Chabad of Wheeling

What is Torah's timeless strategy for minimizing loss of life in conflict, even the lives of our enemies?
Can we shatter the myth of being occupiers once and for all?
Can Israel maintain a strong relationship with the U.S. while preserving its security?
Join us for a two-part multimedia course:
"ENDURING PEACE"
Explore the Rebbe's vision for lasting peace in Israel - drawn from Torah's timeless wisdom.
Dates: Sundays, November 17th and 24th
Time: 9:45 AM - Breakfast, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM - Presentation
Location: Provided upon RSVP
The course is free and open to the public. Sponsorship opportunities available.
Over the course of many years, the Rebbe promoted Torah's vision for the safety and security of the Jewish people. It wasn't left-leaning, and it wasn't right-leaning. He didn't support any specific political group. Instead, it was a vision based on timeless Jewish ideas, while simultaneously anchored in the realities of the Middle East.
It was realistic, compelling, and in line with Jewish values.
The Jewish Learning Institute recently created a course on the Rebbe's ideas. It features videos of his personal interactions and interviews with key figures. I'm very excited to share it.
I hope you can join me for this journey.
Rabbi Mendel Shmotkin
wheelingchabad.com/enduringpeace

Full house at Jewish Young Professional Sukkah Social! The energy, the connection, most gorgeous weather- for this special evening✨✨✨
What a privilege to meet you all!

Seeing a large, vibrant Sukkah in center of town has already warmed the hearts of many morning joggers and passerby😀 A flow of people have popped in throughout the day for the Lulav shake & a quick bite in the Sukkah!
Our event today was a beautiful display of community, togetherness and joy!! Thank you for being a wonderful part of this!
We are very grateful to Wheeling Town Center for making this all possible! From a dream to a reality!

Someone once said:

"Praying on Rosh Hashanah and fasting on Yom Kippur without the joy of Sukkot and Simchat Torah is like eating a bagel without cream cheese: you only get part of the story."

Since Yom Kippur was two days ago, I must confess that occasionally I eat a bagel without cream cheese.

However, having cream cheese is much better—not to mention the lox!

When we hear the shofar and fast on Yom Kippur, we experience the solemn part of Judaism.

But that is only part of the story.

Because Judaism is filled with joy! In fact, Judaism teaches us that every moment of our day should be filled with joy.

So in that spirit, please accept this as your personal invitation to attend our Sukkot family event at Town Center. We will eat, socialize, and shake the Lulav and Etrog.

We will be celebrating Sukkot together at 12 o'clock on Sunday, October 20th, with a buffet lunch, joyous music, activities for the children, and that warm Chabad feeling of togetherness.

We would love to see you!

Please let us know if you are coming so we can save you a spot 😊😊😊
wheelingchabad.com/sukkottowncenter

Wishing you a happy Sukkot!

Rabbi Mendel and Mushky Shmotkin

P.S. If you cannot make it but would like to shake the Lulav and Etrog or have a quick bite in the sukkah, please let us know.

P.P.S. If you would like to purchase your own Lulav and Etrog set so you can do it the right way and make the blessing for the entire week of Sukkot, let us know.

Let's celebrate Sukkot together as a community! Stop by for one minute or one hour! Get to shake the Lulav and Etrog and enjoy a scrumptious lunch buffet! Fun for all ages!

A special thanks to the Wheeling Town Center!

Wheeling Town Center Marcy Skora Manning Alisa Gordon Bay

One Year Stronger - A Pre-Yom Kippur Webcast Join us as we reflect and gain inspiration from each other to make a real difference. This webcast will feature messages from those directly impacted by the attack and the war and shows how the Jewish nation is one year stronger.

Jewish Young Professionals! This is for you! Not to be missed SUKKAH SOCIAL! RSVP TODAY!
wheelingchabad.com/ypsukkot

Today is October 7.

It's been a year. An entire year.

On that day one year ago, our world changed forever. We witnessed the unthinkable—the brutal loss of innocent lives, families torn apart, and a pain that runs so deep it feels almost impossible to express in words. Our brothers and sisters were taken from us in the cruelest way, and as we sit in this darkness, we are left with questions that have no answers. We ask why. We ask how. And often we feel we receive only silence, holding onto our belief and undying faith in the one above to keep us going.

But amid this silence, something remarkable is emerging. The heart of our people, the Jewish nation, is showing its true beauty. In the face of horror, we are witnessing acts of kindness and strength that speak to the very core of who we are. We see communities coming together like never before, strangers embracing each other with love and support. We see the faces of those who refuse to let despair win, those who rise with hope, compassion, and a fierce commitment to one another.

