Dear Friends,

This past week has been one of the most devastating of my life. The loss, the destruction—it is all so painful. My heart aches alongside each of yours as we process the enormity of what has happened.

Yet, even in this darkness, I hold tightly to my faith in our collective strength. I know that together, we will come through this, supporting one another and rebuilding what has been lost.

We are grateful that our main building is still standing, though our classrooms, kitchen, and storage areas have sustained damage. We are committed to restoring and rebuilding, ensuring that Chabad Palisades remains a place of warmth, learning, and support for every member of our community.

We are profoundly thankful to the first responders who have worked tirelessly to protect and assist during this calamity. To all those who have opened their hearts and resources to welcome and support those affected by this devastation: your generosity and compassion are a source of hope and strength for us all.

This week’s Torah portion, Vayechi, offers a profound lesson in resilience and connection. The portion begins, “And Jacob lived,” even though it recounts the final years of Jacob’s life. Chassidus teaches that true life is not defined by physical circumstances but by the legacy of faith, goodness, and community we leave behind. Even in challenging times, the vitality of the Jewish people shines through when we remain united and committed to our shared mission.

In that spirit, we are coming together as a community this Shabbat in Beverly Hills to draw strength from one another and the beauty of Shabbat.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Chabad of Beverly Hills and Rabbi Yossi and Chami Cunin for so graciously hosting our community for Shabbat during this time.

Shabbat Schedule:
Tonight
4:30 PM – Mincha followed by Kabbalat Shabbat

Shabbat Day
8:50 AM – Shabbat Morning Class
9:30 AM – Shacharit

Location:
The Beverly Hills Hotel
Crystal Ballroom
9641 Sunset Blvd.
Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Let us unite in prayer, learning, and the spirit of Shabbat as we find comfort and strength in one another.

We also look forward to scheduling unity events in the near future, where our community can come together to support and uplift one another during these most challenging times.

To support our rebuilding efforts, please consider contributing to the Chabad Palisades Emergency Relief Fund. Your generosity will help us restore our facilities and continue serving our community.

Donate Here: Chabad Palisades Emergency Relief Fund

Thank you for your unwavering support and for being part of this incredible community. Together, we will rebuild and heal, carrying forward the eternal legacy of resilience and faith.

Shabbat Shalom, 
Rabbi Zushe Cunin