Thousands of Satmar Hasidim gathered last Thursday for an awakening rally, with the participation of the Rebbe Mahari, at the community's large synagogue in the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn - in light of the situation currently prevailing around the world with the spread of the coronavirus.
The rally commemorated nearly 60 Hasidim who died in the epidemic, especially after they were not properly mourned upon their passing, due to the situation that made this impossible.
After reciting "Kel Mela Rachamim" in memory of those gathered, the Rebbe delivered a wake-up call during which he announced that a Torah scroll would be written in their memory, and that same day, Hasidic activists were appointed to oversee the special project.
Want more news, videos and stories? Join the Haredim 10 WhatsApp channel >>
At the end of his remarks, the Rebbe also addressed the family weddings that are held at his residence with the participation of thousands of Hasidim, and established a new arrangement for them: The weddings will be held in a small format in a simple hall, while for the 'Mitzvah Tanz' ceremony, the Hasidim will gather in the large Beit Midrash of Hasidism, at which time they will be given the opportunity to take part in the joy.
""I married, thank God, my important grandson a few days ago," said the Rebbe. "It was done in a small way, and I feel that the celebration had a special grace and flavor. Nothing was missing; on the contrary, it was a warmer and more heartfelt celebration. With God's help, we will marry more grandchildren and walk the same path. This saves a lot of Torah abrogation and also a lot of money.".
In his speech, the Rebbe also encouraged his followers to hold modest and limited weddings with only relatives in attendance, so that they could save money. He noted that Hasidic activists are constantly working on plans that will allow for the holding of discounted events.
[gallery]