In these moments, when words fail, our actions speak. Our unity, our resilience, our unwavering faith shine through. Though we may not understand why this tragedy has befallen us, though we may never be able to comprehend the depth of this pain, we do know one thing: the Jewish people endure. We are a nation that survives, that holds onto each other tightly in the darkest of times, that finds light even in the deepest night.

And so, we sit with the pain, with the unanswerable questions, with the brokenness that comes from such loss. But we also sit with the knowledge that from this very brokenness, beauty arises. The beauty of a people who refuse to give up on love, who continue to build and strengthen each other, who, even in sorrow, find the capacity to bring hope.

Let's as a nation- in merit of those we have lost , and for those who are still being held captive- continue to share this beauty. Let us hold each other through this time, let us lift each other up, and let us be reminded of the profound truth: Am Yisrael Chai. The Jewish people live—stronger, more united, and more beautiful than ever before.

May we merit to see the return of our hostages and may Hashem protect every one of our brothers and sisters. Please do a Mitzvah today to make this happen even sooner!

Last week, as the UN General Assembly meets in Manhattan, some world leaders were visiting a quiet cemetery on the edge New York City, just minutes from JFK Airport, to pray and reflect.

Mrs. Sarah Netanyahu was writing a note and praying for her fellow Israelis. The President of Argentina was here for his fourth visit, and the Prime Minister of Albania blended in with the crowd unnoticed.

They joined other leaders and politicians who came from various backgrounds and political views. They came to pray, reflect, and be heard.

In recent years, Israeli opposition leader Benny Gantz and New York Governor Kathy Hochul have also visited. This cemetery is the resting place of Rabbi Menachem Schneerson OBM, known as the Rebbe.

Thousands of people from all over the world visit this site ahead of the Jewish New Year to seek blessings for a better year and to be empowered to be their best selves.

Praying at the gravesites of the righteous is an ancient Jewish tradition. The Talmud recounts that when Moses sent 12 spies to explore the land, one of them, Caleb, prayed at the cave where the patriarchs and matriarchs are buried. The belief is that the soul of a righteous person lives on, so it’s customary to leave notes at their gravesites, just as one would send a note to them while they were alive.

Those unable to visit in person can send notes via email or fax to be placed at the gravesite.

You can send your note, including your Jewish name and your mother’s name to me and I will include it in my note today.
[email protected]

or directly to:
- Mail: The Ohel, 226-20 Francis Lewis Blvd, Cambria Heights, NY 11411
- Fax: 718.723.4444
- Email: [email protected]
- Online: ohelchabad.org
(If sent directly it will be placed without being read and remain confidential)

Wishing you a sweet new year,
Rabbi Mendel Shmotkin

Join us at the Heritage Park on the first day Rosh Hashana, Oct. 3, to hear the Shofar blast!
For all ages!

Shalom Friends,
It’s been a hard year. I’m sure you’ve felt it too.

We’ve been shocked, again and again, by the blatant Jew hatred that’s prevalent ... and tolerated ... around the world. And even right here at home.

On top of that, so many Jewish people feel lonely. They’re having to deal with this reality and these emotions alone. That gives them a sense of despair, a feeling that there’s nothing they can do about it. For Jewish parents (and grandparents) there’s the struggle with how to communicate and connect with young people about being Jewish in this environment.

That's why I'm writing to you today: You can reach out to Jews in our community. You can help make their year sweeter and more full of light.

Many Jews in our area would love a seat at the table – especially during the High Holidays, but they have nowhere to go. Some feel like they don't belong. Others are embarrassed by their lack of knowledge in Judaism.

I know some who don’t feel comfortable or safe talking about their feelings about Israel, wearing a Jewish symbol, or otherwise publicly identifying as Jewish.

They need to be able to come together and deal with their fears. They need to know they are loved and accepted. They need to know what they can do in the face of hate and confusion!

We need to invite them in for the Holidays! Your High Holidays donation this year will help make that possible.

Help keep Jewish tradition alive and strong in our community by donating at our secure online giving page:
wheelingchabad.com/hhdonation

Your kind donation will spread Jewish pride, courage, education, and community. You’ll help people realize, through learning Torah and delving into our rich tradition, that each Jewish holiday addresses the miracle of Jewish continuity.

You’ll help them be uplifted and strengthened. Each one of them a link in the golden chain of Judaism. Inspired by the giants who came before us, we too shall forge ahead!

DONATE NOW
wheelingchabad.com/hhdonation
HIGH HOLIDAYS CAMPAIGN

Do you remember where you were last October 7 when you heard the news?

I was in New York, spending Simchas Torah near the Rebbe’s Resting Place, along with hundreds of other Jews from all over the world—at least half of them Israelis. As the news began to reach us, from local police and passersby, worry, fear, and sadness gripped us all.

