Moscow’s Torah Center Launches New Year with Inspiring Fair and Concert
In a festive and uplifting event marking the start of the Jewish New Year, more than 300 members of Moscow’s Jewish community gathered for an evening that combined immersive learning opportunities with stirring musical performances. The event was led by Rabbi Mendy Wilansky, Director of the Torah Center, and featured the participation of Russia’s Chief Rabbi Berel Lazar.
The evening opened with a dynamic educational fair, where participants explored the wide array of classes, lectures, programs, and structured courses that the Moscow Torah Center will offer during the coming year. The curriculum includes varied topics at both beginner and advanced levels. Designed to be accessible, engaging, and of the highest quality, the programs aim to welcome Jews from all backgrounds into an environment of growth and connection. Attendees browsed various booths, asked questions, and registered for the offerings that most appealed to them.
A special highlight of the evening was a certificate ceremony for participants who completed an advanced halacha (Jewish law) course taught by Rabbi Dan Lokshen. In a respectful and celebratory atmosphere, Chief Rabbi Berel Lazar personally presented the certificates, recognizing the participants’ dedication to deepening their Jewish knowledge.
The second half of the event featured a festive concert with performances by international artists: Canadian-Israeli cantor David Caytak, Argentinian-Israeli cantor Rabbi Avraham Yitzchak Feintuch, and British-Israeli violinist Daniel Aviel. Accompanied by a symphonic choir and enhanced with multimedia visuals, the program included stirring cantorial selections and traditional High Holiday melodies, evoking the spirit of the season and creating a deeply emotional experience for the audience.
In his address, Chief Rabbi Lazar encouraged attendees to make meaningful spiritual commitments as Yom Kippur approaches. Rabbi Wilansky spoke about the powerful message of the Kol Nidrei prayer and invited everyone to take part in the Torah Center’s many learning opportunities throughout the year.
