A GLIMMER OF LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS, HOPE & LEARNING

Religious classes underway at Ma'oz Tzur.

(July 18, 2024) Keeping in with the finest tradition, residents of Ma'oz Tzur have taken it upon themselves to study. Led by Shimon Thomsong, religious teacher designate, the pursuit of learning Judaism is in full swing. Even though it is a small community by any standards (the headcount is about 60, including adults and children) the enthusiasm is full and committed. Despite the conflict which has lasted over a year, there is a palpable sign of optimism. The community was established last Succot when the 200 acre property was made available by the BMC's chairman, Lalam Hangshing. It mainly comprises of displaced people but it has been made a policy to include anyone or family that needs it. They are taking a slow but a steady steps toward self-sustenance.

The iron closet that serves as the 'library'.

A synagogue has been built but still requires peripheral items like electrical fittings, furniture, Bima and Aaron HaKodesh, to name a few. There are plans to give education a priority with the synagogue to be used as a classroom in the future, in addition to its designated role. A small library, however small it may be, has been prepared with a few books donated by Degel Menashe. All contained within an iron closet complete with locks. In addition, prayer books, several tzitzit , couple of tefellinim all donated by Rabbi Shimon Gangte of Kiryat Arba. There are other books that will soon make their way to the library.

Classes are conducted in the evenings along with the evening prayers after a hard day's work in the fields. They are held in one of the homes, each family taking turn to host. Electricity supply is sporadic, sometimes the residents have to, literally, burn the midnight oil. There are plans to acquire some solar lamps, with battery inverters, at least for the synagogue. Degel Menashe is trying to raise funds for the many facilities that still need to be installed to make life more bearable for the residents. Degel Menashe welcomes all its readers to participate in building this community and making it strong. It is a worthy mitzvah!