Communal unity was on full display just before 10 p.m. on Wednesday evening, June 14, at the Beth Gavriel Bukharian Jewish Congregation and Community Center when history was made and a whopping $9,338,530 was raised as construction on the new citadel of Torah in Forest Hills enters its final stages. Reaching 116% of the fundraiser original $8 million goal, kudos was extended by Rav Emanuel Shimonov, mara d’atra; Rav Ilan Meirov, mara d’atra of the youth minyan; and Rav Tomer Zion, mara d’atra of the netz minyan, to the Alishaev and Koptiev families for matching every donation raised.
“This is just the beginning,” said synagogue president Ilya Koptiev. “It is historic for the Bukharan Jewish community.” Koptiev sits on the presidium with vice president Simcha Alishaev. His son David spoke beside Emanuel Elishaev, who worked with Simcha Musheyev on the minute details of the campaign. “This is all because of the community’s help and Hashem making nisim (miracles),” expressed Emanuel, who thanked his father for giving him this opportunity. “My father and his brothers, along with the Koptiev family, are behind this great feat.” Emanuel spoke on behalf of his siblings, Shloimy, David, Mickey, Leora, and thanked his mother and wife Julie for their support and encouragement.”
“Shehecheyanu v’kiy’manu v’higiyanu lazman hazeh,” began Rabbi Shimonov as he spoke to the expensive Russian contingent of the synagogue, explaining the beauty and joy of the historic milestone accomplished that evening. Rabbi Meirov continued the momentum, “We see today what the power of achdut and giving is really all about. Every single one of you worked very hard - from the rabbis to all the community members and board members.” Rabbi Meirov encouraged the group speaking of the lectures that will soon fill the halls of the new synagogue.
“We went above our nature, and Hashem went above nature for us,” said Rabbi Zino of the funds raised, as he energized the crowd with a joyous rendition of siman tov u’mazal tov. “We are teaching the whole community what it means to give tzdakah, as the Rambam says, the geulah only comes through giving charity. This is one step closer to bringing the final redemption for ourselves, for the community, and for the whole entire world.”
Appreciation is also given to Rabbi Yaniv Meirov for his nonstop momentum behind the scenes, and to Chaim Levi Cohen of the Charidy fundraising platform for his presence and encouragement. Donations are still being accepted at www.buildingbg.org.
By Shabsie Saphirstein
