunities available to help cover the costs of the event itself, and to adorn this special Sefer Torah with the ornaments of a crown and yad. If you would like to participate in any way, please email Asher at claimyourportion@gmail.com.