After a few hours, Israeli soldiers, who had been called up for emergency duty, began stopping by this holy place on their way to the airport. They came to quickly pray before heading off to protect their fellow Jews and defend our country- knowing that as Jews, their strength would come from prayers said at this holy site.

Before the Holiday, we had been scheduled to spread out to different synagogues, to bring added joyful energy to the small synagogues in the area. But with these tragic developments, how could we possibly go to other synagogues to increase joy when such horror was unfolding? How could we celebrate, knowing the worst attack since the Holocaust was happening to our Jewish brothers and sisters?

And yet, we knew what we had to do. We couldn’t let these terrorists take our Holiday away from us.

When I approached the podium as the guest speaker in that Shul, I spoke of the Rebbe’s message in similar moments of darkness: that joy is the best response, and that standing together as Jews, part of one collective Jewish body, is more vital now than ever.

We then went on to dance—with extra energy and brotherhood—knowing that this is the only way.

That’s what we Jews do in hard times.

We embrace our traditions, our heritage. We reach out to Hashem, together. As Jews.

That’s what I’m asking you to help make possible.

You can provide a home for Jewish neighbors, a place where they can gather and celebrate. To find comfort and strength. Where they can experience the comforting aroma of brisket and challah. The sweetness of homemade apple and honey dishes. Participate in the prayers and songs.

Jewish joy. Torah wisdom. Traditions that have sustained us through centuries. Genuine Jewish hugs!

These things tell our community they are not alone, they belong, they are cherished.

Your support will ensure that Chabad of Wheeling continues to shine brightly, providing a special space where journeys unfold, and hearts are uplifted.

Please, give as you can. As much as you can. No amount is too small (or too big) to make a difference.
wheelingchabad.com/hhdonation
When our community is strong, we all benefit!

This is the Jewish experience that you can help make happen when donating to our High Holidays Campaign now. It’s your opportunity to keep Jewish tradition alive and strong in our community.
wheelingchabad.com/hhdonation

When I think about the thousands of years that have brought the Jewish people so many blessings, all these years, I thank G-d for the miracle that we’ve survived and thrived.

And I want you to remember this: G-d accomplishes this miracle through you. Your charitable giving is a mitzvah that transforms the entire world!

Please think about it.

DONATE NOW
wheelingchabad.com/hhdonation

We will be creating a display for the High Holidays called The Caring Wall, where every person who gives will be listed, including those who choose to be anonymous.

Our community will see how many wonderful people care about them, their future, and their Jewish life here in Wheeling. This display will be a wonderful reminder of our unity, care, and love for each other.

Any amount you can give will help spread Jewish connection, Jewish joy, and Jewish wisdom on our campus. You know what a big difference that makes.

Let me tell you something I’ll never forget that I heard about from the October 7 attack...

Sderot, just a mile from the border with Gaza, is not stranger to violence. For years, rocket attacks have been nearly a daily thing. It’s just the way life is. Kids just shelter, then get on with things.

Until October 7. That’s when the terrorists streamed in, guns blazing.

While the terrorists roamed the streets, looking for victims, many of the Jews there danced. Quietly in their darkened homes. Terrified of being found. They tiptoed in place. In their safe room. With their children and loved ones. It was a dance of defiance. Hope. Jewish connection that transcends everything.

Tragically, many of them were found and killed. Or kidnapped. But many more survived.

That’s what we do. We stand together and celebrate our Jewish identity. We eat. We sing. We dance. Even at the worst of times.

Our community is no Sderot. But we still need the light of Yiddishkeit to give us strength...

A teenager commits to putting on Tefillin and gets a pair of his own... A retiree starts taking more interest in his Judaism

When people see they are not alone, they are empowered to engage in their Judaism with enthusiasm.

Your High Holidays donation today will help make that all possible!
wheelingchabad.com/hhdonation

With profound appreciation and warmest wishes,
Rabbi Mendel Shmotkin



P.S. Because I know you understand the importance of Jewish community. I'm asking you to donate to support our High Holidays activities this year ... for you and for all who come, seeking connection and wisdom. Thank you, and may your New Year be sweet!

What an incredible evening! - Cooking and chatting together with so many Jewish women in Wheeling, as we prepare for Rosh Hashana! May it be a Shana Tova Umituka😊

Make the High Holidays in Wheeling Unforgettable ✨
Join our High Holiday appeal! The High Holidays are a time when many people traditionally donate to Jewish causes.

Your support can help us create an unforgettable experience for everyone in our community. Join our High Holiday appeal today to bring joy and warmth to your Jewish neighbors in Wheeling.

