LIVE at 12:15PM: Annual Lag B’Omer Rally Celebrating 50 Years of the 12 Pesukim
The Crown Heights community is once again gearing up for the beloved annual Lag BaOmer rally, a highlight on the Jewish calendar that brings together thousands of children in a vibrant display of Yiddishkeit, unity, and simcha.
Organized by the National Committee for the Furtherance of Jewish Education, this year’s rally marks a special milestone: 50 years since the Rebbe introduced the 12 Pesukim campaign, encouraging children to memorize and live with foundational Torah verses and teachings.
For nearly 80 years, NCFJE has hosted Lag B’Omer celebrations for children, continuing a cherished tradition deeply rooted in Chassidic life. As recorded in Hayom Yom, the Rebbe emphasized that Lag B’Omer was always an especially joyous day among Chassidim—so much so that they would anticipate it all year. On this day, children would go out into the fields, where great spiritual blessings and even miracles were said to occur.
At the heart of Lag B’Omer is the legacy of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, whose yahrtzeit is marked on this day. The Gemara teaches, “כדאי ר’ שמעון לסמוך עליו בשעת הדחק”—that Rabbi Shimon is worthy to be relied upon in times of need—highlighting the powerful merit associated with the day.
The Rebbe strongly encouraged the organization of children’s rallies and parades in honor of Lag B’Omer. In a letter to Rabbi J.J. Hecht a”h, the Rebbe underscored the immense spiritual merit involved, writing that “וזכות הרשב”י ה”ה גדולה במאוד מאוד”—the merit of Rashbi is exceedingly great.
This year’s rally will take place on Tuesday, May 5th, and will be broadcast live for children and families around the world. The program promises an inspiring mix of Torah, song, and excitement, all centered around strengthening Jewish pride and connection.
Community members are encouraged to take part not only by attending or tuning in, but also by contributing to the expenses of the rally. Supporting this event is considered a tremendous zchus, helping ensure that thousands of Jewish children experience the joy and inspiration of Lag B’Omer in the spirit envisioned by the Rebbe.
As Crown Heights prepares for this uplifting day, the message is clear: Lag B’Omer is not just a celebration—it’s an opportunity to invest in the next generation, drawing down brachos through the unity and purity of Jewish children.