Donate to make a difference
wheelingchabad.com/hhdonation

Thank you for your generosity and kindness. Together, let's make these Holidays truly special.

High Holiday Donation — Chabad Jewish Center of Wheeling community shabbat dinner Mommy and me Family Sukkah Event women's cooking demo shofar in the park Young professional sukkot Partnership Support Our Jewish Community during the High Holidays!It’s been a difficult year for Jewish communities all over the world. People in our own community face chall...

As we approach Rosh Hashanah, We would like to personally invite you to join us for a meaningful Shabbat Dinner hosted by Chabad of Wheeling at the conclusion of the holiday. Whether you've never been at an event before or it's been a while, we would be honored to welcome you.

Chabad is a place where everyone is greeted with open arms, and we’d love for you to experience the warmth and connection of our community.

Event Details:

📅 Date: Friday, October 4
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Provided upon RSVP

This Shabbat Dinner is particularly significant as we come together to culminate the Rosh Hashanah holiday. This year marks a poignant milestone—a year since the events of October 7th and the challenges that have followed. Together, we will honor the memory of our brothers and sisters in Israel whom we've lost on and since Simchat Torah, and we will pray for those still in captivity. In times like these, it’s essential that we stand together, drawing strength, inspiration, and encouragement from one another.

Plus, it’s your last chance to hear the Shofar blowing for this year!

To join us, please RSVP. wheelingchabad.com/shabbatdinner

Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or if there’s anything we can do to make your experience more comfortable.

In addition, on the first day of Rosh Hashanah, we will be hosting a quick and fun Shofar at the Park and Story Time. For more details and to RSVP wheelingchabad.com/shofar

Wishing you peace and blessings,
Rabbi Mendel and Mushky Shmotkin

P.S. This Sunday, September 22nd, is the Women's Pre-High Holiday Cooking Demo. Please click here to RSVP wheelingchabad.com/cookingdemo

WHAT A POWERFUL WAY TO START THE WEEK! 8 men gathered today to put on Tefilin in honor of our dear brothers and sisters in Israel🌟. Of course they enjoyed a good chat over coffee, lox 'n bagels! Thank you to a dear friend for offering to sponsor this event😊! Thank you to all those that attended- you've made it truly meaningful!

This was the sweetest thing☺️ Let's hear it for the lil ones in Wheeling who are getting ready and excited for the Holidays!

Join us on Sunday, Sep. 15 at 9:45-10:30 to do a mitzvah for Israel and our hostages.
Wrap Tefilin with the guys and say a prayer for our brothers and sisters in the land of Israel. Lox, bagels and coffee are obviously part of the program!
RSVP by texting TEFILIN to (224) 279-1155

It has been incredibly challenging to find the words to express the immense pain we are all feeling. The tragic events of this weekend have left us reeling. Although this year has brought so much suffering, and as Jews, we are no strangers to such heartache, this loss has been a particularly hard gut punch. The cruel murder of six of our brothers and sisters, who were mere hours away from a miraculous rescue, is devastating.

The overwhelming emotions and uncertainty have made it difficult for me to gather my thoughts and find the right words. In times like these, I find solace in the teachings and guidance of the Rebbe in similar situations.

In the summer of 1974, following a devastating hostage situation in Israel that claimed the lives of 22 Jews, the Rebbe, who felt extremely pained by all Jewish pain, especially in Israel, responded with bringing the the famous Mivtzah campaign to the streets. This campaign brought Jews together in a powerful way, with scenes of Jews asking, "Are you Jewish? Will you do a mitzvah?" becoming commonplace from Manhattan to Paris and college campuses worldwide.

As the women of our community have already planned their pre-high holiday gathering, in the same spirit of unity and strength, I invite the men of our community to come together and put on tefillin. This simple yet profound act honors those we've lost and protects our soldiers and hostages. Tefillin is not just a ritual; it is linked to security and protection, and our collective effort can make a difference.

Join us on Sunday morning, September 15th, from 9:45 AM to 10:30 AM, for a meaningful Tefillin wrapping session. This gathering will not only honor those we've lost but also support our soldiers and hostages. A delicious bagel and lox breakfast will be provided, offering a moment of communal connection and comfort amidst our grief.

Please let me know if you can make it by replying to this email or by texting "TEFILLIN" to 224-279-1155. The location will be shared upon RSVP.

With pain for the lost and hope for the safe return of our hostages and safety of our soldiers,

Rabbi Mendel Shmotkin

P.S. We are dedicating our Friday night dinner culminating Rosh Hashanah to honor the fallen and pray for the soldiers and hostages.

P.P.S. I am exploring teaching a course on the Torah’s timeless wisdom on how Israel can protect its citizens and live safely alongside its neighbors. If this interests you, please let me know.